Jewelry collars in ancient Egypt were prized possessions in the days of Pharaoh, many dating back to the XI Dynasty. The most universal style was the Broad Collar. Such collars are found painted on statues and reliefs, but have rarely been recovered intact.

At Fire Gems Studio, designer Debbie McLelland has a deep affinity with Egyptian history, beliefs, and its alluring, breathtaking jewelry. Notice the intricate detail in this modern day version of the "Collar of Lapis," found in "The Old Kingdom," dating before 2250 BC. Eleven glass overlays were applied to this arched glass disc before kiln-firing to accomplish the completed fusion of this magnificent necklace. Using diamond bits, 12 individual openings were delicately drilled into the finished piece to provide a location for the dangling Egyptian crystal beads. Special formulas have been created here at the studio producing these beads into high polished, iridescent glass crystal. As a final touch, this 20" collar was strung with Gold, and 4, 6, and 12mm Hematite.

Very few of these majestic collars have survived, those that have been found were on the bodies of Pharaohs. Tutankhamen, for instance, was covered with multiple sets of jewelry collars. We dedicate this piece to the Queen of all Queens, Cleopatra.

Private Collection