Seals in jewelry: Mesopotamian cylinders, scarabs and intaglios

Before the signature there was the seal: an object with a design cut in intaglio that was pressed into clay or wax. Many seals were also jewelry, because they were worn on a cord around the neck or on a ring.

Cylinder seals of Mesopotamia #

For over five thousand years, stone cylinders were carved in Mesopotamia and rolled over soft clay to leave a relief scene. They were worn hung from a cord or a pin.

Egyptian scarabs #

Seals in the form of the scarab were used as amulets and as seals. They were carved in stones such as carnelian, amethyst or lapis lazuli.

Greek and Roman intaglios #

These were gems engraved in intaglio, mounted in rings, with portraits, gods and animals. They were used to seal letters and as jewelry.

Seals in East Asia #

In China, Japan and Korea, the personal seal (the Chinese “chop” or the Japanese hanko) replaces the signature. It is carved in stone, jade, wood or ivory, and used in calligraphy and painting.

Today #

Seals live on as rings (signet rings), pendants and collectibles.

See also #

• Signet rings: history, engraving and how to wear them
• Jewelry and amulets of ancient Egypt
• Lapis lazuli