A timeless tribute to the enduring elegance of classical cameo jewellery.
This graceful mid-century cameo brooch features a finely sculpted lady’s profile in raised relief, rendered in ivory-toned lucite against a warm coral background. The delicate carving captures the romantic beauty long associated with traditional European cameo portraits — from the softly flowing curls to the draped neckline and subtle beaded necklace.
The cameo is framed in a refined gold-tone mount, surrounded by a soft ivory lucite border, creating a beautifully balanced composition that highlights the portrait while maintaining a gentle, understated presence.
Lightweight and elegant, the brooch carries the aesthetic of traditional shell cameos while offering the practicality and durability of mid-century lucite craftsmanship.
Construction & Dating
The brooch is fitted with a long pin, tubular hinge and classic C-catch clasp, a fastening style commonly used in jewellery from the 1940s through the 1950s, before the widespread adoption of modern safety rollover clasps.
The reverse also shows hand-set riveted tabs securing the cameo mount, another characteristic detail found in mid-century costume jewellery production.
These structural elements strongly indicate a mid-20th century classical revival cameo piece.
Design Details
• Raised classical female portrait in ivory lucite
• Warm coral background providing depth and contrast
• Gold-tone inner frame accentuating the cameo
• Ivory lucite outer border lending softness and refinement
• Lightweight construction for comfortable wear
The profile depicts a woman adorned with a ribbon in her hair and a delicate necklace, echoing the romantic style of 19th-century European cameo portraiture.
Styling Suggestions
Cameos have long been cherished for their refined and heritage-inspired elegance.
Classic styling
• On the lapel of a tailored blazer
• Pinned to a silk blouse or dress
• On the collar of a cardigan
Creative styling
• As a focal brooch on a silk scarf
• On a structured handbag
• Styled with other brooches for a curated collector’s arrangement
The warm coral tone pairs beautifully with ivory, cream, navy, soft blush and champagne fabrics.
Collector’s Value
This brooch holds particular appeal for collectors of vintage costume jewellery:
• Mid-century craftsmanship with classic C-catch construction
• Classical cameo revival design, inspired by Victorian jewellery traditions
• Elegant statement size at 5 cm × 3 cm
• Lightweight lucite construction allowing comfortable wear
Cameos have remained one of the most enduring motifs in jewellery history, treasured for their ability to capture portraiture, artistry and timeless femininity in miniature form.
 
Era: Circa 1940s
Condition: Excellent vintage condition
Material: Lucite cameo with gold-tone setting and ivory lucite frame
Measurements: 5 cm × 3 cm
Weight: Lightweight