Modern Traditional: Cameo Jewelry for Today's Woman

Modern Traditional: Cameo Jewelry for Today's Woman

Do you follow us on Facebook and Instagram? If you do, you’ll know that we have been running a Retired Piece of the Day series, where we have been relaunching discontinued product at a reduced price. Recently, we have relaunched our Intaglio Collection which was inspired by Men’s Carved Cameo Rings that have existed for centuries.

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Cameo Jewelry from the early 20th century is what most people will recognize, and is usually a raised-relief portrait of a woman in profile on a colored background. They are often synonymous with Victorian era fashion.  But Cameo Jewelry has existed since ancient times, and often depicted mythological themes, paid tribute to their respective Gods and Goddesses, and later political portraits.

The term “Cameo” refers to the method in which the portraits are carved. To be considered “Cameo” the carving had to be raised off of the background, while “Intaglio” would be carved into the stone. Higher-end pieces were carved from gemstones, while more affordable options have been carved from glass or shells.

This jewelry was popular in both men and women’s fashion and was often a sign of status. Men’s cameo and intaglio jewelry was often in the form of rings and showcased Roman Soldiers. Soldier’s were a sign of strength. This was especially true for the image of a soldier wearing a tall, plumed helmet, which was used to make them more impressive or intimidating.

Modern cameo jewelry has made a comeback in recent years, even making it to the red carpet in 2019. At John Medeiros Jewelry Collections, our modern Intaglio Collection, was adapted so the roman soldier could be worn on women's jewelry as a symbol of the empowerment and strength that every woman possesses. These pieces come in many colors and styles, have limited quantities, and are only available at www.johnmedeiros.com/