Victorian Black Onyx Cameo Pendant in 18ct Yellow Gold

A striking onyx cameo, and glass micro mosaic pendant from the Victorian period. A central midnight banded onyx oval has been intricately carved into a relief cameo portraying a diaphanous Roman Goddess. Possibly a depiction of Venus we see her clutching a dove and lyre, whilst frozen in movement. Set into a Romanesque 18ct yellow gold surround, an intricate border of black and white glass micro mosaic stars and diamonds complete this striking design. Cameos were incredibly popular during the Georgian and Victorian periods with examples from antiquity being sought after during the Grand Tour. This example was clearly inspired by antique examples, which can be seen in the intricate twisted and beaded gold details. The ancient city of Pompeii, which was excavated throughout the 19th-century caused a surge of interest in the ancient Roman world with many pieces of jewellery being discovered. An intricate circular link chain completed this piece, which can be worn against black as the ultimate evening jewel.