The small oval lava cameo depicting the profile of a classical lady, in 14k gold

Dimension: 27 mm x 31 mm
Conventionally called "lava", the cameo is carved from a natural mudstone, found in the area around Pompeii and Herculaneum in Italy. The cameos were often purchased by travellers on the "grand tour" in the 19th Century, when visiting the recently re-discovered and excavated cities that were destroyed in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE.
Cameo of a reddish brown colour, matte texture, good condition, carving of good quality, showing some signs of wear.
The pin fitting shows signs of alteration and soft solder

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Condition reports are provided as a courtesy to clients and are a qualified subjective opinion only. All items are sold ‘as is’.