Tassel Pendant Appraisal

Iridescent Cameo Pendant with Tassel

This item is a decorative pendant or brooch featuring a cameo. The cameo itself appears to be carved from a material with iridescence, likely abalone shell or a similar mother-of-pearl variety, given the shifting blue, green, and perhaps some purple hues visible in the carving. The portrait is a classic profile of a woman, facing right, with finely detailed hair and a serene expression, indicative of a neoclassical or Victorian aesthetic. The cameo is set within an ornate, possibly sterling silver or silver-plated, frame. The metal frame exhibits intricate scrollwork and filigree detailing, with small bead-like accents along the edges and within the design. The overall design of the frame suggests a Victorian Revival or Art Nouveau influence, characterized by its curvilinear lines and decorative flourishes. At the top, there is a bail (small loop) for attachment to a chain, indicating its use as a pendant. Below the main cameo setting, a small, decorative tassel element is suspended. This tassel consists of multiple strands of what appear to be snake chains or similar finely linked chains, emanating from a textured, crown-like or filigree cap. The metal shows a uniform bright, silvery tone, suggesting it may be rhodium-plated if silver, or a clean white metal. No obvious significant damage, such as breaks or chips, are visible on the cameo or the metalwork, though typical wear commensurate with age, such as minor surface scratches or slight tarnishing in recessed areas of the metal, might be present but are not clearly discernible from the image. The craftsmanship of the frame appears competent, with a good level of detail in the scrollwork. The integration of the tassel adds an elegant, dynamic element to the piece. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures from the provided image.