Posted 9 years ago
BelleEpoque
(98 items)
This ring is very special. It is made of high carat gold and features an original miniature Egyptian scarab amulet. This seems to be made of turquoise or steatite (soapstone), and bears a cartouche with a name. From what I have been able to find out, the hieroglyph appears to correspond to Pharao Thoetmosis III, who ruled 1479-1425 BC. The amulet probably made its way to Europe in the Egyptian craze of the 19th century and was set on the gold band with an Egyptian style. I have seen examples of this type of ring from the whole of the 19th century. This one is unmarked so I'm not sure of the age. Normally, the scarab swivels with the bezel, but on this one only the amulet swivels. Anyway, I would appreciate if anyone could say anything regarding age, origin, or the reading of the cartouche.
Lot of search on this cutie! Lovely BUG!!!
Usually these amulets were made of ceramic or frit:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frit
Thanks, kyra! You're right, scarabs were often of ceramic but this tiny one is of a carved soft stone. I suppose that makes it more special!! Thanks also for loving, aghcollect and Sean :)