Victorian Lava Cameo Earrings

Victorian Lava Cameo Earrings

C.1870.  A pair of high relief lava cameo earrings. The lava stone is light khaki in color, and set in silver. The lava cameos became popular in fashion in mid-Victorian era due to Mt.Vesuvius in Italy producing an abundance of lava in various colors. They were very popular because of the exotic colors and texture, but also for jewelry makers, they were easier to carve than shells because it is a softer material. Lava cameo jewelry was one of the most popular souvenirs to those who traveled to Italy.

Both cameos are intact, and overall condition is good.

Total Drop: Approximately 22mm (including the front wire)
Cameo N-S: Approximately 18mm