Egyptian Revival scarab amulet pendant carved from lapis lazuli, ca. 1930s. Lapis lazuli was a favorite stone for amulets and ornaments such as scarabs. The amulet with its rich hue mimics the night sky, the Egyptians believed it offered protection and guidance in the afterlife. The scarab beetle was a sacred symbol in ancient Egypt, representing rebirth and eternal cycle of life. This is because the Egyptians thought the scarab moved the sun across the sky each day.
 
The scarab is suspended from a small piece of gold robed chain. The small chain has an enameled round bead in the center. The enamel includes a rich lapis colored blue, light blue, and a coral color. The back of the scarab has a raised engraving of 3 Egyptian figures holding hands. 
 
The Egyptian Revival reached its peak during the 1930s, this was largely due to the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922. The Egyptian Revival highly influenced the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s. 
 
The pendant is in good condition. 
 
Dimensions: 3 1/2 in.       Weight: 22 grams