Egyptian Symbols Necklace

$175.00 at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Art jewelry makes a unique gift for her. This striking necklace borrows the protective motifs on a so-called magic rod (ca. 1878–1640 BCE) used in ancient Egypt to ward off harmful spirits, and reimagines them as ornamental charms. The only completely preserved example of its kind, the Museum's rod is composed of four joining segments, perhaps related to the four "birthing bricks" arranged for the defense of a mother and her baby during delivery. A procession of animals, including feline predators…