Egyptian Revival Accessories

When King Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered in the 1920s, it was not only an important archeological find, it influenced everything from architecture to fashion. Woman all over the world began wearing jewelry, headdresses, and belts with Egyptian motifs. This period became known as the Egyptian revival. Vintage fashion fans should note that there were two important Egyptian revival periods in fashion. The first took place in the 1920s and the second took place in the mid 1970s.

1920s Egyptian revival. Egyptian revival jewelry and accessories became very popular with women in the 1920s. Women wore snake bracelets on their upper arms or beaded headdresses like Cleopatra. Egyptian revival jewelry typically featured traditional Egyptian symbols such as scarabs, ankhs, sphinx, pyramids, and pharaohs. Egyptian revival jewelry often was made with precious metals such as sterling silver or gold. Accessories were also made with Czech glass, Bakelite, and gemstones like turquoise or lapis. Egyptian revival accessories from the 1920’s are significantly more expensive than their 1970’s counterparts since they were made with better materials.

1970s Egyptian revival. When the treasures of King Tut’s tomb went on tour in the U.S. in the mid-1970s, fashion was again influenced by the styles of ancient Egypt. At that time, costume jewelry companies such as the Art Company, Sarah Coventry, and Miriam Haskell began mass producing jewelry and belts with Egyptian motifs. However, most of these accessories were made with more inferior products such as base metals or plastic. Accessories are most likely gold plated rather than made with 12-Karat gold. Also, some unique and stylish 1970s leather handbags and wallets had Egyptian designs carved into them.

Now that you are familiar with two of the Egyptian revival periods in fashion, here are some tips to keep in mind before purchasing an Egyptian revival accessory.

Consider the condition of the accessory. People purchasing vintage Egyptian revival accessories should take into consideration the condition of the piece they are purchasing. For example, a 1970s Miriam Haskell necklace in pristine condition might hold more value than unmarked 1920s’s necklace that needs to be repaired or is badly damaged. If you are buying leather goods with an Egyptian motif, remember that cracked or flaking leather cannot be restored. Moreover, broken clasps and snaps on bags may be impossible to replace.

Buy what you love. If you are at a flea market or antique shop and find an Egyptian revival piece you love, don’t hesitate to buy it. You may not find the same piece at another store in the same condition. If you are considering buying something online, be sure to ask the seller about the condition of the piece before purchasing.

Negotiate the price with the seller. More people are tightening their belts and not spending as much on clothing and accessories. As a result, some sellers may be more willing to bargain with you. If the piece you want to buy is a bit out of your price range, you may be able to get the seller to lower the price by politely asking, “Is this your best price?”

Purchase new rather than used. Sometimes, it is better and more affordable to buy a reproduction of an Egyptian revival piece. Costume jewelry companies such as the 1928 Jewelry Company and Sweet Romance Jewelry currently produce jewelry with Egyptian themes. Also, be sure to check out museum stores also since they commonly carry new Egyptian-inspired jewelry pieces made of gold.

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