Cameo Rings

Cameo jewelry, whether it be antique cameo rings, pendants, brooches, or cufflinks, has a classical elegance that makes it so appealing. The beauty of cameo jewelry, coupled with its historical significance, adds a touch of class to any outfit. Cameos are gemstones engraved in raised relief with images of mythological figures, landscapes, or portraits of women. In jewelry pieces such as bracelets, necklaces, rings, pendants, and bracelets, these intricately carved reliefs are usually set in gold or silver. It has been centuries since cameo carvings became popular art forms. It was common for these highly skilled artists to produce portraits and scenes of political and mythological figures using hardstones, coral, lava, or shell. Cameo jewelry has experienced a resurgence for a variety of reasons, but its significance and extensive history have made it a favorite among jewelry collectors and enthusiasts.

Featuring the rich aesthetics of old-world antiques and high detailing, our antique cameo rings, necklaces, pendants, earrings, charms lockets, and bracelets are timeless classics. Make a lasting impression with our handcrafted cameo jewelry. Discover our range of handmade cameo rings meant to add a touch of elegance to every occasion. With an exquisite collection of intricately carved vintage cameo rings and other jewelry pieces, Bidsquare is the perfect place to find timeless keepsakes that evoke the Victorian aesthetic. In this impressive ensemble of cameos, each piece showcases how brilliant gemstones are transformed into tiny masterpieces by expert craftsmanship. Each relief carving has a story to share and is distinctive as a collectible piece from a bygone era. In addition to collecting cameo rings from a particular era, you may also look for rings with certain colors or carving styles.

Although cameos have been collected for centuries, the 19th century is the best-known era for collecting them, when Queen Victoria and Napoleon Bonaparte became prominent collectors of cameos. During Queen Victoria's reign, deep-sea shells were carved with cameos depicting natural and humanistic scenes. It is common for cameo makers today to use vintage and antique designs from bygone eras, especially those with mythological tales and those featuring anonymous women. The majority of cameo jewelry is crafted from shells, hardstones, or jasperware. There are many different types of shell cameos, including sardonyx shells, conch shells, and mother of pearl. Cameos made of hardstone usually consist of onyx, coral, or agate. Typically, more ornate cameos are made from jasperware ceramics. It is undeniable that cameo jewelry remains a timeless style that has the capacity to transcend eras, as evidenced by the numerous designers who are continually reinterpreting its role in fashion.

Interesting Facts about Cameo Jewelry

·         The Victorian period is typically represented by portrait cameos with straight noses.

·         Before the 1860s, portraits were made with strong, "Roman" noses.

·         Scenes depicting mythology typically originate in the 18th to early 20th centuries

·         Cameos with cute, button-like noses tend to be 21st-century creations