The History of Scarab Jewellery: Ancient Egypt's Most Powerful Symbol
For more than 4,000 years, the scarab has remained one of the most enduring symbols in jewellery. Revered by the ancient Egyptians as an emblem of rebirth, transformation and protection, the scarab continues to captivate collectors, historians and jewellery lovers alike.
At Karen Liberman Jewellery, the fascination with ancient artefacts has always informed our collections. Every scarab sourced or carved carries echoes of the ancient world — objects once believed to possess spiritual power, now transformed into contemporary heirlooms handcrafted in gold.
What is a Scarab?
The scarab is inspired by the scarab beetle, a small dung beetle native to North Africa. While seemingly ordinary, ancient Egyptians observed the beetle carefully and believed its behaviour mirrored the movement of the sun across the sky.
As the beetle rolled a sphere of dung across the desert, it reminded them of the sun god Khepri, who was believed to push the rising sun across the heavens each morning. This daily cycle became a powerful symbol of renewal, resurrection and the promise of new beginnings.
From this observation emerged one of history's most recognisable motifs: the Egyptian scarab.
The Scarab's Meaning in Ancient Egypt
The scarab quickly became one of the most significant symbols within ancient Egyptian culture.
Rather than representing wealth alone, scarab amulets were believed to offer:
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Protection from negative forces
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Good fortune
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Personal transformation
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Eternal life
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Rebirth and renewal
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Spiritual guidance
Scarab amulets accompanied Egyptians throughout every stage of life. They were worn as jewellery, carried as protective talismans and even placed within tombs to safeguard the soul during its journey into the afterlife.
Perhaps the most famous example is the Heart Scarab, positioned over the chest during burial ceremonies. Inscribed with passages from the Book of the Dead, these sacred objects were believed to prevent the heart from speaking against its owner during judgement before the gods.
Heart Scarab of Hatnefer (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)
Scarab Jewellery Through History
As Egyptian civilisation flourished, scarab jewellery became increasingly elaborate.
Artisans carved scarabs from treasured materials including:
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Lapis lazuli
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Carnelian
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Turquoise
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Jasper
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Faience
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Quartz
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Agate
Many were engraved underneath with hieroglyphics, prayers, royal names or blessings before being mounted into rings, necklaces, bracelets and ceremonial pendants.
Gold, regarded as the flesh of the gods, was often used to frame these miniature works of art. Its permanence perfectly complemented the scarab's symbolism of eternity.
Thousands of years later, these ancient carvings continue to survive remarkably well, allowing modern jewellers and collectors to appreciate both their artistry and historical significance.
Scarab Bracelet of Tutankhamun (Egypt Museum)
Why Scarab Jewellery Remains Timeless
Few jewellery motifs have endured across millennia with such relevance.
Today, scarab jewellery is cherished not simply for its beauty but for the story it carries. Each scarab represents resilience, transformation and the idea that life continually renews itself.
Many people are drawn to scarab jewellery during periods of personal growth — a new chapter, career change, marriage, motherhood or simply a reminder to embrace change with optimism.
Unlike trends that come and go, symbols rooted in history possess an enduring emotional value.
Discover Scarab Jewellery by Karen Liberman
Every Karen Liberman scarab is sourced or carved for its individuality before being transformed into a handcrafted work of art.
Each scarab is individually framed in handcrafted 18k or 22k gold by artisan goldsmiths using traditional techniques that honour both the ancient object and the craftsmanship surrounding it.
Combining ancient Egyptian symbolism with contemporary goldsmithing, each piece honours thousands of years of history while becoming part of a new story — yours.
Whether worn as a scarab necklace, earrings, or treasured bracelet, these remarkable pieces continue to embody one of humanity's oldest symbols of transformation, making them timeless additions to any jewellery collection.
18k Gold Scarab Cuff Bracelet with Diamonds & Tourmaline
22k Gold Scarab Carved Moonstone Stud Earrings
Carved Turquoise Scarab Necklace in 18k Gold with Diamonds & Gold Tassels
18k Gold Scarab Cuff Bracelet | Diamonds & Tourmaline (Karen Liberman Jewellery)
