The most important amulet in ancient Egypt was the scarab, a dung beetle thought to roll the sun across the sky. They were used as seals and also as gifts to friends. Most were made of soapstone (steatite).

Donor: Keela Rodgers

Rectangular tabular plaques were also common. They were often inscribed on both sides. Notice the same message on the scarab and the left plaque. It is common, perhaps a good will wish. The plaque on the right is faience.

Left donated by Keela Rogers

Two stone amulets. The one on the left is a Djed pillar, a symbol of stability. The one on the right is a mason's A form, with one leg broken. The Djed was a common amulet, but the A was probably only used by masons in life or death.

A stone Udjat. This is the Eye of Horus, son of Isis. It also serves to ward off the Evil Eye, a common superstition in the Middle East. The carved outline of the eyes and eyebrows on top are barely visible on the dark stone.

A variety of stone amulets. They are: upper left an Udjat; lower left a fish; center left a man or monkey; right center a hawk; far right a man. These are as crude as their faience counterparts.

Donor: the late Mrs. F.E. Willsie of Victoria B.C., Canada. Who?