Emblems were usually animals such as a griffin, a hawk, a lion, a scorpion, and so forth. Each man would have a signet ring which bore his family emblem. Jewelry was worn not only for adornment and protection, but for legal authentication. Due to the hot, arid climate, most clothing was simple and lightweight, so jewelry allowed the ancient Egyptians the means to display their wealth and status as well as protect themselves from evil spirits. Buttons were used strictly for decoration, they served no function other than that.Īncient Egyptians loved to adorn their bodies with jewelry. Fake pearls, emeralds, and tiger's eye stones became almost indistinguishable from the real thing. This prompted the jewelers of the time to perfect the craftsmanship of artificial gemstones. Those of lower birth or those who had limited means used bone and stone for their jewelry, and buttons were very popular.

Carnelian, which was believed to purify the blood, symbolized stability and protection.

Turquoise, which symbolized life and happiness.

Garnet, which symbolized the extremes of anger and fire, and victory and life.

Emeralds, which were for immortality and fertility.

Other gemstones used in ancient Egyptian jewelry included: Polychrome glass was used for colorful jewelry and beads, as well as for pottery, in vivid hues of green, red, yellow, and blue. © Ashley Van Haeften - Gold Amulet with Stone Inserts

Mummy decorated with gold and jewels