Victorian Grand Tour Lava Cameo Pendant

I came across this absolutely exquisite lava cameo on a recent road trip and I was absolutely mesmerized by it. It was very difficult to make the choice to list this. It is a substantially-sized hand-carved lava cameo with high relief featuring likely the Roman goddess Flora, who has delicate miniature flowers and fruits in her hair. This is a particularly well-made Grand Tour souvenir from the 19th century, with an estimated date of c.1860 and could even been earlier. Well-to-do gentlemen from England in particular would take the Grand Tour in Italy to learn about the antiquities and return with "lava" (limestone) or coral souvenirs. It's a substantial size that can be strung on a thick chain or be clipped as a brooch to your lapel or to close a scarf.

Specification

Please note that the lava is actually a warmer tone than the photos due to camera capturing the lighting. The video shows the color better in natural light.

Unmarked but acid tests as 14k rose gold

Measures 1.5in x 1.75in, weighs 19.15g total

The listing is for the brooch only without the antique box.

Condition

In excellent antique condition commensurate with age. The "c" catch has an additional piece of gold added at some point in history to secure the pin better. Please note that the pin holds within the catch but is a bit loose and needs care when wearing. The nose of the sculpture shows a slight potential chip but also looks like it could be in the original sculpting. Please refer to the images. Shows some age-related discolouration of the limestone commensurate with age. Please note that this is a pre-owned antique piece and is therefore not in mint condition. Sold as-is.