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The scarab beetle is a real beetle, a
common beetle. To the ancient Egyptians, this common beetle symbolized
hope and the restoration of life. They used the design of a scarab
beetle in many ways.
Seals were created in the shape of a
scarab and used to stamp documents. Artisans made scarab jewelry using
precious gems and painted clay. The same design was used to make good
luck charms and amulets to ward off evil.
In ancient Egypt, scarab jewelry, good
luck charms, and amulets were often given as gifts. An inscription was
often added with the name of the owner and perhaps a motto or a
message, like, "good luck in your new job".
Scarabs came in many designs including
winged scarabs. The colors were rich and beautiful. Blue symbolized
the Nile River. Red symbolized Ra. There were touches of yellow for
the desert and sun. Green was used to emphasis growth.
Over time, the scarab became a sacred
symbol.
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