In a dazzling testament to the opulence and sophistication of ancient Egypt, archaeologists have uncovered 11 breathtaking pieces of jewelry that showcase the unparalleled craftsmanship and artistic mastery of this illustrious civilization.

Gold collar from the treasure of the royal tombs Tanis, ca. 1070-712 B.C. – Cairo Museum

In ancient Egypt, women, men and children, from poor families to royalties wore the best colorful jewelry they could afford. The material from which jewelry was made differed according to their wealth and status. Nonetheless,necklaces, bracelets, neck collars, pendants, earrings, armbands, rings and amulets adorned their necks, wrists, ears, fingers and ankles.

The Ancient Egyptian Pectoral of Prince Khaemweset, son of Rameses II. 18th Dynasty,  Louvre, France.

Wealthy Egyptians wore lavish jewelry made of gold, semi-precious stones and colored glᴀss, which was rare when first discovered and very expensive. They loved pieces designed with scrolls, tigers, scarab beetles, winged birds, jackals, antelopes and snakes. The mᴀsses wore jewelry made of copper and colored beads, made of painted clay, stones, animal teeth and bones. Silver was a rarity in Egypt, and hardly used.

Necklace with falcon pendant, Ancient Egypt, Located in the Egyptian Museum, Cairo, Egypt

Egyptians wore jewelry not just for adornment, but also because they believed in their magical powers. Jewelry brought them good fortune, protected them from diseases and evil eyes, and warded off malevolent spirits, both during their life and in their afterlife, as they also wore their jewelry after death. Royals and nobles were buried with their jewelry, which allowed archeological excavations to discover these treasures; exhibited in museums in Egypt and around the world.