THE MET European Cameo Charm Necklace and Drop Earrings Set

Set of necklace and earrings 18K gold plate Cultured fresh water pearls Glass Cubic zirconia Rose quartz and agate Necklace: Lobster-claw closure; 15''L with 2 1/2'' extender; pendant drop: 2 1/2''L Earrings: Pierced, with surgical steel ear posts; 1 1/2''L x 1/2''W Clean with a damp cloth and dry with a soft, clean cloth This striking set celebrates the "Marlborough Gem," a 19th-century adornment in The Met's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts holdings. So named for reputedly belonging to a collection formed by the fourth duke of Marlborough, the original ornament features a central cameo based on a Roman type in which the subject glances over her shoulder. She's framed by an assortment of smaller cameos—added by a subsequent owner—a few of which may claim classical origins. The Museum's ensemble illustrates the age-old practice of incorporating cameos to build pieces of greater complexity.