A Splendid Testament to Edwardian Elegance: An Early 20th Century High Relief Conch Shell Cameo statement ring in 9ct Rosy Gold.

A Splendid Testament to Edwardian Elegance: An Early 20th Century High Relief Conch Shell Cameo statement ring in 9ct Rosy Gold.

This breathtaking antique ring is a true jewel of the Edwardian era, crafted in hallmarked 9ct rosy gold and bearing the date mark for London, circa 1902, alongside the goldsmith’s initials S.E.C. It exemplifies both the delicate artistry and the romantic aesthetics of its time.

At the heart of the ring lies a high-relief hand-carved cameo, hewn from natural conch shell with exquisite detail. The subject is a left-facing lady in classical profile, her features finely sculpted with an ethereal softness. Left-facing cameos are considered rarer and more desirable than their right-facing counterparts.

The cameo is bezel-set in an elevated openwork gallery, which gives the piece an architectural presence, reminiscent of antique columns supporting a treasure. The bezel is finely edged with a delicate twisted rope border, adding both texture and a subtle flourish—a nod to the ornamental detailing favored in Edwardian design.

But what truly sets this piece apart is its dramatic, sculptural gallery setting.Tapering struts rise with geometric precision from the shank, creating a cathedral-like elevation beneath the cameo. This ingenious openwork not only enhances the profile of the piece but allows light to enter beneath the shell, subtly illuminating the creamy layers of the carving.

The shank is simple yet sturdy, gently tapering and splitting into elegant shoulders to support the raised platform above. This construction provides both durability and a graceful balance to the ring's overall bold silhouette.

Such rings were worn by fashionable women during the Edwardian period (1901–1910), an era that cherished sentimental jewelry and neoclassical revival. Cameos were prized not only for their beauty but for their symbolism—often seen as a reflection of intellect, femininity, and appreciation of antiquity.

Measurements :The ring measures as a size M and half as per ring measure stick.The oval cameo measures 2.5cm x 1.9cm.The ring with a weight of 7.4grams.