A cameo is a small scene or figure carved in relief. This modern Italian word, meaning to engrave, is thought to have come from the ancient Arabic word khamea, meaning amulet. Folklore relates cameos mystic capacity to attract health and good fortune.

What does a cameo necklace mean?

A cameo is a piece of shell, coral, or gemstone that is often hand-carved with a design or figure that is raised above the background layer. Cameos often depict a profile of a face, nature, animals,or mythological creatures. These carvings or paintings are then set in gold or silver to wear as a pendant, ring or pin.

How can you tell real cameo jewelry?

0:342:07How to tell if a cameo is real? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIts lighter in weight the back is totally flat. And you can tell that shes been poured from a moldMoreIts lighter in weight the back is totally flat. And you can tell that shes been poured from a mold. The metal is not even sterling silver. Its just a costume piece.

Are cameos worth anything?

What Is a Cameo? A cameo is a material that is carved with a raised relief that often depicts a profile of a face or a mythical scene. Cheaper costume jewelry cameos exist, and these are set in a base metal and made out of a molded plastic, glass, or resin. These are not hand-carved and are not worth a lot of money.

What are cameos used for?

Cameos, or carved profile portraits, have been used as decorative accessories since Ancient Rome. However, they made a huge comeback during the Victorian period, and they are still popular among many jewelry enthusiasts. A cameo is a hard stone or precious gemstone—often agate or onyx — onto which reliefs are carved.

How do you value a cameo?

The key to appraising a cameo is identifying what the cameo is made out of. Ideally, the cameo is made out of shell, coral, stone, or lava. Shell cameos are typically made out of conch shell and have an orangish-pink background with a white or cream foreground.