An extraordinary and very rare antique Victorian-era Italian Sardonyx cameo 7-panel bracelet. Hand-carved and in a lovely sterling silver setting, this bracelet features stunning scenes of Roman gods racing chariots representing the days of the week. 
 
Monday - Diana Goddess of Hunting and Chastity
Tuesday - Mars God of War
Wednesday - Mercury God of Trade and Protector of Thieves
Thursday - Jupiter Gods Father
Friday - Venus Goddess of Love and Beauty
Saturday - Saturns God of Agriculture
Sunday - Apollo God of the Sun, Art and Medicine
 
 
There is no damage, and each cameo is firmly set within the bezel frame. All links are accounted for and this is ready to wear. Box Clasp.
 
Ancient Sumerians created the first cameos, often used as seals. The ancient Greeks also used cameos as currency, and many of these pieces have been found in archaeological excavations. Cameos continued to be popular during the Roman Empire and were often used as signet rings. During the Renaissance, cameo jewelry experienced a revival, making it fashionable for men and women to wear cameos. The Victorian era was also a golden age for cameo jewelry, and many beautiful pieces were created during this time. To support what soon became a continental craze, Napoleon established a school in Paris and staffed it with abducted Sicilians who trained young Frenchmen in the glyptic art. For the first part of the 19th century, these artisans rivaled in output and excellence their Italian peers, producing some of the most innovative examples of the genre.
 
MATERIAL:
Sardonyx Shell, Silver (Hallmark 800)
 
AGE: 
1800s
 
CONDITION:
Very good – surface wear commensurate with age and use
 
SIZE: 
L: 18 cm 
H: 1.75 cm
 
WEIGHT:
18.85g
 
Please read descriptions and inspect photos carefully, paying careful attention to size and weight. Due to the age of antique and vintage jewelry, minor abrasions and wear of finishes is normal and appreciated. All items have been tested to be in working/usable condition, unless otherwise stated. Please take care to understand safe cleaning methods for each type of gem and metal. Jewelry pieces are carefully wrapped, ribboned and shipped in an elegant velvet box.