An extremely fine Victorian lava cameo, unusually, the cameo depicts a young male. Most Lava Cameos I've seen depict older males. The detail to his face and hair is exquisite; one of the very best lava carvings I have seen. I do not know who the gentleman is, perhaps a scholar.
Originally the cameo was a brooch with a bale without the necklace. After finding this extremely rare antique sterling silver one I decided to remove the c catch pin and hinge and add it to this piece. The cameo is now displayed in all it's splendor.
The cameo is mounted in an unmarked (but tested) silver frame as well as the necklace.
This rare and uncommon gem celebrates the youth and beauty in the human male, young or old.
Necklace is 17.25 inches long and weighs 25.7 grams. Necklace 1910-20. Cameo is circa 1830-50.