What is a cameo?

A cameo is a small, often intricate piece of jewelry or decorative object featuring a raised image or relief of a person, animal, or scene. The image is carved into a contrasting material, which is typically a different color or type of stone than the surrounding material. The most commonly used material for cameos is shell, although stone, glass, and other materials can also be used. The art of carving cameos dates back to ancient times, both in Greece and Rome, and the technique has been used in jewelry and decorative objects ever since. Cameos can be carved with great detail and precision, making them prized collector's items, and they can also be used to create personalized gifts or adornments.