Category
General Antiques and Collectibles
Size and dimensions of this item
Length 1.75" Height 1.50"
Long Description
Can anyone tell me what this cameo is worth or any information about it?
I inherited this from my grandmother so it is at least 60 yeras old.
I did the hot pin test and it didn't melt.
I am not sure what is stamped into the pin, I tried magnifying glass but was unsuccesful.
Thanks
For Sale?
No
Re: Cameo
Not an expert, but here are my 2c...
Guessing the vintage is circa 1900-1920. The most common type of "genuine" cameo material back then was sea shell. Less common were those carved from stone - agate, chalcedony or sardonyx. Among the most prized were those cameos carved from stone in the Idar-Oberstein region of Germany - they have quite a history of gem stone and lapidary art there.
Check the cameo closely. If the material is dense with minimal pores/grain, it may be stone. If lighter and more porous/grainy, it is probably shell. Shell cameos often also have curved back sides. If a shell cameo and my guess on vintage is correct, value is likely $50 tops - probably less. If stone of similar vintage - or older, value could be $100 and up. Older is definitely better in terms of value. BTW: The cameo pattern is fairly intricate and attractive.
Mike