Rare 19 th. C. Venetian Cameo Necklace of the Gods with Freshwater Pearls

This divine Elizabethan inspired legacy masterpiece showcases a rare suite of six exquisitely hand-carved early nineteenth-century Italian shell Cameos, originally commissioned for a distinguished patron. Each of the larger coordinating Cameos measures 1.88" x 1.50", four of which depict Romanesque Goddess-like portraits that capture the grace, elegance, and artistry of the period. Two smaller hand-carved Goddess Cameos, integral to the original suite and measuring approximately 11 x 14 mm, crown the top of the necklace, adding sculptural refinement and visual harmony.

The Cameos are meticulously linked with double sterling silver English rolo chains, accented with swags of 8–9 mm lustrous freshwater pearl “buttons.” Romantic pierced filigree links near the clasp create a delicate interplay of light, texture, and historical sophistication.

Because each Cameo is individually carved, assembling a suite of six perfectly matched large nineteenth-century pieces is extraordinarily rare, rendering this necklace a singular, museum-quality treasure. A timeless statement of artistry, heritage, and elegance, it is thoughtfully designed by Jill Garber and expertly bench-crafted in her USA studio.

• Suite of six antique nineteenth-century hand-carved shell Cameos, 1.88" x 1.50"
• Two 11 x 14 mm matching hand-carved Goddess Cameos from the original suite
• Five 8–9 mm luminous freshwater pearl “buttons”
• Antique nineteenth-century filigree chain links
• Overall length: 15.25"
• Handcrafted in sterling silver with Jill Garber’s signature studio patina

* From the Renaissance through the nineteenth century, Italy was the epicenter of the fine art of cameo carving. Wealthy patrons—including European nobility, aristocrats, and affluent merchants—commissioned suites of hand-carved shell Cameos to reflect their refined taste, status, and cultural sophistication. Unlike single pieces, these suites were designed as coordinated sets for necklaces, bracelets, brooches, or ceremonial adornments, often following a specific theme such as classical mythology, Romanesque goddesses, or allegorical figures.

Each cameo was meticulously carved from natural shell, with attention to depth, perspective, and intricate details that conveyed expression, drapery, and narrative. Large suites required the skill of master carvers to ensure uniformity in size, style, and quality -a task that is both painstaking and rare. These sets often became family heirlooms, treasured across generations, and today represent some of the most coveted and collectible examples of 19th-century Italian decorative art. The creation of such suites exemplified the blending of classical artistic ideals with bespoke craftsmanship, making them both luxurious adornments and historically significant works of art.