Measurements:
- Skinny one in the photo is 35x20x15mm
- Thickest one in the photo is 25x23x16mm
- Light Blue one in the photo is 34x23x13mm
Quantity per Pack: 1
Because every single bead is handmade they are all different. Therefore, we need to choose them at random when you order them.
The sizes in the photos are listed below - as you can see they are vastly different!
Scarab Beads - the information we have on these is a bit sketchy, but they are old, authentic pieces from Egypt, circa 1960s.
Our scarabs have been made by hand carving Faience, which is a handmade clay - one of the oldest techniques of clay ever made - and they are then covered in a glaze. They were made during the Egyptian revival period. circa 1960s. Around the 1920s archaeological discoveries such as the excavation of the pyramids in Giza sparked new interest in Egyptian jewellery.
About these beads --- Ancient faience beads were made from a non-clay based ceramic of quartz and sand, the oldest known artificial substance, used in Egypt five and a half thousand years ago. The ceramic was rolled or calved then glazed before being fired.
Modern faience --- is made from crushed soapstone which results in a smoother finish than the ancient version. Although, you will note from the photos that the beads are still pretty rough and ready!
If you order more than 1, and want of them all matching, or all different, please comment at checkout. We will do our best to accommodate you!
Why is the scarab sacred?
The scarab-beetle was the symbol of the Sun-god and as such could stimulate the deceased's heart to life. The scarab-beetle was the symbol of “transformations,” whereby the deceased could make any “changes” into whatever his heart desired.
The scarab was an amulet or lucky charm placed on the heart to protect it on its journey to the afterlife. The heart was the only organ left in a body when it was mummified.
What is the meaning of scarab jewelry?
Along with embodying the concept of existence, development, and growth, the scarab was revered for representing the cycle of life and death: "It was seen as a form of protection," Love explains. The extraordinary bestial was therefore carved or molded into treasured accessories and amulets throughout centuries.
What does the Egyptian scarab symbolize?
The Egyptians saw the Egyptian scarab (Scarabaeus sacer) as a symbol of renewal and rebirth.