Tips on identifying real cameos

Came across this tips on identifying real cameos:

• Real shell cameos have a matte look to them, not a shiny look that a lot of vintage plastic cameos have.
• Always look at the cameo you are going to purchase under a jeweler’s 10X loupe, regardless of the material. Real shell cameos have tool carving marks.
• Shell cameos have a wonderful translucent quality, like porcelain, when held up in a strong light or sunlight. However, some plastic cameos may be thin enough to see through like this, so don’t rely on this as your only test.
• Turn the cameo over and inspect the back. Real shell cameos have concave (curved) backs. Think of the shape of a conch shell from which they are generally carved from the outside to the inside. Those shells are all concave (curved).
• Some say that if they touch a cameo with their wrist, chin, or tooth (not recommended) it will be cold if it is shell or stone, and warm if it is plastic.
• Fake cameos that have been glued together layer by layer may contain real and fake materials combined, making them difficult to distinguish them from real cameos. Consider having a reputable jeweler in your area examine the piece for authenticity if the cameo you are considering is suspect, and/or the asking price is very high.

Great stuff there.. read the whole article on Rubylane.com