Ancient Amulets

From the time of its humble beginnings as bones, teeth, and sinew, jewelry has often had a meaning beyond personal adornment. Many cultures, past and present, have represented certain powers or concepts as talismans - small objects usually worn or carried to aid or protect the bearer. Here, you'll find jewelry that reflects this tradition, featuring totems and symbols that have been shaped by centuries of reverence into beautifully stylized forms.

Double Ouroboros Pendant

The ouroboros is an ancient symbol found in many different cultures. Often shown as a single snake swallowing or biting its own tail, it represents beginnings and endings, death and rebirth, and the cyclical nature of existence. A double ouroboros, like this pair of entwined rattlesnakes, can also reflect the balance of opposing forces.

This substantial 1 1/8" sterling ouroboros pendant features a sleekly simple fixed ring bail. The richly textured 20" wheat-link chain is included.

$65.00

Djed Pillar

The djed pillar was one of the most common Egyptian funerary amulets. Thought to represent a bound tamarisk tree trunk as well as stylized vertebrae, the djed is closely identified with the death of the god Osiris and his ressurection at the hand of his wife, Isis. The djed pillar is thus a symbol of eternal life, eternal love, and lasting stability.

This sterling djed, 1 1/4" high, is modeled after faience originals. It is available as a tack-style pin or a pendant; pendant includes an 18" sterling rope chain.

Pin: $15.00

Pendant: $20.00

Fly of Valor

Ancient Egyptians were all too familiar with the single-minded persistence of biting flies - so much so that flies came to represent tenacity and viciousness in battle and were presented to the best warriors as symbols of valor.

This 7/16&qu ot; tack pin, available in bronze or sterling, was modeled after originals in the British Museum. Award one to your bravest warrior - or favorite pest.

Bronze: $7.00

Sterling: $10.00

Tyet Pin and Pendant

The tyet is one of the most mysterious amulets of ancient Egypt, as well as one of the most common. It is closely associated with the goddess Isis and is sometimes referred to as the "Blood of Isis." The tyet is believed to have represented feminine powers and was worn for protection against ailments peculiar to women.

This faithful reproduction of ancient tyet amulets measures 7/8" in length. It is available as a tack pin or as a pendant on a fine 18" sterling rope chain.

Pin: $15.00

Pendant: $20.00

Egyptian Bee Pin

The ancient Egyptians were among the first people to practice apiculture, using pottery vessels as their hives. Bees provided wax, which was used in perfume cones, varnish sealants, and lost-wax casting; and honey, which was used (among other things) to sweeten beer. The bee amulet had another meaning: combined with the image of the reed, it translated as nsw-bity, one of the earliest titles of the king of Upper and Lower Egypt.

This 1/2" tack-style pin is based on several examples of this sleekly stylized Egyptian motif.

$12.00

Chinese "Jade" Cicada

Highly stylized jade cicadas, symbolizing rebirth and renewal, have been a part of traditional Chinese culture since the Han Dynasty. In Buddhist tradition, they reflect the transcendence of the spirit from earthly things.

Silverspot Studio's 1 1/4" "Jade" Cicada Pendant, cast in solid sterling silver, now has an updated look, featuring a sterling silver bead that binds an 18" leather cord with a sterling clasp. Click on the image to see the detailed reverse side!

$45.00

"Jade" Cicada Tack Pin

Based on the same original as the pendant, but on a smaller scale, this little (11/16") pin will prevent your tie from ascending to a higher plane.

$15.00

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All content © 2005, Jessee Smith and Gene Kritsky. Website design by Jessee Smith.