String of beads

Predynastic, Late Naqada l–Naqada II

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 101

Even in the earliest graves, everyone was buried wearing their favorite ornaments. Jewelry was simple: necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. Amulets, semi-diadems (forehead ornaments), and belts occasionally occur. Jewelry often provided protection through its shape, material, and color; some pieces conferred status through type or material.

This necklace was found with the burial of a child, along with a number of other luxury and prestige items (see 09.182.1-.8). Clearly the child was born into a wealthy and powerful family, and acquired his or her status through birth.

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