1STDIBS

Pre-owned Edwardian Opal Cameo Pendant In Multi

This exquisite early 20th-century cameo pendant showcases a shimmering composition of opals. At its center is a rare boulder opal, masterfully carved in the Classical profile of a woman, reflecting the Edwardian era’s renewed fascination with ancient art and refined historic design. Surrounding the cameo, a luminous mosaic of opals and enamel creates a richly iridescent backdrop, an unusually sophisticated and rare combination of materials. The pendant is especially remarkable for its extensive use of carved opal, a gemstone celebrated for its play of color yet notoriously challenging to carve. The delicacy of the profile and the precision of the surrounding opal inlay speak to the exceptional skill required to create such a jewel. A diamond-set frame enhances the composition, incorporating a Classical-inspired laurel wreath accented by eight delicate flowers set with Old European-cut diamonds. Completing the design, a graceful diamond bow suspends the pendant from its chain, while a drop of three round diamonds adds movement and brilliance below. The diamond accents total approximately 1.00 carat. Set in platinum and yellow gold. Circa 1905