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How Can You Tell If Cameos Are Authentic?

A cameo is a miniature carving fashioned in such a way that it stands in three-dimensional relief from the background, usually in a contrasting color. The finished piece is then mounted into a piece of jewelry. Cameos date back to ancient Rome, when they were cut from precious gemstones, but the vast majority of cameos produced in the last 150 years - and the ones you are like to encounter - are made from conch shells. However, you need to beware mass-produced resin imitations. Here are some tips towards recognizing the genuine article.

Instructions

- 1
  Look at the mount first of all. An authentic cameo will be set in silver or gold rather than a base metal. Precious metals can be identified by the presence of a hallmark. If the cameo is glued into the mount, then you're handling a cheap resin example. (For more help with silver and gold marks, see Resources.)
- 2
  Hold the cameo up to a light source. A shell cameo will be translucent. This is also a very good way of spotting any cracks or other damage.
- 3
  Check the back. The rear of a shell cameo will be concave -- i.e., curving inwards. A flat back with striations is a sure sign of a resin fake.

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