Recently Sold (VR827)

Romanesque - Vintage Victorian Revival 14K Gold Roman Goddess Carved Agate Cameo Ring. This gorgeous ring is crafted from 14K gold, hallmarked 14K. Featuring one genuine natural black and white carved agate cameo, engraved detail,Victorian Revival styling, and high quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this ring showcases a beautifully carved black and white Roman goddess agate cameo, set in an expertly set milgrain decorated bezel. The goddess is white, and has pulled up flowing curly hair adorned by a wreath, and draped clothing. The white goddess looks stunning against the onyx black background. The shoulders of the ring display engraved foliage, which sits between a split shank. The back of the shank is smooth and polished, which allows for a comfortable fit and easy sizing. This vintage ring is dramatic, and exudes character, which resembles early ancient cameo pieces. Truly a great addition to any vintage jewelry collection. 

History: It is known that cameos have existed since Sumerian period (c. 3100 BC) to the decline of Roman civilization, the Renaissance, and the Neoclassical period in the 18th century. In contrast to the intaglios, which were used as seals.

Stone cameos of great artistry were made in Greece dating back as far as the 5th century BC. The Farnese Tazza (a cup) is the oldest major Hellenistic piece surviving.

Hardstone cameos are among the most valuable, but this can mean a lot of things. Basically, hardstone is any type of semi-precious or precious stone that's used for carving - often agate, carnelian, onyx, and quartz. 

Gold was generally used for a couple thousand years solely to create things such as jewelry and idols for worship. This was until around 1500 BC when the ancient empire of Egypt, which benefited greatly from its gold-bearing region, Nubia, made gold the first official medium of exchange for international trade.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 22.00 x 16.00 mm 

Stone Size: Agate Carved Cameo 19.00 mm x 15.00 mm 

Weight: 4.34 grams 

Ring Size: 6 1/2 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1940