Vintage Mother-of-Pearl Cameo Brooch
This item is a vintage oval-shaped brooch featuring a carved mother-of-pearl cameo depicting a female profile. The cameo is rendered in a classical style, showing the head and shoulders of a woman facing left, with her hair intricately styled in curls or an updo. The carved shell is a luminous white to off-white color, set against a darker, possibly tarnished or oxidized metal frame that has a beaded or textured edge, providing a subtle contrast. The reverse side of the brooch reveals a functional pin mechanism, consisting of a hinge and a simple C-clasp catch, indicative of vintage jewelry construction. A rectangular paper label, partially obscured and worn, is affixed to the back, which is likely a price or inventory sticker. The visible condition issues include a 'chipped scallop' as noted in the context, which points to a potential area of damage on the shell's edge or carving, though not clearly visible in the provided image. The context also mentions 'days made in Vietnam on the back,' implying a possible country of origin marking that is either faded or covered by the sticker. The style suggests a mid-20th century vintage period. The craftsmanship, while appearing mass-produced, shows a fair level of detail in the cameo carving, making it a decorative and wearable piece of costume or vintage jewelry. The dark frame with its textured edge provides a suitable backdrop that enhances the luminosity of the mother-of-pearl.
AI-Generated Appraisal Disclaimer
Estimated Value
$10-25
Basic Information
Category
Jewelry
Appraised On
October 23, 2025
Estimated Value
$10-25
Additional Details Provided By Owner
User Provided Information
Vintage Shell Cameo Brooch From Thailand READ Chipped Scallop, days made in Vietnam on the back
Item Description
This item is a vintage oval-shaped brooch featuring a carved mother-of-pearl cameo depicting a female profile. The cameo is rendered in a classical style, showing the head and shoulders of a woman facing left, with her hair intricately styled in curls or an updo. The carved shell is a luminous white to off-white color, set against a darker, possibly tarnished or oxidized metal frame that has a beaded or textured edge, providing a subtle contrast. The reverse side of the brooch reveals a functional pin mechanism, consisting of a hinge and a simple C-clasp catch, indicative of vintage jewelry construction. A rectangular paper label, partially obscured and worn, is affixed to the back, which is likely a price or inventory sticker. The visible condition issues include a 'chipped scallop' as noted in the context, which points to a potential area of damage on the shell's edge or carving, though not clearly visible in the provided image. The context also mentions 'days made in Vietnam on the back,' implying a possible country of origin marking that is either faded or covered by the sticker. The style suggests a mid-20th century vintage period. The craftsmanship, while appearing mass-produced, shows a fair level of detail in the cameo carving, making it a decorative and wearable piece of costume or vintage jewelry. The dark frame with its textured edge provides a suitable backdrop that enhances the luminosity of the mother-of-pearl.
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