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 have also influenced fashion. In ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, people already wore jewelry. However, in most cases, they served as amulets and charms from evil spirits. And in our time, jewelry made in the Greek and Egyptian style gained quite a lot of popularity. It can be both jewelry and jewelry.
What jewelry was made in ancient Egypt?
Ancient Egyptian jewelry was initially made from horn or stone, because at the time when these products were created, people still did not mine metal. Later, precious items were made of gold, silver, as well as bronze and copper.
Artisans of this state made such exquisite and unique designs that Egyptian jewelry was exported to many countries of the ancient world and was very highly valued at that time.
In ancient Egypt, both women and men wore jewelry as talismans. Many were buried along with their values, which were used in life, including jewelry.
Especially common in those days were signet rings, wide bracelets, as well as pendants, necklaces, earrings and pendants. Bracelets were worn not only on the hands, but also on the ankles. The Egyptian necklace, which could also fit the shoulders and chest , was also popular. This product is called "pectoral." According to legend, it was intended to protect the heart in which the soul is located. Often on the pectorals symbols of the heart itself were depicted, as well as other signs representing life and power. In addition, people from a noble family wore diadems decorated with precious stones and delicate patterns.
The use of stones in jewelry
Egyptian jewelry was 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 - mercy, and red stones - power.
Ancient egyptian symbols
The most common symbol in ancient Egypt was ujat, which was depicted as an oblong eye. It symbolized protection and healing. He was often painted on tombs to protect the soul of the deceased.
Ankh is a symbol of eternal life. Depicted as 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 it. In ancient Egypt, it was believed that such a talisman prolongs the life of a person whose name is inscribed on it, and protects it 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 symbolism
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 is very often depicted. Many Egyptian decorations were made with an ornament in the form of this beetle. Also, images of a scarab were often used on tombs and served as a symbol of the rebirth of the soul of a dead person.
Two ravens - this symbol meant a marriage between a man and a woman.
Snake with tail covered with the rest of the body. In ancient Egypt, it was depicted as a sign of eternity, the Greeks called this symbol "basilisk". The Egyptians themselves called such a snake "Ovarion."
Hawk. This bird symbolized the soul. This was clear from its ancient Egyptian name, which was a word uniting the concepts of “soul” and “heart” - then it was believed that the human soul is located in his heart.
The symbol of power was a stick, forked down, with a top depicting the head of a dog. The scepter, which looked like this, was depicted in the hands of the gods, and it was also owned by the pharaohs.
Egyptian-style jewelry nowadays
In the modern world, many ancient jewelry fascinate the eyes of museum visitors. And many jewelry manufacturers are trying to imitate the style of the ancient masters, creating elegant jewelry in the Egyptian style.
Nowadays, you can find jewelry or jewelry that is decorated with any of those ancient symbols that were listed above. Egyptian jewelry, photos of which you must have seen more than once, are now very popular. This is not surprising, since such original accessories will complement any, even the most sophisticated, image.
Nowadays, items that are copies of ancient jewelry found by archaeologists during excavations are also common.
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 happen to be in 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.