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Throughout
Victoria's reign, jewellers were inspired by styles of the
past and design was influenced by several "revival"
periods; in the case of Egyptian Revival, inspiration came
from the treasures uncovered by British explorers and archaeologists.
The
Victorians had developed a fascination with nature and the
beauty of “God’s work.” The splendour of
natural design had already seen jewels take the form of insects
and animals, either elaborately sculpted from precious metals
and gems or quite literally created from real insects or parts
of animals.
This,
together with their love of symbolism was the basis for the
re-introduction of Scarab jewellery.
The
Ancient Egyptians believed them to be symbolic of rebirth
and immortality, and adorned themselves and their possessions
with carvings of scarabs. Whilst the rarity and cost of genuine
Egyptian scarab pieces were obstacles for the Victorian people,
demand for the design saw them quickly integrated into English
jewellery.
Genuine
Scarab jewellery is not only incredibly collectable but also
becoming increasingly prized as investment pieces. In good
condition, quality pieces are set to rise in value –
and in the meantime are more wearable than you would imagine.
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Please
click on the images for additional photographs.
An
original late Victorian necklace, bracelet and earrings
demi-parure, set in 9 Carat Gold and featuring 18
lustrous little scarab beetles.
Each
scarab beetle has been incased in gold "foil"
and enamelled with the same shade of vivid green that
the creatures would have originally displayed. Many
cheaper and more delicate items also have real beetles
but they are not incased and instead paint has been
applied directly to the shell. Each gold case has
been moulded around the beetle so that the features
are all present and each is beautifully detailed.
The
bracelet is a curb link and in perfect condition.
It features seven individual scarabs interspaced along
the links and has retained its original safety chain.
It measures 7" in length.
The
necklace is simply breathtaking when worn and features
an unusual parallel chain design with a row of nine
scarabs holding the chains together. Again this is
in excellent condition and measures 16" in length.
The
earrings are screw back, and have a delicate twisted
gold rope frame surrounding each scarab. They too
are in good condition and measure 0.5" (14mm)
in length.
The
vibrant greens and blues of the scarabs is utterly
mesmerising, and simply stunning against the Gold.
A fascinating and beautiful piece, which is not only
very wearable but also highly collectable.
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aslc399 - £1,750.00
$3,350.00 USD (approx)
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