Cameo jewelry: a jewelry classic that has become trendy again
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A great classic in jewelry, the cameo jewel has crossed the ages to establish itself today as a must-have in fashion. It is a motif carved in a hard stone or a shell, highlighting a specific symbol, and mounted on a gold or silver jewelry base. Sets consisting of a necklace, earrings and cameo ring are very popular with fashionistas today. Let's discover the history, manufacturing stages and trends of this timeless jewel. |
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The History of Cameo Jewelry
The Greco-Roman period
Now fashionable, the cameo has its roots in ancient Greece, around 400 BC. The Greek craftsmen who excelled at that time in the art of cutting stones, had imagined other outlets for their know-how. The precision of their craft allowed them to work very small stones, then used as various ornaments to form the first cameo jewels.
Roman civilization took hold of this art a few centuries later, to project it into another dimension. Indeed, Roman artisans perfected this Greek heritage to create magnificent sculptures with impressive designs.
Several cameo creations then saw the light of day, often in the form of jewelry aimed at elevating their owners to a certain social rank, but also sometimes as objects of a protective, magical nature, or even blessed by the gods.
Over time, the cameo was used in other types of objects. We found it in earrings, rings or necklaces, but also in vases, dishes, and even on the military helmets of Roman troops.
An attraction lost in the Middle Ages, rediscovered in the Renaissance
The art of the cameo lasted until the Middle Ages, when it was rarely practiced. Other forms of art appeared, casting a shadow over the know-how of the cameo, which was then considered “out of fashion”. Long sidelined, it resurfaced in the world of jewelry during the Renaissance. We also speak of an artistic Renaissance in the sense that the works of this period were no longer inspired by the Middle Ages but by Greco-Roman art. It was then customary to associate it with several other accessories. The combination of a signet ring and a cameo ring, for example, was trendy, a sign of belonging to a privileged social class.
The history of the cameo has also been closely linked to that of remarkable personalities. These include Queen Victoria and Napoleon Bonaparte. Eager to limit imports from Italy, the latter even founded a school in which students could learn the art of hard stone engraving, giving rise to a few French artisans who mastered this know-how.
Sculptors have subsequently perfected their techniques from generation to generation to create exceptional cameo jewelry. The finesse and originality of the pieces obtained have encouraged the public to take an interest in them and to consider the cameo as an essential fashion accessory. A popularity that has pushed jewelers to show imagination to decline this jewel in several variations that are both trendy and original.
What does the cameo jewel symbolize?
Throughout history, cameo jewelry has been used to represent various symbols. For example, Roman sculptors made gold chains with the image of divinities or political figures. Archaeologists have discovered gold or cross pendants with the image of Venus, Cybele and Minerva, dating back several hundred years.
Later, in Torre Del Greco, in the Naples region, sculptors represented the portrait of the women they loved to signify their love and admiration.
Today, cameo jewelry is mainly characterized by the profile of a woman, which recalls the rich history and artistic influences through which this know-how has passed.
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Making cameo jewelry
Cameo professionals use several materials to shape their creations. Among them are: agate, carnelian, ivory, opal, rock crystal, chalcedony, zirconium oxide, sardonyx, and even shell.
Manufacturing steps
The making of a cameo jewel is often done entirely by hand. The jeweler can then manipulate the material as he wishes, making each jewel unique and singular. To do this, he follows the following steps:
- Choice of stone or shell: very important in view of the type of sculpture and the desired result;
- Cutting: the jeweler removes the convex parts of the stone or shell to obtain a homogeneous whole ready to be handled;
- Gripping: this phase allows you to precisely define the shape of the jewel to be created (heart shape, oval, rectangular, etc.);
- Fixing the parts on a wooden pin with hot putty;
- Peeling: abrasion of the external part of the shell;
- Engraving: the jeweler draws the pattern to be represented on the transparent layer.
Countries known for cameo manufacturing
Italy is a country renowned for the manufacture of cameos. Several Italian houses offer a variety of models based on cameos, such as the Cameo models by Miumiu.
The term “Cameo” comes from the Italian “Cameo” or “Cammeo”, meaning a work or piece made by hand, decorated with precious stones.
For our part, we have found for cameo lovers an Italian designer who perfectly combines modernity and tradition. Based in Torre del Greco, the stronghold of this know-how, Alessandro Ricevuto at the head of Vintouch Jewelry wonderfully perpetuates the family tradition. Son and grandson of a jeweler, he brings cameo jewelry up to date by imagining and handcrafting models that fit perfectly into the daily life of modern life, with particular importance given to responsible sourcing and recycled materials.
Current trends
This fashion classic has become very popular these days. Whether for stars, influencers, or lovers of sought-after pieces, the cameo has established itself as a must-have for a chic and vintage style.
What looks are possible with cameo jewelry?
Refined and elegant, the cameo can be worn in different ways and can be combined with various outfits. For example, you can opt for a casual look where the cameo jewel, combined with a casual style , will be more highlighted and give more character to your outfit.
For an elegant look, a set of necklace, earrings and cameo ring will fit perfectly with your evening outfit, giving your style an original and sophisticated side.
It can also be worn on a daily basis with more or less formal outfits, for a modern style tinged with a vintage touch.
It is also an excellent option for offering an original gift, whether to please your other half, for a birthday, or for Mother's Day.
Famous Stars Who Made Cameos Recently
Many celebrities have also adopted the cameo. Among them, we can mention Rihanna who created a jewelry line dedicated to the cameo jewel to celebrate the beauty of “Black Women”.
Other stars have also fallen for this jewel, such as Katy Perry and Blake Lively.
Influencers who use cameos
Several committed influencers have chosen to integrate the cameo into their jewelry box. Keen to find rare gems to further mark their style, they choose cameo earrings, pendants, or rings that enhance their looks. Our favorites remain Alias Louise and Nawal Bonnefoy, who wear pieces from our Vintouch selection.
In short, cameo jewelry undeniably has the power to enhance your look. Through its shape, its patterns, and its history. It is an object that challenges, intrigues and often pleases the eye. What is certain is that it will not leave those around you indifferent!
