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This rare double-cameo collar of lava (probably from Mt. Vesuvius) was carved between 1840 and 1860. Note the spectacular 3D detail of the piece. (Click on the thumbnails below to see enlargements of various views of the cameo.) Both cameos are carved of khaki green lava, which is particularly rare and sought-after. The darker green of the main cameo is an especially valuable color.
The main cameo is set in sterling silver with tourmalines of various colors, and white topaz. It measures 1 1/2" long x 1 1/4" wide, including the stones. The figure projects 1/4" above the surface of the cameo.
The smaller cameo is set in sterling silver and measures 1 1/8" long x 7/8" wide.
The collar is decorated with four champagne pearls set in sterling silver and two sterling silver rings mounted with gemstones. The elaborate ring opposite the secondary cameo is set with 11 tourmaline and white topaz stones on the front side and 11 white topaz stones on the reverse. The ring just above the smaller cameo is set with five tourmaline and golden topaz stones on the front and five white topaz stones on the reverse.
The total length of the necklace is 21 3/4", not including the main cameo.
Closure is a front toggle through a sterling silver ring.
Click on the images below to change the view. |
