Antique Victorian Whitby Jet Cameo Pendant Necklace, circa 1860

This deeply evocative Victorian mourning pendant is crafted from carved Whitby Jet, renowned for its lightness and mirror-like polish. The oval form is smooth and domed, highly refle...

Welcome to Artisan Antiques based in Mayfair, London - We are delighted to offer this magnificent large antique 18ct gold shell cameo brooch/pendant locket made c.1860, depicting a figurehead of Hera - a Greek mythological goddess of women, marriage and childbirth (also referred to as Juno by the Romans). Its majestic presence, distinguished design and impressive size are immediately captivating even to the untrained eye and whilst undeniably attractive and delightful even at a quick glance, it is upon closer inspection that its true splendour and intricacy can be fully appreciated. The overall design features a whole array of wonderful embellishments and craftsmanship; a profusely decorated frame made from solid 18ct gold is accented with layers of applied gold ribbons/bows, beads and twist-rope borders. What is particularly noteworthy about this frame/border is the fact it has a concave 'doughnut' like shape that contours the cameo whilst also allowing for the spinning locket design to function flawlessly. Upon unfastening the rear pin, the central cameo spins around and presents a locket with a portrait of a gentleman and the fine mechanism and craftsmanship of the central piece can be further appreciated. The portrayal of Hera 'in profile' (side on) is simply splendid with crisp engravings, attractive proportions and an almost lifelike texture/facial expression in the manner of Renaissance sculptures. The reverse side of the brooch reveals a large pin for fastening on to a coat lapel or jumper with an additional later added safety chain. Further, the bail at the top allows for this piece to be worn as a magnificent pendant necklace. All of the combined factors make this cameo brooch a wonderful collectable piece of 19th-century antique jewellery history which would not only make for an excellent display piece but an inimitable and breathtaking brooch to wear on special occasions. Not only would the aesthetic be impressionable, but as a conversation starter, this brooch may serve as the perfect occasion to share your discerning historical/antiques passion...

This is a gorgeous and very rare original Antique 14 Karat Gold Etruscan Revival Victorian - Belle Epoque Necklace of great beauty. The necklace is 18 inches long. The Etruscan jew...

Victorian Mourning Cameo Pendant on Velvet Ribbon Necklace — Hand-Carved Shell Cameo, Whitby Jet Black Frame, c.1880s A hauntingly beautiful example of...

Victorian matt black Whitby Jet lorgnette bead necklace. Composed of small round hand knotted beads, six large elongated kite shape beads flanked by...

This stunning chunky necklace is held together by large bolt clasp. The beads graduate in size, starting large at the centre and the smallest on the outer edges. Length: 58.5cm La...

We are so delighted to offer this gorgeous Belle Epoque - Victorian Citrine Pendant Necklace in 14 Karat Yellow Gold. The magnificent antiqu...

This is a spectacular and very rare monumental antique Art Deco - Victorian - Belle Epoque Lava Cameo Pendant Necklace with a magnificent deeply carved lava cameo of a woman with spectacular flower adornments in her flowing hair. The cameo sets in a silver swivel setting within a circular mount with a garland of flowers at the base set with pearls. The face and hair of the woman are a masterpiece of artistic expression - her face is carved with exquisite detail throughout, her hair is stunning and the flowers in her hair are wonderful! The lava cameo is so very special with its very deep carving and the gorgeous pearl and flower garland...

A magnificent High Victorian pendant crafted in solid 15K gold and showcasing an exceptional onyx hardstone cameo carved in high relief. Dating from circa 1860–1880, this architectur...

Indulge in a very rare antique Victorian Snake Pendant depicting a snake or serpent wrapped around a flower with a Bohemian Garnet center and lovely enamel adornment. The snake pend...