Antique Cameos & Antique Cameo Jewelry

A Cameo Primer

The original definition of a cameo is described as "a carving in relief on a naturally occurring substance which contains different colored layers. The carving must incorporate the contrasting layers in different aspects of the design; most commonly by differentiating between the background and the foreground. The carvings must be done by hand". ( 1, pp. 2-3 ). According to the free dictionary (on-line) the definition includes "a medallion with a profile cut in raised relief".

Today's definition of cameos includes intaglios as well.

Below are examples of cameo jewelry, including some rare and superb antique cameos and antique cameo jewelry, including antique cameo pins and brooches, antique cameo earrings, antique cameo pendants, antique cameo rings, and antique cameo stickpins.