How do I wear a antique cameo brooch?

Pin the piece securely to the lapel of a tailored jacket, the collar of a blouse, or at the neckline of a heavy knit garment. Ensure the fastening pin catches firmly in the safety clasp. Heavier framed pieces benefit from heavier fabrics that support the weight without pulling or sagging. Position the portrait so the profile faces toward the centre of the outfit.

What is a lava cameo?

Lava cameos are carved from volcanic rock sourced near Naples during the nineteenth century. These pieces typically feature matte, porous surfaces in muted grey, cream or terracotta tones. Carvers utilised this softer material during the Grand Tour period to produce affordable sculptural souvenirs. The resulting portraits often depict classical figures and mythological deities in high relief.

How can I date a carved portrait?

Examine the style of the hair, the clothing and the shape of the metal mount to determine the period. Victorian pieces often feature elaborate gold frames, while earlier Georgian examples display distinct Neoclassical motifs. Hallmarks on the metal mounts provide definitive year markers where present. The thickness of the shell and the depth of the carving also shift across different decades.