The glint of a December sun on polished shell. That’s what caught my eye first, not the marketing copy. I’d been staring at the frost-covered windowpane, contemplating the absolute lack of decent cameos I’d seen lately. So, when the email pinged with a “Victorian Cameo Brooch” subject line, I almost dismissed it. Another flimsy reproduction, I figured. But I clicked anyway, bracing myself for disappointment.

The product description promised versatility, which, in the world of antique jewelry, can be code for “it goes with everything, because it’s likely not really antique.” I squinted at the image, focusing on the carving itself. A classically draped female figure, the shell a creamy ivory against the stark black of the frame. Promising. Then I noticed the pin backing. A simple, early-safety clasp. An excellent sign. Not a later, cheap replacement.

After a week of wearing it around the shop – a low-key field test, if you will – I have formed an opinion. This isn’t a museum piece. It’s a wearable Victorian cameo. Crucially, the shell is in excellent condition; there is no chipping, no major discoloration. The frame, I suspect, is gold-filled, which is fitting. Victorian-era goldsmiths embraced the technique to create beautiful pieces that weren’t the extravagant price of solid gold. It gives the piece a solid presence.

Yes, you can attach it to your coat, your sweater, your shawl. It holds up. I tested it on the heavy wool of a winter coat. It stayed put, no problem. The pin is secure, though a touch small for the weight of a very thick fabric. Simple solution? A safety chain. An antique one, ideally. A little added insurance and character.

One detail did, however, give me pause. The carving, while detailed, lacks the extreme precision you’d find in a signed, high-end cameo. (Think, a portrait by a skilled Italian carver.) Not a deal-breaker, mind you. The price point reflects this minor imperfection. But it does suggest this piece was made for the mass market rather than commissioned by aristocracy. Which, frankly, makes it more accessible.

This brooch won’t replace my more precious, meticulously carved pieces. But for someone looking to add a touch of vintage elegance to their wardrobe, without breaking the bank, it’s a definite winner. Consider it the entry-level option for a lifetime’s love affair with cameos.