Mounted in an 18 karat gold ring.
The scarab beetle of ancient Egypt is an emblem
of the creator Kheper. The ward "kheper" denotes
being, existence, creation or becoming and the
god Khepera is the self-existent maker of all
things. The worship of the scarab, which is
symbolic of resurrection and fertility, dates from
the earliest period of civilization in Egypt. It was
thought that a sacred beetle rolled the orb of the
sun across the sky, and a winged scarab was
associated with dawn and rebirth. In the ritual of
mummification, a scarab replaced the heart.
Carved scarabs served two major functions: as
amulets with protective and religious powers and
as personal seals which designated the property
and authority of the individual whose name was
placed upon it. In both cases the power ascribed
to the scarab was very great. In life it served as
the signature of their owner and w as thought to
bring prosperity and in the afterlife it insured
continuous re-birth through eternity.
An intricate linear design highlights the under
side of this ancient scarab. The center portion of
the design is oval in shape, formed by double
incised lines. Over these lines two heart shape
sections are joined at the point. A straight line
runs the length of the design, connecting the
three sections together and ending in two short
perpendicular lines. Delicate of shape and
modeling, this fascinating pattern evidences the
creative spirit that flowed from the ancient
Egyptian craftsmen. The stylized carved beetle
atop the scarab further displays their heightened
sensitivity to the natural world. How fortunate we
are to be able to enjoy today, this stunning work
of ancient Egyptian art.
- (FJ.5102)
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