Vintage Shell Cameo Pendant

This item is a small, oval-shaped vintage cameo pendant featuring a classical right-facing female profile. The central relief is likely hand-carved from a natural conch or helmet shell, evidenced by the peach-to-pink background layer contrasted against the cream-white raised figure. The woman is depicted with an elaborate hairstyle featuring floral or ribbon-like accents. The carving is mounted in a simple, utilitarian oval metal frame with a basic integrated loop at the top for suspension. The metal shows significant signs of age, characterized by a dark grey patina and surface tarnishing, suggesting it may be silver-toned costume metal or a low-grade silver alloy that has oxidized over time. The craftsmanship of the carving appears to be of mid-quality, common in tourist jewelry from the mid-20th century (circa 1940s-1960s). There are no visible maker's marks or stamps on the front or the loop. The condition reflects moderate wear consistent with age, with some minor surface dirt and dullness to the shell's finish, and significant darkening of the metal setting which would require professional cleaning to restore luster.

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