A master thesis entitled (jewelry and beautification in ancient Egypt during the era of the modern state (1580-1085 BC) was discussed in the Department of History at the College of Arts at the University of Basrah.
The thesis presented by student Nadia Abdel-Saheb Al-Badr included four chapters. The first chapter discussed funerary and mundane ornaments, the second chapter included adornments and cosmetics in ancient Egypt, the third chapter discussed the materials used in the manufacture of jewelry and cosmetics in ancient Egypt, and the fourth chapter dealt with clothing in ancient Egypt during the era of the New Kingdom.
The study concluded:
1- Egyptian jewelry was distinguished from its counterparts from other civilizations by two important characteristics, the first: continuity over thousands of years and the second: reconciling beliefs through the ages, as the symbols of the fading ages fused with the symbols expressing the emerging beliefs in one crucible that brought them together.
3- The ancient Egyptians knew the manufacture of jewelry and adornments since the dawn of history. The ancients believed that wearing jewelry protected them from the vagaries of nature, diseases and evil spirits, and pleased the gods. However, jewelry did not stop at being a mere expression of fear, but was at the same time a sign of distinction and a tool to attract attention and impress others. It was used by the elite and the common people alike, and the jewelry was worn for religious or magical purposes, as in the case of amulets that give its bearer strength and good fortune.
