Antique Victorian Sardonyx Cameo Pendant with Seed Pearls in 9ct Yellow Gold, Circa 1890, in Original J. J. Durrant Box

Description A beautiful and characterful late Victorian cameo pendant, dating to around 1890 and crafted in warm 9ct yellow gold, showcasing the refined craftsmanship and classical inspiration that defined jewellery of the period. The piece centres around an elegant hand-carved sardonyx cameo, depicting the finely detailed profile of a classical lady in relief. The cameo is carved from sardonyx, a layered variety of agate traditionally used for cameo work. The soft white carved figure stands in delicate contrast against the rich reddish-brown background, creating the striking two-tone effect that makes antique cameos so distinctive. The lady is portrayed in profile with flowing hair and classical drapery, her features delicately sculpted with impressive attention to detail, giving the portrait a graceful and timeless appearance. Encircling the cameo is an ornate 9ct yellow gold mount, decorated with elegant openwork scroll motifs that frame the stone beautifully. The goldwork forms a refined border around the oval cameo, adding both structure and decorative flourish without distracting from the central carving. Set within the mount are seed pearls, spaced evenly around the frame. Their soft, creamy lustre complements the warm tone of the gold and enhances the classical aesthetic of the pendant. The pendant is fitted with a neat gold bail, allowing it to hang gracefully from a chain, and the overall design has a lovely sense of balance and delicacy. The combination of the intricately carved sardonyx, the luminous seed pearls and the warm yellow gold frame creates a piece that is both elegant and visually striking. Adding further charm and historical interest, the pendant is accompanied by its original fitted retailer’s box from J. J. Durrant, marked 40 Cheapside, London. Cheapside was historically one of London’s most important jewellery districts during the nineteenth century, and surviving original boxes such as this greatly enhance the piece’s provenance and collectability. With its classical imagery, delicate pearl accents and authentic late Victorian craftsmanship, this pendant carries well over a century of history. It would make a wonderful addition to any antique jewellery collection, offering both beauty and heritage in a single elegant piece. Approximate pendant size: 5cm x 3cm Product code: 156X0489