Cameo jewelry and cameos dates back many centuries, but it is uncertain
when the first one was carved. It is believed that the birthplace of the cameo
was nearly 300 B.C. in Egypt. Originally, cameos were carved from stone such
as agate and were meant to depict a moral or certain ethic. It was much later
that cameo jewelry was created from shell. Today, cameo jewelry is produced by
hand carving and ultrasonic carving methods.
Cameo jewelry comes in a variety of sizes and can be displayed
on rings, earrings, pendants or pins. Cameo jewelry is often portrayed as a
woman in profile wearing jewelry in soft tones of ivory, white or pink. Higher
grades allow for finer detail.
Cameo jewelry is delicate and should be treated accordingly.
Regularly dust cameos that are stored in softly, lined boxes away from heat
and light. Cameo jewelry may be washed with warm water. Avoid soap and jewelry
cleaner and make sure to dry with a soft cloth.
