Egyptian Scarab Jewelry - Symbolism and History

Executive Summary about Jewelry Symbols By Susan Jensen

The scarab beetle has been a symbolic motif in Egyptian jewelry for thousands of years. The scarab is a symbol of regeneration and rebirth, thus scarab jewelry was thought to bring protection, luck and vitality to the wearer. Egyptian soldiers were given scarabs before going into battle. Women were given scarabs for fertility. Scarab beads and designs were commonly fashioned into bracelets, pendants and rings.

Scarab jewelry was made from a wide range of stones and materials. Archeologists have found examples of scarab beads and artifacts made from clay, soapstone, green basalt, glass, bone, precious metals, wood, semi-precious gemstones and many other types of stone. The colors of scarabs were symbolic so plain stone was often glazed or enameled in bright colors. The most common colors found in enameled scarab jewelry were green (symbolizing new life), blue (for the sky and the River Nile), and red (for the sun). In addition to enamels, brightly coloured semi-precious gemstones were used in scarab jewelry making including lapis lazuli, amethyst, carnelian, agate, jasper, onyx and turquoise. Today, scarab jewelry is still made from gemstones, enameled materials, and precious metals.

The symbolism in scarab jewelry derives primarily from its association with the Egyptian god of the rising sun, Khepri. One type of scarab, the "Sacred Scarab" or dung beetle, lays its eggs in a ball of dung which it rolls along the ground and finally into a hole where the eggs hatch and new beetles emerge from. Scarabs were also used in ancient Egypt for protection in the afterlife. Large "heart scarabs" with hieroglyphic inscriptions on the underside, were placed across the chest of the deceased in the tomb. Today, heart scarabs are valued for ornamental purposes, and many still bear hieroglyphs and symbolic carvings on the underside.

Since Egyptian history and art are still studied today, the fascination with the scarab continues. Scarab jewelry and decor are still made in Egypt and by craftsmen around the world

Jewelry Symbols of Hope

Executive Summary about Jewelry Symbols By Melanie Spark

For instance, someone may have hope in earning a college degree, starting a family or simply finding happiness. Whatever the term means to you, it's a wonderful way to live every day with hope in your heart. If you are looking to add this special sentiment to your jewelry collection, there are a number of symbols and/or styles that you can wear and enjoy.

Pink Tourmaline, for instance, is the gemstone of hope. This bright, medium-pink stone is considered to be rare and is highly sought after in the world of jewelry.

When it comes to hope, many people look toward their religion for comfort. Cross jewelry, for example, can provide wearers with a great sense of hope. A prayer box, typically worn as a pendant or bracelet charm, is a small box that features a hinged lid. Many wearers enjoy placing a handwritten prayer inside, or possibly penned words of encouragement.

A dove may a small bird, but its symbolism is very significant. Many newlyweds release doves at their wedding, which can signify happiness and hope. The image of a dove in a jewelry accessory may provide the wearer with a sense of possibility or a new beginning.

To many, the symbol of an angel is reminiscent of a guardian, a protector and a symbol of hope. For those who choose to wear the image of an angel in their jewelry, they often feel comforted. As one of the most popular symbols in jewelry, the angel design is easily found in various pendant or charm styles.

If you still aren't sure which symbol best describes your definition of hope, think of something that you wish for. If you hope for sunnier days in your future, consider jewelry with a sun motif. If you're reaching for a goal, perhaps the image of a star would suit you well. If you are hoping for a little better luck in the coming year, perhaps the image of a clover, horseshoe, ladybug or an elephant would be your jewelry of choice.

In conclusion, the jewelry that you wear may or may not be anything more than a fashion statement. With so many trends on the forefront of fashion, it's often impossible to know what's 'hot' and what's 'not' on any given day. When choosing the pieces that you wear, however, it's worth noting that symbols of hope are timeless.

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