A cameo is mostly oval in shape and is usually carved from only one material. It consists of a hand carved image in relief that stands out higher than the background. Many internet sites offer cameos for sale and items like pendants, brooches, earrings, bracelets and rings are all offered. The hand carved older pieces with their intricate craftsmanship usually offer more value than the styles of today.
When choosing one cameo over another, there are several factors to take into consideration. One of these is the quality of the carving. One with exceptionally fine detail is more valuable. A master carver knows just how to carve the agate or section of shell to reveal the colored layers, creating the relief. Incredibly sharp, precise tools with handles that fit the hand of the carver, enable him to produce the most intricate details. Not all modern items made are mass produced and there are still artisans handcrafting these items today, although the majority of modern ones are carved ultrasonically.
These items generally feature portraits of people or nature scenes that include figures, animals, trees and bridges. Portraits of women are most popular but those of men are more valuable as they are scarcer. Many pieces from the Victorian era featured Greek gods and goddesses from mythology. Religious and romantic themes are also found. Those with the most unusual subject matter are most desirable.
Many different types of materials are used with the most common being shell. Those carved from shell often have a rich coral color in the background and become an almost creamy white at the upper surface. Those carved from agate have a rich blue background with a milky white image. The materials used to produce these works of art are hard wearing and durable.
Plastic and other materials are being used today to create imitations. Sometimes these may look quite authentic and unless you have some knowledge, it can be hard to tell the difference. Some understanding of the subject and the use of a reputable supplier can prevent you from making mistakes.
Items without settings may be bought at reasonable prices. Many different settings were used through the ages and the type of setting has some effect on the price. The setting can also help to identify in what era the piece was produced. Sometimes, an exquisitely carved piece in a brass setting may be of more value than a less detailed carved piece in a more costly setting.
The condition is another important consideration as this can make it more or less valuable. Most of the really antique ones have hairlines due to their age. An item with chips or cracks is less valuable than one in pristine condition. Sometimes very small hairline cracks do not matter if the carving is in good condition.
Buying online from internet sites is an easy way to purchase items of this nature. Not only are there many items to choose from but many of the more common items are quite affordable. There are many cameos for sale that are real works of art. Once you have developed an appreciation for these items, collecting them can become an addiction. Just make sure that you know enough about them to distinguish quality in order to get the best value for your money.
When choosing one cameo over another, there are several factors to take into consideration. One of these is the quality of the carving. One with exceptionally fine detail is more valuable. A master carver knows just how to carve the agate or section of shell to reveal the colored layers, creating the relief. Incredibly sharp, precise tools with handles that fit the hand of the carver, enable him to produce the most intricate details. Not all modern items made are mass produced and there are still artisans handcrafting these items today, although the majority of modern ones are carved ultrasonically.
These items generally feature portraits of people or nature scenes that include figures, animals, trees and bridges. Portraits of women are most popular but those of men are more valuable as they are scarcer. Many pieces from the Victorian era featured Greek gods and goddesses from mythology. Religious and romantic themes are also found. Those with the most unusual subject matter are most desirable.
Many different types of materials are used with the most common being shell. Those carved from shell often have a rich coral color in the background and become an almost creamy white at the upper surface. Those carved from agate have a rich blue background with a milky white image. The materials used to produce these works of art are hard wearing and durable.
Plastic and other materials are being used today to create imitations. Sometimes these may look quite authentic and unless you have some knowledge, it can be hard to tell the difference. Some understanding of the subject and the use of a reputable supplier can prevent you from making mistakes.
Items without settings may be bought at reasonable prices. Many different settings were used through the ages and the type of setting has some effect on the price. The setting can also help to identify in what era the piece was produced. Sometimes, an exquisitely carved piece in a brass setting may be of more value than a less detailed carved piece in a more costly setting.
The condition is another important consideration as this can make it more or less valuable. Most of the really antique ones have hairlines due to their age. An item with chips or cracks is less valuable than one in pristine condition. Sometimes very small hairline cracks do not matter if the carving is in good condition.
Buying online from internet sites is an easy way to purchase items of this nature. Not only are there many items to choose from but many of the more common items are quite affordable. There are many cameos for sale that are real works of art. Once you have developed an appreciation for these items, collecting them can become an addiction. Just make sure that you know enough about them to distinguish quality in order to get the best value for your money.
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