An Egyptian Scaraboid Gold Swivel Ring, New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty, ca. 1550 - 1295 BCE

This exquisite ring features an uninscribed scaraboid of fired grey-green steatite, carved in classic ovoid profile with a smooth domed back and a plain, flat underside. The stone shows the cool grey tone and softly polished surface typical of kiln-fired steatite of the New Kingdom. It is held within an ancient high-karat gold bezel, initially made for a swivel ring. 

The bezel has been adapted for modern wear with a new 14K gold shank, while preserving the integrity of the ancient setting. Our jeweler has cleverly integrated a modern high-karat swiveling element that threads through the original perforation and terminates with typical globular gold caps. This mechanism matches the ancient bezel seamlessly in both proportion and color, and the warmer tone of the bezel provides an attractive contrast against the cooler, slightly paler gold of the modern shank. The result is a ring that retains the spirit and function of an ancient swivel piece while remaining comfortable for everyday wear. A lovely example.

Background:  During the 18th Dynasty, scarabs and scaraboids were commonly used as personal seals and protective amulets. Gold swivel rings were designed to allow the stone to rotate, enabling an engraved base to be impressed into clay or wax. Even when uninscribed, scaraboids symbolized regeneration and personal identity, while gold settings were associated with individuals of higher status. The construction of this bezel reflects the New Kingdom tradition, showcasing a workshop practice that valued both aesthetic refinement and mechanical functionality.

Medium: Steatite, gold

Dimensions: US ring size 6 (UK=L 1/2, DE=17, CH=11, FR=51.9, EU=51.9, JP=11). Scaraboid length: 1/2 inch (1.27 cm)

Condition: The scaraboid is in excellent condition, although there is a minor loss in one area of the gold bezel setting that does not detract. Overall, the piece remains complete. It has been modern set, with all additions clearly identified and designed to be sympathetic to the original design.

Provenance: K.S. collection, UK, formed in the 1970s -1980s, and thence by inheritance to the present owner.