Cameo Definition

Cameo, in the context of antiques, is a piece of jewellery that is generally oval in shape. It consists of a portrait carved in relief on a background, which is of a different color. Cameos are found in different materials and designs. In precious jewelry, high quality materials such as mother-of-pearl, shell, stone, bog oak, coral, ivory, and lava are used to make cameos. In costume jewelry, molded plastic or glass is used. Initially, cameos bore likeness to rulers, scholars, philosophers, or other celebrities of the day. However, by the early 19th century, portraits of anonymous Victorian and Roman woman were seen carved in cameos. Collectors search for jewelry such as Cameo brooch, pendant, bracelet etc. 
 
Log In