Featured Cameo brooch

Just dug this up. Looks like it's early 20th C. looking at the pin on the back. Looks like silver too. I did notice, sadly after I bought it that there is a flaw running down vertically past the nose.

 

I would say late 19th century. The figure is Psyche:

https://cameotimes.com/index.php/profiles-1/minor-gods/psyche

 

Lovely. Thanks for the info. Google was telling me 'flower goddess'

 

Google still has a thing or 2 to learn.

The metal is probably silver, but may be 800 rather than 925 in fineness. The cameo is cut in helmet shell. Stress lines, while not desirable, are usually not considered fatal if the break does not run all the way front to back.

 

Yes Google can be full of guff sometimes. I have a silver test but concerned it might permanently mark it or stain the cameo if I have a spillage.
Regarding the stress line, it's difficult to tell if it does run to the surface on either side or if it's just internal, due to it being translucent. Guess I could try running my nail over it to see if I can feel it.

 

I think I've found some kind of mark on it. Can't make out though and I can't get me loupe in at the right angle to focus on it. Bottom right of pin holder thingy. Oh and I hoovered up the other day. Can you tell?

 

Das small......but could be a mark..

 

Do you not have a testing stone? You shouldn't be applying acid directly on the piece.

The mark looks to me like something incidental to the manufacturing with no further significance.

 

It's not a silver mark, and it's 100 years too old for an Avon dot mark so...dunno.

 

I've never heard of a testing stone. I'll look into it thanks. The only things I've ever tested really are for scrap.

Regarding the mark, I think you are right. I can't seem to see any detail on it. It wouldn't be unusual for it to be unmarked.

 

The mark I see most commonly on pieces like this is '800', when the piece has been mounted in Italy. With its bifurcated prongs & the safety device that keeps the pin stem firmly in the clasp when closed, this is better made than average.