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Khepri | Hand-Carved Lapis Lazuli Scarab Necklace
Throughout history, the scarab has held a special place in the artistic and spiritual traditions of ancient Egypt. Associated with the rising sun, transformation, and renewal, its distinctive form became one of the civilization's most enduring symbols, appearing in jewelry, sculpture, and decorative arts.
Named for Khepri, the ancient Egyptian deity associated with the morning sun and the cycle of renewal, this necklace offers a contemporary interpretation of that remarkable symbol through the geometric language of Art Deco.
At its center rests a richly colored lapis lazuli gemstone, individually carved by hand to create a stylized representation of the scarab. Rather than reproducing its traditional appearance, the design explores simplified lines, symmetry, and architectural forms, drawing inspiration from the fascination with ancient Egyptian art that helped shape the decorative vocabulary of the early twentieth century.
The deep blue stone is framed in an original mixed-metal setting of sterling silver and brass, bringing together traditional metalsmithing with a distinctly modern aesthetic. On the reverse, the Monsieur Pamplemousse signature marks the piece as an original creation from the ateliê.
Suspended from a fine gunmetal rolo chain, the pendant is given space to become the focal point. A delicate extender, finished with a small lapis lazuli gemstone, introduces a thoughtful final detail while allowing the necklace to be adjusted for different necklines.
Khepri brings together ancient symbolism, Art Deco geometry, and contemporary craftsmanship. Its beauty lies not only in the richness of the lapis lazuli but in the process of transformation itself: taking a familiar historical form and discovering something new within it.
An ancient symbol, reimagined through the hands of a modern artist.
Details
Length: Approximately 16.5 inches with a 1.5-inch extender, adjustable to 18 inches
Gemstone: Natural lapis lazuli
Centerpiece: Hand-carved oval lapis lazuli scarab, approximately 13 mm wide × 18 mm long
Design inspiration: Ancient Egyptian scarab symbolism interpreted through Art Deco geometry
Pendant setting: Original handcrafted sterling silver and brass
Artist's mark: Monsieur Pamplemousse signature on the reverse of the pendant
Chain: Fine gunmetal-toned rolo chain
Extender: Finished with a lapis lazuli gemstone accent
Closure: Lobster clasp
Color palette: Deep Egyptian blue, gunmetal gray, silver, and warm brass
Techniques: Gemstone carving, metalsmithing, and jewelry assembly
Origin: Handcrafted in Chicago
Availability: One-of-a-kind creation
Care: Lapis lazuli is sensitive to harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning methods. Avoid prolonged exposure to water, perfumes, and lotions. Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing and store separately to protect the carved gemstone and mixed-metal setting.
Style Notes
Art Deco Elegance: Pair with a black silk blouse, tailored jacket, or clean geometric neckline to emphasize the pendant's architectural design.
Egyptian Blue: Wear against ivory, cream, or warm sand tones to bring out the remarkable depth of the lapis lazuli.
Modern Minimalism: Style with a charcoal knit or simple black dress, allowing the carved centerpiece to become a subtle statement.
An Artistic Layer: Combine with a longer sterling silver or oxidized metal chain for a thoughtful arrangement of textures, lengths, and contrasting metal finishes.
An original, handcrafted creation from Monsieur Pamplemousse Ateliê & Creative Studio, Chicago.
Throughout history, the scarab has held a special place in the artistic and spiritual traditions of ancient Egypt. Associated with the rising sun, transformation, and renewal, its distinctive form became one of the civilization's most enduring symbols, appearing in jewelry, sculpture, and decorative arts.
Named for Khepri, the ancient Egyptian deity associated with the morning sun and the cycle of renewal, this necklace offers a contemporary interpretation of that remarkable symbol through the geometric language of Art Deco.
At its center rests a richly colored lapis lazuli gemstone, individually carved by hand to create a stylized representation of the scarab. Rather than reproducing its traditional appearance, the design explores simplified lines, symmetry, and architectural forms, drawing inspiration from the fascination with ancient Egyptian art that helped shape the decorative vocabulary of the early twentieth century.
The deep blue stone is framed in an original mixed-metal setting of sterling silver and brass, bringing together traditional metalsmithing with a distinctly modern aesthetic. On the reverse, the Monsieur Pamplemousse signature marks the piece as an original creation from the ateliê.
Suspended from a fine gunmetal rolo chain, the pendant is given space to become the focal point. A delicate extender, finished with a small lapis lazuli gemstone, introduces a thoughtful final detail while allowing the necklace to be adjusted for different necklines.
Khepri brings together ancient symbolism, Art Deco geometry, and contemporary craftsmanship. Its beauty lies not only in the richness of the lapis lazuli but in the process of transformation itself: taking a familiar historical form and discovering something new within it.
An ancient symbol, reimagined through the hands of a modern artist.
Details
Length: Approximately 16.5 inches with a 1.5-inch extender, adjustable to 18 inches
Gemstone: Natural lapis lazuli
Centerpiece: Hand-carved oval lapis lazuli scarab, approximately 13 mm wide × 18 mm long
Design inspiration: Ancient Egyptian scarab symbolism interpreted through Art Deco geometry
Pendant setting: Original handcrafted sterling silver and brass
Artist's mark: Monsieur Pamplemousse signature on the reverse of the pendant
Chain: Fine gunmetal-toned rolo chain
Extender: Finished with a lapis lazuli gemstone accent
Closure: Lobster clasp
Color palette: Deep Egyptian blue, gunmetal gray, silver, and warm brass
Techniques: Gemstone carving, metalsmithing, and jewelry assembly
Origin: Handcrafted in Chicago
Availability: One-of-a-kind creation
Care: Lapis lazuli is sensitive to harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning methods. Avoid prolonged exposure to water, perfumes, and lotions. Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing and store separately to protect the carved gemstone and mixed-metal setting.
Style Notes
Art Deco Elegance: Pair with a black silk blouse, tailored jacket, or clean geometric neckline to emphasize the pendant's architectural design.
Egyptian Blue: Wear against ivory, cream, or warm sand tones to bring out the remarkable depth of the lapis lazuli.
Modern Minimalism: Style with a charcoal knit or simple black dress, allowing the carved centerpiece to become a subtle statement.
An Artistic Layer: Combine with a longer sterling silver or oxidized metal chain for a thoughtful arrangement of textures, lengths, and contrasting metal finishes.
An original, handcrafted creation from Monsieur Pamplemousse Ateliê & Creative Studio, Chicago.