Inspiration: Ancient Egypt

Hieroglyphics. Pyramids. Scarabs. Lotus flowers. Ankhs. Ra the Sun God. The Eye of Horus. The rich visual language of Ancient Egypt is inspiring jewelry design. Think of it as an Egyptian Revival Revival.

The first Egyptian Revival in the Nineteenth Century was literal. Obelisks and Pharaohs decorated piazzas and buildings. The second referenced tomb paintings and objects filtered through the geometry and modernism of Art Deco, adding geometric patterning and vivid inlay to the traditional motifs of scarabs and lotus blossoms.

Today, the inspiration is more abstract, using the iconic forms of hieroglyphics with triangular Art Deco patterning.

Still on an upswing, look for creative new interpretations of this Egyptian Revival Revival, particularly in inlay and enamel, in the year to come.

Worthy of Ra: the Olympia Necklace by Ana Khouri

Metropolitan Earrings with golden South Sea pearls by Autore

Scarabee Cuff with sapphires and tsavoriets by Aurelie Bidermann

Reversible Nefertiti Earrings by Featherstone Design — Lotus and Scarab Earrings by Featherstone Design

Pave Ankh Pendant from the Icon Collection by Lynn Ban

Devi Ring in tourmaline and sapphire by Daniela Villegas

Protection Signet Ring by Foundrae, photo courtesy of Memo Jewelry

Division Collar in abalone and gold-plated bronze by Lady Grey

Red Coral Gladiator Ring by Doryn Wallach

Geometric Diamond Earrings by Solange Azagury-Partridge

4 Comments

Mary Colclough 2 years Reply

I had a little Eye of Horus pendant that I bought in Egypt a few years ago ,backed by 14ct gold,which I loved.It was lovely and colourful and I have lost it!!I am heartbroken,and I was wondering if anyone on this site could put me in touch with a jeweller who could replace it for me. Eternally grateful,. Mary.
Rick 7 years Reply

Out of all the Egyptian jewelry on this site, I really love the Scarabee Cuff with sapphires and tsavoriets by Aurelie Bidermann. Is that a new design or is this piece a recreate from ancient times?
- Cheryl Kremkow 7 years Reply
  
  It’s a new design, Rick. It think it’s a great modern take on the theme even though it’s not at all like ancient Egyptian jewelry.

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