Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Earrings with Egyptian Lapis Lazuli and carnelian beads in a handmade design. The ancient beads are restrung with modern materials and fittings. Total length: ± 41 mm Diameter beads: ± 5,6 mm maximum Condition: good condition and wearable. The ancient beads are restrung and combined with modern gold-plated spacer beads and fittings. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. See images. Composed with beads originating from various old collections, acquired in the UK between 2016-2024. Every ancient bead shows subtle variations and signs of age, reflecting its history and adding to the unique charm of every composition. Certificate of Authenticity (PDF) is available upon request. Lapis Lazuli was associated with strength, courage, royalty, wisdom and truth. The dark blue colour reminded the Egyptian of the night skies and the gold pyrite flecks as the stars. It was favoured by the Egyptian pharaohs and was famously used in the burial mask of King Tutankhamun. The Egyptians believed carnelian had magical powers; it was believed it could ward off evil, help the blood circulation and make the skin look healthy and youthful. Carnelian was known as the 'Blood of Isis' (Goddess of nature and guide of souls to the Underworld). Accordingly, a carnelian amulet called a 'thet' was placed on mummies to assist the dead in their journey to the afterlife. The Egyptian faith in carnelian was so strong that, along with turquoise and lapis lazuli, it was the most used stone in ancient Egyptian jewellery.