XX Fine Museum Grade Large Antique Hardstone Agate Cameo Brooch 15k Gold

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XX Fine Museum Grade Large Antique Hardstone Agate Cameo Brooch 15k Gold :
$2950.00

Offered is a large antique carved agate hardstone cameo brooch. This piece features a high grade agate cameo of a goddes facing left. This cameo is cut in high relief and features 3 lovely layers of the agate. If you examine the photos it will show the wonderful matrix of the stone used, and how the master artist used the bands in the stone to create this work of art. The detail is fine and crisp from the flawless features of the subject\'s face to the curls in her hair and the floral wreath which is attributed to the goddess Flora. Not only is the cameo a work of art, but the finely chiseled gold frame is exquisite as well in elaborate scrolls and bead work. Across the back of the cameo, if held to the light just right, a signature in script is visible but I can\'t make out what it says. The number 1851, which I assume is the date of completion is written below the signature. This piece retain\'s it\'s original t hinge, but has a later replacement safety locking clasp. It has a hook at the bottom to hang a complimentary gem if desired. The condition is very good for the age of this piece, with no damage to the cameo-it is pristine- only some light scratches on the back of the frame and a ding on the back of the frame at 11:00 which may have been incurred during replacement of the clasp. The line you see at 3:00 is not a fracture, it is a natural inclusion internal to the stone. It is not marked, but tests a weak 18k to a strong 14k, so I am guessing the karat is somewhere in between 14 and 18, 15 and 16k was common in Europe. The color is a rich buttery yellow. This is a larger piece measuring 2 1/8\" by 1 3/4\". It weighs 29.1 grams. This is an amazing and rare example fit for any fine collection of antique jewelry. Thank you for looking and please see my other listings for more cameos and vintage jewelry items both fine and costume!