This gorgeous hand carved lava bracelet is from the Victorian (ca1880) era! The 18k yellow gold bracelet is bezel-set with five exquisitely carved in high relief cameos from Mount Vesuvius lavas. The cameos feature deities (Artemis, Ares, Zeus, Dionysus, Apollo) of the ancient Greco-Roman world. Usually lava cameos are found in 3-4 colors. This bracelet has 5 different colors of the Vesuvian lavas: beige, bluish gray, white, golden beige, and black. The cameos are in excellent condition for their age: no chips, details are sharp, no wear to the highest points. The gold setting and clasp has some minor old repairs. The highly artistic quality of carvings and diversity of subjects of these early lava cameos are far superior to the later lava cameos from the mid 1900’s. Marked on the clasp is a stamp with a side profile of the face which identifies this bracelet as being made in France. A push clasp closure completes the bracelet with oval links connecting each cameo. The bracelet is so fabulous and would make a great addition to any collection!
Measurements: The entire length of the bracelet is 7 1/2 inches long or 168mm. All the cameos are 1 1/4 inches long by 1 1/8 inches wide.
Condition: The overall condition of the bracelet is excellent. There is no apparent damage to any of the lava cameos or to the 18k setting. The clasp and safety closure are secure and in good working condition.
