Description
Absolutely gorgeous example of vintage Van Dell natural shell cameo jewelry…. It is well made and beautifully deep carved throughout. This is vintage mid century signed Van Dell cameo portrait pin and is marked 12K gold filled Van Dell. It is completely original. No alterations. The fancy filigree frame is much stronger gold color than the photos. No wear to the gold. Excellent Condition overall, very gently used. No damage or repair. The back has a light age residue which has not been cleaned. The face has very beautiful, detailed carved work with unusually fancy hair, chiseled nose, well-defined open intaglio eye, thick lips, up slanted mouth, fancy flower decorated dress and matching flower in hair. Size is 1 1/2″ tall by 1 1/4″ wide across. This is a lovely piece of estate jewelry for your cameo collection.
Van Dell AI Reference:
Van Dell manufactured 14K GF and 12K gold-filled, shell cameo pins and pendants primarily from the 1940s through the 1960s. Founded in 1939 in Providence, Rhode Island, the company specialized in high-quality gold-filled jewelry, often featuring Victorian-style carved shell cameos, with many popular pieces dating specifically to the 1950s.
Key Details About Van Dell Cameos:
Production Era: While the company was founded in 1939, most identifiable, high-quality cameos found in the market are from the 1940s–1960s.
Materials: Typically, these pieces are marked “Van Dell 14K GF” “Van Dell 12KGF” or “1/20 12K GF,” signifying 12-karat gold-filled construction (not plated).
Design: Often features hand-carved shell (conch) cameos, frequently set in a classic, often filigree, yellow gold frame that functions as both a brooch and a pendant.
Van Dell was known for high-quality, durable gold-filled….












