This cast-glass link bracelet features a strand of luminous scarabs and a simple toggle closure for easy wear. Scarabs were worn as magical amulets in the ancient world, symbolizing protection and renewal. The original model was created from an authentic ancient scarab, then used to cast each glass form, inspired by examples in the Museum’s collection. Made exclusively for the Getty Museum.

- Dimensions: 6 3/4 inches L with 1 inch extender
- Materials: Glass, 24K gold-plate, brass, toggle closure
- Made in the USA
- Item #: 129Q

Carved scarabs, modeled after the dung beetle, were a potent symbol of rebirth, resurrection, and the life-giving sun in ancient Egypt and Nubia. This association made scarabs one of the most popular amuletic adornments throughout these civilizations. Typically pierced and fashioned as a ring or pendant, their significance through time yielded more diversity in material and craftsmanship. Gold swivel rings were designed to flip between a delicately incised scarab or a stamp seal on the opposing side. The carvings displayed on the intaglio underside were believed to imbue magical qualities that shielded their wearers from malevolent forces. Heart scarabs, an inscribed funerary amulet placed near a mummy's heart, afforded powerful protection to the deceased.

Scarab. 4th-3rd century BCE
Almandine Garnet, 0.8 × 1.1 × 0.8 cm (5/16 × 7/16 × 5/16 in.)
J. Paul Getty Museum, 81.AN.76.142