Ancient history has always attracted many people, because it is full of heroic events and unsolved mysteries. Ancient customs are reflected in many areas of human life, and they also influenced fashion. In ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, people already wore jewelry. However, in most cases they served as amulets and amulets against evil spirits. And in our time, jewelry made in the Greek and Egyptian style has become quite popular. It can be both jewelry and bijouterie.
What jewelry was made in Ancient Egypt?
Ancient Egyptian jewelry was originally made of horn or stone, because at the time when these products were created, people had not yet mined metal. Later, precious items made of gold, silver, as well as bronze and copper began to be made.
The artisans of this state made such exquisite and unique designs that Egyptian jewelry was exported to many countries of the ancient world and was highly valued at that time.
During ancient Egypt, both women and men wore jewelry as talismans. Many were buriedalong with their valuables that were used in life, including jewelry.
Especially common in those days were seal rings, wide bracelets, as well as pendants, necklaces, earrings and pendants. Bracelets were worn not only on the hands, but also on the ankles. Also popular was the Egyptian neck decoration, which could also fit the shoulders and chest. Such a product is called "pectoral". According to beliefs, it was designed to protect the heart, in which the soul is located. Often the symbols of the heart itself were depicted on the pectorals, as well as other signs that personified life and power. In addition, people from a noble family wore tiaras adorned with precious stones and fine patterns.
Using stones in jewelry
Egyptian jewelry was very often adorned with precious stones, the most common of which were turquoise, onyx, lapis lazuli, amethyst, opal, garnet. These minerals were also often present in the decoration of expensive clothes, belts and other products. Turquoise symbolized joy, lapis lazuli symbolized mercy, and red stones symbolized power.
Ancient Egyptian symbols
The most common symbol in ancient Egypt was the ujat, which was depicted as an oblong eye. It symbolized protection and healing. It was often painted on tombs to protect the soul of the deceased.
Ankh is a symbol of eternal life. Depicted in the form of a cross with a ring at the top. This sign remains very popular in modern times, most often it is used in pendants.
Shenu is a rope ring with a name written inside. In ancient Egypt, it was believed that such a talisman prolongs the life of a person whose name is inscribed on it, and protects him from adversity.
Plants in Egyptian symbols
The lotus flower is one of the most common symbols of Ancient Egypt. This plant represents rebirth, creation and the sun. According to mythology, the sun in the sky appeared from a huge lotus flower that arose from the ocean. Egyptian jewelry very often contained elements in the form of this plant.
Images of animals in ancient Egyptian symbols
The most common symbol was the scarab beetle. He was associated with the rising of the sun and the rebirth of the soul. This insect has been depicted very often. Many Egyptian jewelry was made with this beetle. Also, images of the scarab were often used on tombs and served as a symbol of the rebirth of the soul of a deceased person.
Two crows - this symbol meant marriage between a man and a woman.
A snake with a tail covered by the rest of the body. In ancient Egypt, it was depicted as a sign of eternity, the Greeks called such a symbol "basilisk". The Egyptians themselves called such a snake "Ouarion".
Hawk. This bird symbolized the soul. This was clear from its ancient Egyptian name, which was a word that combines the concepts of "soul" and "heart" - then it was believed that the human soul is located precisely inhis heart.
The symbol of power was a stick, forked downwards, with a top depicting a dog's head. The scepter, which looked like this, was depicted in the hands of the gods, and it was also wielded by the pharaohs.
Egyptian-style jewelry in our time
In today's world, many ancient pieces of jewelry fascinate museum visitors. And many jewelry makers try to emulate the style of the ancient masters by creating elegant Egyptian-style jewelry.
In our time, you can find jewelry or bijouterie that is decorated with any of those ancient symbols that were listed above. Egyptian jewelry, photos of which you have probably seen more than once, are now very popular. This is not surprising, since such original accessories will complement any, even the most sophisticated look.
Now there are also products that are copies of ancient jewelry found by archaeologists during excavations.
One of the most popular jewelry in the Egyptian style is a bracelet that contains precious stones: onyx, lapis lazuli, turquoise and others. If you happened to visit Egypt, then as a reminder of the trip, you can buy such an accessory that will be an exquisite addition to your elegant look. True, it is unlikely to cost you cheaply.
