# Seals in jewelry: Mesopotamian cylinders, scarabs and intaglios

> Engraved stone seals are among the oldest jewels: Mesopotamian cylinders, Egyptian scarabs, Roman intaglios and Chinese seals; what they are and how they were used.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/seals-in-jewelry/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-09-29
- Updated: 2026-09-29
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/sellos-en-joyeria/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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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](https://www.711grados.com/en/ancient-egyptian-jewelry/) were used as amulets and as seals. They were carved in stones such as carnelian, amethyst or [lapis lazuli](https://www.711grados.com/en/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](https://www.711grados.com/en/signet-rings/)), pendants and collectibles.

## See also

- [Signet rings: history, engraving and how to wear them](https://www.711grados.com/en/signet-rings/)
- [Jewelry and amulets of ancient Egypt](https://www.711grados.com/en/ancient-egyptian-jewelry/)
- [Lapis lazuli](https://www.711grados.com/en/lapis-lazuli/)