Napoleon Signet Ring – Grey Tahitian Mother-of-Pearl Cameo – Adjustable

Details

Subject: Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of the French
Technique: Cameo hand-carved in relief
Material: Natural grey Tahitian mother-of-pearl
Cameo shape and dimensions: Oval, approximately 14 × 12 mm
Setting: Solid 925 sterling silver or solid bronze
Band: Open and adjustable
Production time: Approximately 1 week
Origin: Handcrafted in Italy

Napoleon, from Portrait to Cameo

Napoleon became Emperor of the French in 1804. His image has endured in part through the portraits that depict him in uniform. In adapting his likeness to an oval measuring 14 × 12 mm, we paid particular attention to the line of his nose and the curve of his hat. These two contours make his profile recognisable even when the ring is worn.

The Mother-of-Pearl

For this cameo, we choose grey Tahitian mother-of-pearl. Silver, green and soft pink reflections appear against its grey surface. As you move your hand, the light sweeps across the broad surface of the bicorne hat, catches Napoleon’s cheek and picks out the finer details of his uniform.

Each piece of mother-of-pearl has its own markings and iridescence. The shades of your ring may therefore vary slightly from those shown in the photographs.

The Cameo

We carve the portrait in relief, cutting away the background around the bust so that the figure stands above it. Fine cuts define the fringe of the epaulette, the buttons and the pattern on the collar. On the forehead and cheekbone, we leave broader surfaces to show the natural colour of the mother-of-pearl.

The Ring

The cameo is set in a signet ring with clean, simple lines. A fine rim of metal follows the oval outline. You can choose the bright lustre of 925 sterling silver or the warm tone of bronze.

The open, adjustable band allows you to gently adjust the ring to fit your finger. This also makes it a practical choice for a gift when you are unsure of the exact size. We make each ring individually to order, a process that takes approximately one week.

This design is part of the Cameo Collection. Explore the collection →

An Image to Carry with You

For anyone drawn to Napoleonic history, the emperor’s profile may bring to mind a biography they have read, a collection of medals or a visit to a place associated with his life. This is part of the appeal of a miniature portrait. A face familiar to many can evoke a memory that belongs to the wearer alone.

Need Assistance?

If you would like a closer look at the carving and the way the mother-of-pearl changes colour in the light, we would be happy to send you a short video of your cameo before shipping.

You can also get in touch for advice on sizing or to design a bespoke piece with us, choosing the subject, stone and setting.

Contact us on WhatsApp · Email us

From the Archive

For centuries, engravers have carved the profiles of rulers and notable figures into gemstones, creating portraits small enough to carry with them. Our Napoleon cameo continues this tradition of gem engraving. In the mother-of-pearl, the brim of the bicorne, the forehead and the chin trace a profile that remains recognisable even on the small surface of a ring.

Discover the history of gem engraving →