Egyptian Jewelry: Scarab Infestation

 

A scarab is a bug that has its iconographic roots in Egyptian ideology.  The Egyptians believed the scarab to be symbolic of the cycle of life–birth, roll up into a ball, eat, reproduce, give birth, die.  There’s something to be said for Egyptian priorities—so minimalist, yet so profound.  Scarabs were very prevalent in Egyptian jewelry and widely used for decorative purposes.  ”Egyptian Revival” is a term used to describe a period spanning from the late 18th to 19th centuries when designers applied Egyptian motifs to decorative arts and architecture.  It seems there is a revival of Egyptian Revival, what with the scarab infestation in costume jewelry lately.  Here are a few modern takes on Egyptian jewelry:

Beau & Arrow, Gold Scarab Ring

Roberto Cavalli, Ruthenium-plated Swarovski crystal scarab beetle clip earrings

Shourouk for Anthropologie, Lake Scarab Necklace

Alexis Bittar, Matte Gold Scarab Garden Ring

I’ll take a scarab infestation any day thank you.

Big Kiss and Bigger Diamonds,

JZP