Egyptian-Inspired Ankh Necklace with Lapis, Carnelian, and Aventurine Beads

The Key of Life Among Colored Stones: The Ankh Bead Necklace

A gold ankh hangs at the center of teardrop beads in lapis blue, carnelian red and aventurine green. This ankh bead necklace is about 16 in, or 40 cm, long.

The teardrop bead ankh necklace is a reproduction of an ancient Egyptian design.

Product Details

• Material: 24 Karat antique gold plated pewter ankh, with gold-filled beads
• Stones: Teardrop lapis lazuli, aventurine and carnelian beads
• Length: About 16 in (40 cm)
• Style: Lapis carnelian aventurine necklace, Egyptian life symbol necklace
• Origin: Made in USA

The Sign for Life

The ankh was the Egyptian hieroglyph for life. Gods are shown holding it to the king's nose to give the breath of life.

The sign also meant mirror, which explains why mirror cases took its shape.

A Popular Theory

Some writers join the T-cross of Osiris and the oval of Isis, uniting heaven and earth. That reading is popular but not proven.

Three Stones

Lapis lazuli, carnelian and green aventurine give the ankh a bright setting. Egyptians prized lapis and carnelian especially.

A lapis carnelian aventurine necklace has a lively palette.

Wearing and Display

Wear the ankh bead necklace over plain tops so the colors show. Wipe with a soft cloth.

An Egyptian life symbol necklace suits any season. See more in our Egyptian Museum Replicas and Museum Jewelry Necklaces.

About the Ankh

Coptic Christians later turned the ankh into a looped cross. This ankh bead necklace belongs to that long afterlife. The teardrop bead ankh necklace keeps the old sign vivid.

For More Reading from the Web

• Read the theories of the ankh's shape, from a sandal strap to a mirror. An Egyptian life symbol necklace has much to say. Ankh - Wikipedia