Victorian Hardstone Cameo Brooch and Pendant | 18ct Gold, Rose-Cut Diamonds Natural Pearls Circa 1880

A refined and highly collectible Victorian jewel, created in the late 19th century and preserved in remarkable condition. This exceptional piece is crafted in solid 18ct gold and centred with a fully hand-carved hardstone cameo, framed by antique rose-cut diamonds and natural pearls.

The cameo depicts a classical female figure rendered with delicate depth and flowing movement — a poetic expression of Victorian artistry and craftsmanship.

Designed as a convertible jewel, it may be worn either as a brooch or as a pendant, making it both versatile and timeless.

Details

Era
Victorian, circa 1880

Materials
18ct gold (professionally tested)
Natural hardstone cameo
Antique rose-cut diamonds
Natural pearls

Weight
36.40 g

Dimensions
Overall: 8.8 × 3.6 × 1.3 cm
Cameo: approx. 2.9 × 2.2 cm

Condition
Excellent antique condition.
The cameo carving remains crisp and beautifully preserved. Diamonds are bright and lively, and the pearls retain a soft, natural lustre. All elements are original and intact.

Photo Compartment — A Victorian Sentimental Jewel

The reverse of the jewel features an original Victorian photo and hair compartment, designed to hold a miniature portrait, a lock of hair, or a personal memento.
This type of construction is characteristic of 19th-century British sentimental and mourning jewellery, where precious jewels were used to preserve memory, affection and emotional connection.

Such pieces were worn close to the heart, making them both deeply personal and artistically refined.

Craftsmanship

The hardstone cameo was carved entirely by hand, most likely in Italy, and later mounted in England — a tradition known as Anglo-Italian cameo jewellery, combining Italian carving mastery with British goldsmithing and gemstone setting.

The gold mount is decorated with fine scrolling and bead-set antique diamonds, creating a luminous frame around the cameo.

The original convertible fitting allows the jewel to be worn elegantly as either a brooch or a pendant.

Original Royal Jeweller’s Box

This jewel is accompanied by its original fitted Victorian box, bearing the mark of
Hunt & Roskell (Late Storr & Mortimer) —
Jewellers to the Queen and the Royal Family,
156 New Bond Street, London.

Hunt & Roskell was one of the most prestigious jewellery houses of Victorian Britain, serving the British royal household and elite society. Pieces preserved in their original boxes are highly sought after by collectors.

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