The Importance of Jewellery in Ancient Egypt

The Importance of Jewellery in Ancient Egypt

Ancient Egypt is frequently described as a stratified society. Jewellery, on the other hand, was available to every Egyptian, from the youngest child to the oldest priest, from the poorest farmer to the pharaoh. Jewellery was made, worn, offered, gifted, buried, stolen, appreciated, and lost across genders, generations, and classes from the predynastic to the Roman eras. Egyptians adorned themselves with jewellery such as rings, earrings, bracelets, pectorals, necklaces, crowns, and amulets.

Materials used in Ancient Egyptian Jewellery

In ancient Egypt, everyone wore jewellery, from poor farmers to wealthy royals. Semi-precious stones, precious metals, and glass beads were used to create pieces for the wealthy. These were replaced by the poor with painted clay, stones, shells, animal teeth, and bones.

Jewellery as a status symbol

During this historical period, jewellery was mainly considered a status symbol. Pharaohs, in particular, wore elaborate ensembles with arm cuffs, necklaces, collars, rings, and even wig adornments. For these pieces, they used the most precious and expensive materials.

The healing properties of Jewellery

Egyptians were firm believers in the spiritual significance of jewellery. It was worn to ward off evil spirits, protect their wealth, and bring them good fortune. Certain colours, patterns, and materials were linked to supernatural powers and deities. Protective amulets and were also popular in during this period and they were frequently combined with Egyptian jewellery. These amulets were talismans or charms that were thought to bestow power on the amulet or to protect the wearer. The amulets were carved in a variety of shapes and forms, such as symbols, humans, animals, and gods. Furthermore, amulets were regarded as significant protectors of both the living and the dead. As was customary in ancient Egypt, amulets were made specifically for the afterlife.

Jewellery and the afterlife  

Jewllrey also played important part in the burial process thoroughly ancient Egypt. Certain types of jewellery, such as amulets, were thought to benefit them in the afterlife, similar to how deceased pharaohs are given gold and other valuables in their tombs. The idea was that putting these items in the tomb would help the deceased be fruitful and prosperous after death.

The Nefertiti Collection 

We've taken the inspiration from Egypt's rich history and turned into an amazing jewellery collection. The Nefertiti collection features stunning Egyptian-inspired  jewellery using an intricate array of symbols including the ankh (symbol of life), the heart symbolizing love, the Empress Column representing royal power, and the almighty Queen's throne paying tribute to a true Queen—Nefertiti herself.
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