{"title":"Antique Cameo Rings \u0026 Jewellery","description":"\u003cp\u003eCameos are carved in raised relief, the opposite of an intaglio. Our antique cameo rings and jewels range from Roman Medusa cameos and Renaissance portrait heads to Georgian and Victorian hardstone, shell and coral cameos of gods, emperors and philosophers. Many were worn as signet rings.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"antique-french-18k-gold-amethyst-cameo-ring-19th-century-carved-engraved-ancient-classical-roman-figure","title":"French 19th Century Amethyst Cameo Ring","description":"This charming antique cameo ring was made in France in the second half of the 19th century. An amethyst is finely carved creating a relief effect where the bust rises from the ground. It depicts a classical figure of antiquity, possibly an emperor or philosopher. The intaglio may be a century or two older than the ring. The openwork band is crafted in 18K gold and features a twisting scrolled motif at the shoulder which terminates in a grooved shank.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUK size M 1\/2, US size 6.5\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e3.35g 18K gold \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrench ‘tête d’aigle’ mark present (eagle head) indicating 18K gold. Makers lozenge mark also present. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCameo measures 16mm on its longest axis.\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954287595828,"sku":"","price":950.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/products\/il_fullxfull.4614257493_g5kg.jpg?v=1698956315"},{"product_id":"antique-french-18k-gold-hardstone-cameo-ring-ajax-the-great-god-of-war-warror-gladiator-intaglio-bust-ring-signet-ring","title":"Antique French Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis exceptional French antique cameo ring, dating to around 1900, features a finely carved hardstone agate cameo depicting Ajax the Great, a legendary Greek warrior of the Trojan War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe layered agate is expertly cut from a single piece, creating a striking bi-colour effect that enhances the depth and realism of the carving.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn Greek mythology, Ajax was renowned for his immense strength and unwavering courage. A formidable fighter, he was trained by the wise centaur Chiron alongside Achilles and played a pivotal role in Homeric legend. The craftsmanship of this ring reflects the enduring admiration for classical antiquity that influenced European jewellery at the turn of the 20th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eCrafted in solid 18K gold, the ring is marked with a French lozenge maker's mark, possibly for Benjamin Rousseau or B. Roux (both active c. 1899). It also bears the French \u003ci\u003eTête de cheval\u003c\/i\u003e (horse’s head) hallmark, confirming its 18K gold composition and manufacture between 1838 and 1919.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe ring remains in excellent condition, a testament to its careful preservation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"ul1\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003eUK Size:\u003c\/b\u003e Q½ | \u003cb\u003eUS Size:\u003c\/b\u003e 8.25\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003eWeight:\u003c\/b\u003e 8.16g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003eBand Width:\u003c\/b\u003e 6mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"li1\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003eBezel Dimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e 24mm x 18mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954320691508,"sku":"","price":900.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/Ravensbury32.jpg?v=1776777831"},{"product_id":"antique-italian-18th-century-georgian-gold-cameo-ring-bust-of-medusa-hardstone-agate-carved-cameo","title":"Italian 18th Century Medusa Cameo Ring","description":"A gorgeous 18th century Italian hardstone cameo ring. This beautiful four layered sardonyx cameo is carved from a single piece of agate with immense skill to reveal the bust of the Gorgon Medusa in classical style. Classical and Hellenistic depictions of Medusa are much more human than the ones we may know today with her sharp teeth and gaping mouth. These classical depictions, although much less monstrous, still retain a sense of the supernatural with subtle details such as a winged head and long snake-like hair. See the penultimate slide for examples of 18th century copperplate engravings of Medusa cameo carvings from notable collections. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe master carver cleverly uses each of the stone’s four differently coloured layers to fill various parts of the portrait. The topmost, a bright orange layer with red splatters, is used for the sinuous red hair which drapes down the shoulders. A lighter and more opaque white layer is carved underneath which softly frames the face. The background is a highly unusual yet beautifully contrasting blue colour whilst the final layer, a deep black, is only visible on the underside of the ring. The mount is crafted in 21K gold and is of typical late 18th century Georgian form. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUK size M 1\/2, US size 6.5\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe ring weighs 4.79g and the gold tests as 21K. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe oval face measures 22mm x 17mm. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSimilar examples can be found in The British Museum (no. 1867,0507.706) as well as in The Royal Collection Trust (inventory no. RCIN: 65183, 65181, 65194). See the final slide for photos of these examples.\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954328850740,"sku":"","price":4250.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/products\/il_fullxfull.4936373947_8t9p.jpg?v=1698956659"},{"product_id":"antique-victorian-coral-cameo-conversion-set-in-a-contemporary-designer-sterling-silver-ring-orange-mediterranean-silver-coral-ring","title":"Victorian Coral Cameo Conversion Ring","description":"Antique Victorian Coral Cameo Set in a Contemporary Silver Ring\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis beautifully crafted custom piece demonstrates a unique contrast between the old and new. The ring is set with a rare antique 19th century Victorian coral stickpin cameo and repurposed it into contemporary design. The coral cameo is bezel set in a handcrafted textured silver band with a unique molten silver effect. The band is open-ended and malleable which means it can be adjusted to fit whatever finger you desire!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVictorian coral cameos are quite scarce these days and their surging demand has made them a difficult find for collectors! This particular piece probably originated as a Victorian stickpin or tie pin and would have been made in Italy.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCurrently UK size T (9 1\/2 US) but can be adjusted to many sizes \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e8.42g sterling silver, makers mark present!\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954341859636,"sku":"","price":275.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/products\/il_fullxfull.3772306319_hkd3.jpg?v=1698956797"},{"product_id":"antique-french-18k-gold-and-silver-engraved-intaglio-ring-cameo-philosopher-engraved-engraving-georgian-victorian-ring-montesquieu","title":"French 19th Century Philosopher Cameo Ring","description":"Antique French 18K Gold and Silver Engraved Intaglio Ring\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA superb, French antique intaglio ring dating to the early 19th century. The oval bezel is set with a silver plaque which has been masterly engraved. It appears to depict the great French political philosopher of the Enlightment, Montesquieu (Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de La Brède and Montesquieu). He was best known for ‘The Spirit of Laws’ (1748), one of the most renowned works in the history of political theory and of jurisprudence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe level of detail in the engraving is particularly impressive, with a fantastic juxtaposition between the softness of the facial features and the clarity of the curls of the hair.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe silver plaque is set in a grooved oval bezel which adjoins to a plain flat band.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntique French hallmark indicates .750 gold (18K)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUK size Q 1\/4, US size 8\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e4.84g 18K rose gold\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIntaglio measures 17mm x 11mm\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954402119988,"sku":"","price":1115.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/products\/il_fullxfull.3793497242_rsxx.jpg?v=1698957299"},{"product_id":"antique-italian-early-19th-century-cameo-pendant-circle-of-nicolo-morelli-bust-of-a-bacchante-four-layer-agate-hardstone-carving","title":"Early 19th Century Italian Agate Cameo Pendant","description":"A stunning early 19th century Italian hardstone cameo pendant, probably circle of Nicola Morelli. This beautiful four layered agate is carved from one stone with great skill to reveal the bust of a Bacchante. The carver cleverly uses each of the stone’s four layers to highlight different aspects of the image. The topmost being a darker brown used for the stola draping over the shoulder as well as the vine leaves wreath. A lighter and more translucent brown hue is seen on the curled locks which roll down the neck. The exquisitely smooth skin in third layer is an opaque white colour with hints of blue seen in the transition between layers, which contrasts with the dark brown final layer in the background. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA ‘Bacchante’ is a term used to describe a female follower of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine and fertility. Often depicted as a beautiful young woman wearing a garland of grapes and vine leaves in her hair, they were commonly featured in cameos, brooches, and other forms of jewellery of the Georgian and Victorian eras.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe gold mount is crafted in 14K gold and the pendant bail was a later addition. The pendant measures 3.3 cm x 2.6cm and weighs a total of 8.81g. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis superb glyptic cameo clearly relates to the virtuoso carvings of bacchantes (maenads) and other Dionysiac figures by the celebrated Roman engraver Nicolo Morelli (Italian, 1771–1838) and his student, Benedetto Pistrucci (see final photo). Compare, for example, with the cameo by Morelli the British Museum (inventory no. 1978,1002.254), as well as Bonham’s (December 2016, lot 121 - £7500) and Sotheby’s (Small Wonders: Early Gems and Jewels - lot 42, 82). The quality of the present cameo is high and there is the possibility that it could come from Morelli's workshop. Similar examples have been attributed to Nicola Morelli (Italian, 1771–1838), and can be found in the British Museum (inventory no. 1978,1002.254), as well as Bonham’s (December 2016, lot 121) and Sotheby’s (Small Wonders: Early Gems and Jewels - lot 42, 82).\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954417520948,"sku":"","price":2200.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/products\/il_fullxfull.4843352349_fno3.jpg?v=1698957440"},{"product_id":"large-18k-gold-vintage-french-1960-s-frosted-glass-cameo-ring-renaissance-revival-shoulders-enamelled-chased-heavy-gold-signet","title":"Vintage French Glass Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eA bold vintage cameo ring made in Paris: an orange pâte de verre cameo of a classical woman, set in a heavy 29 grams of 18K gold.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003ePâte de verre is moulded glass paste. This cameo is frosted on the front and faceted underneath, and shows a woman in classical style wearing a wreath of flowers and grapes.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe head sits on an openwork gallery of black-enamelled circles. Each shoulder carries a black and white enamelled flower, with chased crosshatching in the Renaissance manner.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eA large, confident statement ring with real weight on the hand.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e vintage; Paris, France; French hallmarked 18K gold; glass cameo 32mm x 23mm; band 4mm at the back; UK Q, US 8½; 29g.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Please ask for a detailed condition report.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954455531828,"sku":"","price":2400.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/DSC_9736.jpg?v=1777148842"},{"product_id":"scarce-renaissance-italian-cameo-ring-17th-century-of-emperor-hadrian-18k-gold-signet-large-ring-gem-carving-glyptics","title":"Italian Renaissance 'Hadrian' Cameo Ring","description":"A rare 17th century Italian hardstone cameo set in a later high karat gold signet mount. This beautiful creamy-brown layered cameo is carved from a single piece of jasper to reveal the portrait of the emperor Hadrian in classical style. The effigy of the roman emperor faces to the right and presents the laureated head. The carving is typical of Renaissance production and is taken from the prototypes of classic roman coins. The face is framed by a moustache and finely curled beard and the iris of the eye is incised and turned upwards. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDuring the Renaissance, a time of heightened intellectual curiosity, there was a revival of classical antiquity - the study of Latin and Greek, and collecting everything connected to earlier Greek and Roman civilisations. The collecting of engraved gems became very fashionable, and cameos attracted collectors more than intaglios. However the demand was high, and the quantity of antique cameos available was not sufficient, which ultimately led to gem engravers of the Renaissance period creating their own cameos with classical mythological and heroic pictures from ancient gems, coins and sculptures. Like the present cameo, many of the Renaissance gem engravers also signed their works in Latin or Greek. See the final photo for similar examples of late 16th and early 17th century portrait cameos in museum collections. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn this example, the engraver cleverly uses each of the stone’s differently coloured layers to fill various parts of the portrait. The outermost, a dark brown layer is used for the laurel wreath which indicates that the sitter is an emperor. A lighter matte stone hued layer is revealed underneath which softly frames the face, hair and beard whist the background repeats the topmost layer of dark waxy, brown. The cameo is signed with the makers signature in Greek lettering, ‘IHX∆’. The 18K gold mount was added later and takes the form of late 18th century Georgian ring mounts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHadrian was an emperor of the Roman Empire from the years 117-138 CE. He was a powerful ruler committed to strengthening the Empire. Hadrian oversaw several important building projects, including the Temple of Venus and Roma as well as Hadrian's Wall in Northern Britain. He is also remembered for his love affair with the Bithynian youth Antinous (l. c. 110-130 CE) whom he deified after the young man’s death, resulting in the popular cult of Antinous which, early on, rivalled Christianity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUK size Q 1\/2, US size 8.25\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe ring weighs an impressive 21.8g. The oval bezel measures 32mm x 26mm. The cameo protrudes 5mm from its base.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKey for museum references (final photo):\u2028\u2028 1. Sothebys - Italian 16th-17th century cameo of an emperor\u003cbr\u003e2. Museum of Fine Arts Budapest - Antique Cameo of Emperor (52.233)\u003cbr\u003e3. Bertolami Fine Arts - Roman Cameo of the Emperor Hadrian (Auction 66 - Part 2 - Lot 493)\u003cbr\u003e4. British Museum - 16th century Italian cameo of Aflonso I de Este (1890,0901.20)\u003cbr\u003e5. Our 17th century Hadrian cameo for comparison\u003cbr\u003e6. British Museum - 16th century cameo of a woman (1859,0301.98)\u003cbr\u003e7. The Hermitage Museum - 17th century cameo of Hadrian (К-3336)\u003cbr\u003e8. The Hermitage Museum- 18th century cameo of warrior (К-6748)\u003cbr\u003e9. The Hermitage Museum - 16th century Italian cameo of a philosopher (К-3901)\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954511368500,"sku":"","price":8000.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/products\/il_fullxfull.5075382649_s8lg.jpg?v=1698958263"},{"product_id":"antique-gold-cameo-ring-greek-theatre-mask-silenus-hardstone-intaglio-signet-ring-god-of-wine-drunkeness-unusual-18k","title":"Georgian Hardstone Mask Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eA carved theatrical mask of Silenus, the drunken sage of Dionysus’s retinue, cut in brown and white hardstone around 1800 and later set in 18K French gold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eSilenus was the oldest of Dionysus’s followers. He was traditionally the god’s tutor, almost always drunk, and usually propped up by satyrs or slumped on a donkey. Yet the Greeks credited him with profound wisdom: when intoxicated, or captured, he could be made to prophesy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eHe was pictured as a jovial old man, bald but bearded, pot-bellied, with a snub nose and heavy lips. Theatre masks pushed those features to caricature. In Greek drama, a mask (\u003cem\u003eprosopon\u003c\/em\u003e) let one actor play several roles, including roles of the other sex, and made each character legible from the back rows. Silenus belonged above all to the satyr play, the bawdy coda performed after a cycle of tragedies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThe cameo is probably Italian, from the Grand Tour period, when engraved and carved theatre masks were sought after by travellers returning from Rome and Naples. The carver has used the layers of the stone to set the pale face against a darker ground, giving the furrowed brow and broad grin real depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThe ring is later, from the late 19th century. It bears the French eagle’s head control mark for 18K gold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThe cameo sits 5 mm proud of the finger, a bold, witty piece for anyone who collects classical or Bacchic imagery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cameo c.1800; mount late 19th century\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cameo probably Italian; mount French\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStone:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carved brown and white hardstone cameo, agate \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCameo dimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20 × 15 mm; height above finger 5 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMetal:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18ct gold, French eagle’s head control mark\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4.84 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRing size:\u003c\/strong\u003e UK N½, US 6¾\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Good overall. Possible old chip to the tip of the nose. Some claws secured to the stone with adhesive for added stability, as shown in the photographs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46954519724340,"sku":"","price":1150.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/DSC_1540.jpg?v=1793040363"},{"product_id":"victorian-hardstone-cameo-emperor-signet","title":"Victorian Hardstone Cameo Emperor Signet","description":"Antique gold cameo ring dating from the late 19th to early 20th century Victorian period, circa 1900. The two-layered agate is intricately relief carved from one single stone to reveal the bust of a Roman emperor in the white layer, rising from the dark black-blue second layer of the stone. The emperor is wearing a laurel wreath and possibly depicts Gaius Julius Ceasar. He was a renowned general, politician and scholar in ancient Rome who conquered the vast region of Gaul and helped initiate the end of the Roman Republic when he became dictator of the Roman Empire. Despite his brilliant military prowess, his political skills and his popularity with Rome’s lower- and middle-class, his rule was cut short when opponents — threatened by his rising power — brutally assassinated him.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe ring is crafted in 9K gold and the trumpeting shoulders taper down towards the back of the band. The cameo measures 13mm x 9mm x 4mm.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUK size N 1\/2, US size 7\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe ring weighs 3.72 grams and is stamped for 9ct gold.","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47058229526836,"sku":"","price":350.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A7917.jpg?v=1699092280"},{"product_id":"untitled-jun17_17-16","title":"Victorian Cameo Cluster Ring","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eA stunning French late 19th century hardstone cameo ring, crafted in 18K gold, circa 1880. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis beautiful agate is carved from a single stone with great skill to reveal the figure of a Goddess or muse in neoclassical style. The carver cleverly uses each of the stone’s coloured layers to highlight the foreground and background. The young finure is depicted facing away with a stola draping over the shoulder.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe cameo is bordered by a halo of 32 rose cut diamonds in open-backed settings. The underside of the bezel features a delicate open gallery which takes the form of crescent motifs. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe gold mount is stamped with a French control mark to indicate a gold fineness of 18K. The ring is in very good overall condition despite its significant age. There is evidence of a historic resizing on the band. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eUK size M,\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eUS size 6.25\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThe ring weighs 4.5 grams. The cameo measures 20mm x 10mm (bezel is 24mm x 14mm), and each rose cut diamond has a diameter of 1mm.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48023289823540,"sku":"","price":1350.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/040B821C-71AB-45FD-9772-DBF648EA234F.jpg?v=1718719259"},{"product_id":"untitled-jun26_16-53","title":"Antique Hope Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eA 19th century hardstone cameo ring, crafted in 9K gold, circa 1860. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis beautiful agate is carved from a single\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003estone with great skill to reveal the symbolic classical female figure representing ‘Hope' in neoclassical style. The carver cleverly uses each of the stone’s coloured layers to highlight the foreground and background. The young Goddess is depicted leaning on an anchor looking longingly into the distance, wearing a stola draping over the shoulder.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe gold mount is stamped with a French import control mark to indicate a gold fineness of 9K. The ring is in good overall condition despite its significant age. There is evidence of a historic resizing on the band. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eUK size P,\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eUS size 7.75\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe ring weighs 5.04 grams. The bezel measures 18mm x 12mm. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48038034997556,"sku":"","price":650.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/EEB3166B-48B8-4345-80DD-3CC8BFD01258.jpg?v=1719432698"},{"product_id":"wilhelm-schmidt-opal-cameo","title":"Wilhelm Schmidt Opal Cameo","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA scarce 19th century gold and carved boulder opal matrix cameo ring, attributed to Wilhelm Schmidt. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis superb antique ring dates from the late Victorian period, circa 1900. The ring carries Austrian hallmarks for 14K gold and the city mark for Vienna. This opal cameo carving is attributed to Wilhelm Schmidt (1845-1938), a Victorian German cameo carver who became world-famous for his pioneering work with carved opal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn 1874, Schmidt invented a novel technique of cutting opal cameos. Instead of carving the whole cameo from precious opal, he decided to used the matrix of the opal (the dark brown part of this cameo) for the background, in a similar way to which cameos are carved with agate. The first of these opal cameos were exhibited at the Paris Exhibition in 1878 and his works currently reside in museums and notable collections across the world. Please see our final photo for referenced examples of Wilhelm Schmidt cameos in museum collections and those rare parallels which have been sold at auction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis boulder opal matrix cameo is a fantastic specimen, finely carved to depict the bust of an idealised romantic hero of Greek or Roman mythology in neoclassical style. The foreground utilises the precious opal layer with neon green and blue flashes to highlight the long curly hair, whilst the background layer is the earthy brown matrix and is used for the face in typical Schmidt fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe gold ring was created slightly later to house the precious carving. The ring maker’s mark ‘IK’ is also present on the ring, as well as the hallmark for Vienna and 14K gold. The cameo is held in position by seven claws, the shoulders decorated with floral and granulated motifs. Both the ring and cameo remain in excellent condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eUK size Q 1\/2, US size 8.5\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe ring weighs 4.96 grams in total, and the boulder opal itself measures 16mm x 11mm x 4mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSchmidt never signed his work and the cameos he produced for jewellery shops and dealers were never credited to him. Examples, attributed by Seidmann, are in the collections of the Natural History Museum, London, the British Museum and the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48111522382132,"sku":"","price":8500.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A9714_2024-07-24T18_11_51.422Z.png?v=1721844716"},{"product_id":"ancient-roman-medusa-cameo-ring","title":"Ancient Roman Medusa Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eA small ancient Roman gold ring of the 2nd to 3rd century AD, set with an onyx cameo of Medusa.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe white layered onyx is carved with Medusa's head, her hair a crosshatch of snakes. One of the three Gorgons of Greek myth, she turned to stone anyone who met her gaze. Her image, the Gorgoneion, was believed to protect, and from the Hellenistic period it appeared everywhere, from tombs and buildings to weapons, earrings and rings. Roman women wore it as an amulet against unwanted glances, and in myth it was worn by Athena on her aegis, and by Zeus.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eComparable Medusa cameos and this ring type are in the British Museum, the Met and the Alice and Louis Koch collection (items 307, 358, 362, 364 and 395); see the final photos.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe cameo sits in its original mount of thick, hammered high-karat gold with a conical bezel. Very small, it is a ring for a collector of over 1800 years of history.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2nd–3rd century AD; Roman; unmarked, tests as high-karat gold (21K); onyx cameo 8mm x 7mm x 5mm; UK C½, US 1½ (very small, internal diameter 14mm).\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Somewhat fragile given its age and construction, so not recommended for regular wear.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48134979486004,"sku":"","price":4750.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A9959.jpg?v=1722941971"},{"product_id":"french-hercules-cameo-ring","title":"French Hercules Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis antique gold cameo ring was made in France, circa 1900.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIt depicts the bust of Hercules wearing the skin of the Nemean Lion on his head, one of the most famous beasts of Greek mythology. The man-eating lion had an impenetrable skin and claws that could cut through armour. It terrorised the citizens of Nemea for years until it was encountered by the Greek hero Hercules who slew the lion and wore its pelt on his head. The agate stone is cleverly carved from one piece of gemstone, so that the white bust rises from the more translucent dark red base, the surrounding layer having been intricately cut away. It has been set in a smooth, 18K signet mount.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eUK ring size N 1\/2, US size 7\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe ring weighs 6.95 grams, it is stamped with the French ’tête dangle’ (eagle head) hallmark indicating Paris and 18K gold. There is a makers lozenge mark also present. The ring and cameo remain in great condition despite their significant age, there are no surface scratches to the gemstone and it is set very securely in the gold mount. The cameo carving measures 14mm in diameter, and the band measures 3mm across at the back.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48225699791156,"sku":"","price":1500.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A1291-2.jpg?v=1726588454"},{"product_id":"antique-french-gold-carnelian-cameo-locket-c-1890-1900","title":"Antique Carnelian Cameo Locket","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eAn elegant French locket crafted in 18K gold, dating from the late 19th century. The front features a finely carved cameo of a classical woman with curly hair, set against layers of carnelian to create contrast and depth. The reverse remains unengraved.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eOpening to reveal a hidden compartment, the locket retains a vintage photograph of a gentleman, placed by a previous owner. The current photograph can be replaced with one of your own. Such lockets were treasured as sentimental keepsakes, preserving personal memories in a discreet yet stylish form.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eStamped with the French eagle’s head hallmark for 18K gold, confirming its origin. The gold has been tested to verify its fineness.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt measures 2.7 x 2 x 0.7 cm and weighs 7.7 grams.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eA finely preserved piece of late 19th-century craftsmanship, embodying the tradition of wearable portraiture in the Belle Époque era.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48500370669876,"sku":"1017810015","price":485.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A3773.jpg?v=1741704093"},{"product_id":"antique-georgian-gold-cameo-ring-with-a-17th-century-renaissance-cameo","title":"Georgian Renaissance Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eA Georgian gold ring of about 1820, set with a much older cameo carved in the late 16th or early 17th century.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe tiny cameo shows a finely carved profile. It sits in a scalloped, enamelled bezel in the style of 17th-century rings, as though the goldsmith chose to honour the age of the stone. One side of the bezel deliberately overhangs, as the enamelling shows.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe shoulders are worked in repoussé (raised from behind) with acanthus leaves, leading to a fluted shank typical of the early 19th century. The ring came in a box from Parkes \u0026amp; Co. of 12 Vigo Street, Regent Street, a London firm of jewellers and silversmiths established in 1777, so it was probably sold through them.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eIt is unmarked but tests as 14K gold, which may point to German or Dutch manufacture. Two periods of craftsmanship in one small ring.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e ring c.1820, cameo late 16th to early 17th century; possibly German or Dutch; unmarked, tests as 14K gold; cameo 6mm x 5mm; bezel 7mm x 9mm, standing 4mm; UK N, US 6¾.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent, with the enamel well preserved.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48503366058292,"sku":"1017810018","price":2250.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A3727-2.jpg?v=1741868497"},{"product_id":"antique-fluorite-cameo-pendant-in-gold-mount-late-19th-early-20th-century","title":"Antique Fluorite Cameo Pendant","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eAn unusual antique carved green fluorite cameo pendant (approx. 30cts), finely worked in high relief and depicting a Classical female bust in Roman style. The carving is executed in natural fluorite - a mineral rarely used for such intricate work - and would have required considerable skill and bravery from the lapidary. The stone displays distinctive natural colour zoning, with bands of pale and deep green intersected by a milky white streak that runs delicately across the figure’s eyes.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eThe cameo is set in a simple, elegant gold mount of later date, likely mid-20th century, which complements the earlier carving, which probably dates from the 19th century. Tested as 18K gold, the pendant has a fine weight of 9.85 grams and measures 3 centimetres in height (3.5 centimetres including the bail), 2 centimetres in width, and 1 centimetre in depth.\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv\u003eFrom the reverse, a small loss can be seen at one corner of the stone, though this is barely visible from the front and does not detract from the pendant’s appearance. The cameo itself is antique, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century, and remains a rare survival in such a fragile material. Tested by the Gemological Certification Services (GCS) as natural fluorite, this pendant is a distinctive and tactile piece that bridges antique craftsmanship and mid-century design.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48917695267124,"sku":"1017810162","price":1100.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/0G2A5229.jpg?v=1760465826"},{"product_id":"antique-gold-ring-with-17th-century-italian-renaissance-cameo-of-athena-minerva","title":"Athena Renaissance Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eA rare and important antique gold ring, set with a finely carved Italian Renaissance sardonyx cameo dating to the 17th century, depicting Athena, known as Minerva in Roman mythology. Athena was revered as the goddess of wisdom, strategy, and just warfare; a divine protector of cities and civilisation, frequently shown in armour with helmet and aegis as a symbol of intellect allied with strength.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe cameo is expertly carved from layered hardstone sardonyx, with the engraver working precisely between the natural strata of the agate to achieve a striking contrast between the pale relief bust and the warm brown ground beneath. The subject is shown in profile, wearing a richly detailed helmet adorned with the face of a bearded, horned satyr, her long hair flowing beneath. The chest plate is rendered with remarkable clarity and includes a finely articulated rosette motif. The carving displays an exceptional balance of softness and precision; the flesh is subtly modelled while the armour and helmet remain sharply defined. Such refinement and control are seldom encountered in cameos of this period.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe carved gemstone is set into a later solid 18K gold mount, designed in the manner of late 18th-century signet rings c.1780, with distinctive C-scroll shoulders and a domed, engraved underside. Although the mount is of later date, it was made consciously in this classical style and complements the cameo beautifully. The ring bears the French eagle head hallmark, indicating 18K gold and Parisian manufacture of the setting.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe ring weighs 9.61 grams and is UK size M; US size 6.25. The cameo measures 18 × 13mm. Condition is excellent overall; under magnification there is possibly a minute nick to the tip of the nose, hardly visible to the naked eye. Cameos of this age are exceptionally scarce, and survivors often show significant cracking or losses; examples of this quality are increasingly difficult to find.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eA museum-quality example of Renaissance glyptic art, and among the finest cameo signet rings of its type we have handled.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49008212345140,"sku":"1017810248","price":6000.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/DSC_1393_18ed8d27-1eb9-49a5-bb9d-ffe22a1f6511.jpg?v=1793040630"},{"product_id":"roman-tyche-cameo-ring","title":"Roman Tyche Cameo Ring","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eA Late Roman onyx cameo inscribed ΤΥΧΗ, ‘Fortune’, of the 3rd to 5th century AD, set in a 19th-century gold ring.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eInscription cameos like this were popular across the Late Roman world. They carried short Greek words of greeting, love or good fortune, and were given and worn as tokens. Tyche was the goddess of fortune, so this little stone is, in effect, a wish for good luck that has lasted some sixteen centuries.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe carver worked with the stone’s two natural layers: the letters stand in white relief, and the rest of the white layer was cut away to reveal the dark layer beneath. The letter that looks like a ‘V’ is the Greek upsilon, so the word reads ΤΥΧΗ.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe plain gold mount was made in the 19th century, when collectors set ancient gems as rings to wear. Minimal and almost modern in feel, it makes a perfect little-finger ring.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDetails:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cameo Late Roman, 3rd–5th century AD; mount 19th century; two-layer onyx; 18K gold, unmarked; face 0.9 × 0.6 cm; 3.11g; UK H, US 3¾. For the type, see M. Henig, \u003cem\u003eThe Content Cameos\u003c\/em\u003e (Oxford, 1990), nos. 27–56.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Evidence of resizing at the back of the band.\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Ravensbury Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49388573557044,"sku":null,"price":4890.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0708\/6784\/5428\/files\/t-01-b.jpg?v=1794601856"}],"url":"https:\/\/ravensburyantiques.com\/en-hk\/collections\/antique-cameo-rings.oembed","provider":"Ravensbury Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}