The Cameo - Cheap Knock-Off Or Prized Collectible?

Few of us have any problem recognizing the classic portrait on a cameo but it can be more difficult trying to estimate value. In reality, some cameos are cheap pieces made out of plastic while the more valuable pieces can be worth hundreds or more. The classic portrait is indeed a defining feature but it can be made from any number of different materials. To separate the cheap pieces from the valuable ones, you need to look at the materials used to make the portrait. Those crafted using plastic and glass should be avoided but try to look for any fashioned out of any of the following materials:


Ivory
Wood
Abalone
Shells
Coral
Bone

Despite the fact that natural materials make for more valuable pieces, identifying them is complicated. This is because plastic can resemble any material. Cheaper plastic and glass molded portraits will be shiny and quite easy to recognize. There are some examples, however, of natural materials being used in molded versions.

The majority of molded cameos will never appreciate in value and one would be wise to avoid them. There are profits to be made for a knowledgeable collector who can identify the carved pieces and avoid the molded imitators. Glass cameos can be easily spotted by looking on the back for mold marks, dimples, or ridges. Be sure to avoid these molded imitators when shopping for cameos.

Due to both superior materials and craftsmanship, the carved pieces are the ones to keep your eyes open for. The great diversity of materials used in creating carved cameos means collectors have a lot of things to look for when trying to identify a specific piece. Carved shell cameos should have very clear and exacting details in the portrait relief so be sure to stay away from any pieces with smooth lines and poor detail. Coral cameos can be identified easily because they tend to be monochromatic and feature a thin, flat back and rich detailing. Relatively flat and multi-colored due to its layering, agate is a very popular material used to make some of the more valuable carved cameos.

But while the carved pieces made from mother of pearl, shell, and other similar materials are all worth money, those made from stone tend to be even more valuable.

One of the greatest feelings for a collector is spying a valuable cameo dramatically undervalued and being able to buy it for pennies on the dollar. Man-made materials like plastic and glass can be fashioned to look just like the carved pieces but there are a number of clues that can help identify them. Even carved wood portraits are highly valuable and prized among collectors. Learning the distinguishing features of the carved and molded cameos is what separates hobbyists from those who make a great living while collecting elegant jewelry.

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