This is an intricately hand-carved cameo pendant featuring a high-relief depiction of a cherub or angelic figure. The piece is set in an ornate sterling silver (925 NH) frame, embellished with floral motifs, possibly with gemstone accents. The backside of the pendant features an openwork silver setting, which supports and showcases the natural shell or resin cameo.
Historical Context & Craftsmanship:
Cameo Jewelry has been a cherished art form for centuries, with origins tracing back to Ancient Greece and Rome. The tradition of shell cameos, similar to the one in this pendant, became highly popular during the Victorian era (1837–1901) and remained fashionable through the Edwardian period (1901–1910) and Art Nouveau era.
Material: The cameo appears to be carved from shell, a common material used in authentic vintage and antique cameos.
Setting: The sterling silver setting with delicate floral designs suggests a late Victorian or vintage revival piece, possibly crafted in the mid-to-late 20th century.
Condition & Authenticity:
The carving appears finely detailed and in excellent condition, with no visible signs of major wear or cracks on the front.
The back of the cameo shows natural inclusions and minor age-related wear, which is typical for genuine shell cameos.
The "925 NH" stamp indicates the setting is sterling silver, though further research would be needed to confirm if "NH" refers to a specific maker's mark or regional designation.
The presence of pink floral accents may suggest additional decorative gemstones, possibly synthetic rubies or pink tourmaline.
Estimated Value:
Based on comparable hand-carved shell cameo pendants in sterling silver settings, the estimated value range is:
Vintage & Handmade Modern Cameos: $75 – $200
Antique Victorian Cameos (if verified as older than 100 years): $200 – $500+
Designer Signed Pieces (e.g., marked by a known cameo carver or jeweler): $300 – $800+
Because this piece is unmarked aside from the "925 NH" designation, and the exact age and provenance are unclear, the estimated value is between $100 – $250, assuming it is a vintage (but not antique) piece.
Recommendations for Professional Appraisal:
A jeweler or antique specialist should examine the exact material composition (shell vs. resin) and the origin of the silver setting to verify if it is Victorian or a later reproduction.
If additional hallmarks exist (on the bail or edges of the silver), a specialist could identify the maker and date.
If intended for resale, getting a formal appraisal from an antique jewelry expert could ensure a more precise valuation, especially if selling at an auction or vintage jewelry boutique.
Selling & Marketability:
This piece is highly collectible, particularly among cameo jewelry enthusiasts. For the best return, consider:
Listing on Etsy, Ruby Lane, or eBay in the antique or vintage jewelry category.
Providing high-resolution images and emphasizing the hand-carved craftsmanship.
If gemstone accents are confirmed as natural stones, including that in the listing could increase its value.
Conclusion:
This is a beautiful, hand-carved cameo pendant in sterling silver, likely from the mid-to-late 20th century. It has great decorative and collectible appeal, with a current estimated value between $100 – $250, depending on market demand and verification of its materials. If verified as a genuine antique, its value could significantly increase.
Hand-Carved Cameo Pendant (Sterling Silver 925 NH)
Item Description:
This is an intricately hand-carved cameo pendant featuring a high-relief depiction of a cherub or angelic figure. The piece is set in an ornate sterling silver (925 NH) frame, embellished with floral motifs, possibly with gemstone accents. The backside of the pendant features an openwork silver setting, which supports and showcases the natural shell or resin cameo.
Historical Context & Craftsmanship:
Condition & Authenticity:
Estimated Value:
Based on comparable hand-carved shell cameo pendants in sterling silver settings, the estimated value range is:
Because this piece is unmarked aside from the "925 NH" designation, and the exact age and provenance are unclear, the estimated value is between $100 – $250, assuming it is a vintage (but not antique) piece.
Recommendations for Professional Appraisal:
Selling & Marketability:
This piece is highly collectible, particularly among cameo jewelry enthusiasts. For the best return, consider:
Conclusion:
This is a beautiful, hand-carved cameo pendant in sterling silver, likely from the mid-to-late 20th century. It has great decorative and collectible appeal, with a current estimated value between $100 – $250, depending on market demand and verification of its materials. If verified as a genuine antique, its value could significantly increase.