On November 23rd, Israel’s   Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Museum in Ramat Gan will feature an exhibition of rare Egyptian scarabs.  “The exhibition, entitled Protective Force: Egyptian Scarabs from Gemstones, will explore the significant role of gemstones in ancient Egyptian culture as well as the fascination with scarabs throughout history,” said the IDI in a press release announcing the exhibition.

The collection of scarabs, hitherto undisplayed, comes to the diamond museum from The Israel Museum in Jerusalem. The collection boasts of scarabs made from a variety of gemstones, some of which have inscriptions engraved on them. It also has Victorian jewellery pieces set with scarabs, indicating the fascination they hold for jewellery lovers through the ages and across cultures.

“Scarabs were the most popular amulets in ancient Egypt, from the time of the Middle Kingdom until the Ptolemaic Period,” the press release stated giving a background on the scarabs. “Based on the image of the dung beetle, they were seen to represent the heavenly cycle of rebirth and therefore signified renewed growth.  Primarily used as amulets for protection or good luck, scarabs were often used in ceremonies and were buried with the dead. In addition scarabs were used as personal or administrative seals or were incorporated into jewellery.”

Jewellery was an integral part of Ancient Egyptian culture and worn by both men and women. Jewellery was believed “to possess magical powers, and was used as a talisman for good luck or protection for the living or for the dead”.

 The scarab was also adopted by neighbouring cultures that the Egyptians invaded. “In modern times the scarab has continued to fascinate due to the beauty of the gemstones, the artistry of the ancients and the historical narratives they represent,” the IDI said.  

Pic Cap: Victorian gold necklace with ancient scarabs and amulets.