Jewelry making is believed to be pioneered by the Egyptians. In ancient Egypt, both men and women wore elegantly designed and crafted jewelry not just for ornamentation, but also to ward off evil sprits and curses. They wore bracelets, amulets, earrings and anklets. The rich families wore necklaces, pendants, and a beaded collar called a ‘wesekh’; their jewelry was made of silver, gold and electrum. Their jewelry was adorned with semi-precious gems. The less privileged people wore jewelry made out of copper and faience. Specific gems were associated with specific gods and spiritual significance. Egyptian royalty employed their own gold smiths and jewelers; they believed that ‘Pharos’, the Egyptian kings, could carry forward valuable possessions after their demise to their after life. Therefore, when a ‘Pharo’ died, he was buried with large amounts of rare and expensive jewelry.
Modern Egyptian jewelry is similar to the ancient jewelry styles. Possibly the most popular piece of modern Egyptian jewelry is the Cartouche. The word ‘Cartouche’ is derived from a French word meaning 'gun cartridge'. First found by Napoleon's soldiers, these oval shaped etchings were termed so because they were similar to gun cartridges, or bullets. Personalized versions of these can be made by inscribing one’s name or chosen English or Arabic hieroglyphics on it. Some other examples of modern Egyptian jewelry include Cartouches, Isis jewelry, Ankh or Key of Life jewelry, King Tut jewelry, the Eye of Horus jewelry, jewelry of the Lotus Flower, Sacred Scarab jewelry, Papyrus jewelry, Evil Eye jewelry, and jewelry inspired by the Egyptian queens - Nefertiti and Cleopatra. These jewels are made of gold, silver, platinum and imitation metals.
In ancient Egypt, jewelry was a way of life. Today modern Egyptian jewelry is a form of status quo. Egyptian jewelry is still worn on the pretext of warding off evil and as good luck charms or otherwise as a fashion statement. Worn by men and women, Egyptian jewelry is a blend of intricate designs and vibrant colors with depictions of ancient Egyptian life styles and symbols. |
