Cameo Cutting

Chapter 8: Cost of Pieces of Shell.

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About This Book

This practical handbook explains the history and recent rise of shell cameo work, surveys suitable shell varieties and their colour layers, and gives step-by-step instruction for preparing, drawing, and cutting designs. It describes essential tools, the use of a holdfast, polishing and sharpening techniques, mounting methods, and cost considerations for materials and appliances. The text also addresses practice tips, lesson formats including correspondence guidance, market prospects, suggested designs, and illustrated examples to assist amateurs and more experienced artists in producing finished cameo pieces.

Cost of Pieces of Shell.

The cost of ordinary pieces of shell per dozen may be ascertained by reference to the following diagrams:—

Fig. 1.—Different Sizes of Pieces.

Nos. 1 and 2, suitable for small and large ear-rings, 3s. per dozen; No. 3, bracelet size, 4s.; No. 4, larger bracelet or small brooch, 6s.; No. 5, large brooch, 8s.; No. 6, 10s.; No. 7, 15s. to 18s., according to the colour; No. 8, 2s. 6d. to 3s. 6d. each.

The importers of these shells would make up a dozen of various sizes if required. Great care is necessary in selecting pieces suitable for working in order to avoid (1) the mark of a worm left in the early growth of the shell; (2) patches of decayed shell; (3) a tendency to chip, termed “flaking.”