{"product_id":"egyptian-amethyst-scarab-amulet","title":"Egyptian Amethyst Scarab Amulet","description":"\u003cp\u003eMiddle Kingdom, Dynasty 11–13, circa 2025–1760 BCE\u003cbr\u003eCarved from a single nodule of rich royal violet-purple quartz mined from the prized royal desert quarries of Wadi el-Hudi, this scarab demonstrates the characteristic Middle Kingdom lapidary tradition where amethyst was primarily selected for personal protective jewelry and royal funerary adornment. The beetle is rendered with a smooth, domed carapace showing natural crystal color zoning, subtle internal veining, and a gently rounded profile, with the head, clypeus, and elytral separation softly contoured to emphasize the natural glow and gemological depth of the hardstone. The underside is carved flat and deliberately left uninscribed, a hallmark of Middle Kingdom hardstone scarabs where the intrinsic apotropaic power of the stone itself associated with solar rebirth, divine protection, and dawn renewal took precedence over administrative seal functions. \u003cbr\u003eThe amulet is drilled longitudinally through the center from both ends with an ancient copper-tube or wire lapidary drill, designed for stringing on a beaded necklace, cord, or swiveling wire hoop. Measuring 0.7 inches; 14 mm  length. It survives in excellent ancient condition with smooth burial handling polish, minor softened chipping around the terminal drill hole apertures, and stable natural stone inclusions. The base uninscribed;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvenance: Acquired at a NY decadents estate.  Rare.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Art for Eternity","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67609705185594,"sku":"17966","price":695.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0775\/5120\/6714\/files\/100604.jpg?v=1790800821","url":"https:\/\/howardnowes.com\/products\/egyptian-amethyst-scarab-amulet","provider":"Art for Eternity","version":"1.0","type":"link"}