Egyptian Stone Beads and Amulets

The New Kingdom of Egypt, c. 1550–1069 BC, Egypt

A magnificent set of ancient beads and amulets, beautifully restrung, composed of core glass, faience, pottery, and a rich variety of semi-precious stones including carnelian, agate, alabaster, and quartz. These artifacts once formed part of vibrant beadwork in ancient Egypt, worn by both commoners and nobility for decoration, protection, and spiritual significance.

A standout feature of this set is the use of Egyptian faience (tjehenet), the earliest known man-made ceramic material. Made from quartz, alkaline salts, lime, and metallic colorants, faience was admired for its luminous glaze and was often colored in vivid blues and greens—hues that symbolized the Nile, the heavens, and the cycle of rebirth.

This elegant and timeless set reflects the aesthetic sophistication and deeply symbolic culture of New Kingdom Egypt, making it an exceptional piece for collectors and historians alike.

Good condition. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, nicks and chip. 12 unique beads and amulets. Collected in the early 20th century. Cotton string is modern. Individual bead size varies from 0,6cm to 1,1cm. 

Provenance: Dutch private collection

References and further reading:

Egyptian Faiance: Technology and Production, Carolyn Riccardelli, Department of Objects Conservation, December 2017, The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Ancient Technology: Faiance Beads in the Garstang Museum, Garstang Museum of Archaeology.

Gifts of the Nile: Ancient Egyptian Faiance, Friedman, Florence Dunn, Thames and Hudson, London, 1998.