What jewelry did Bastet wear?

As the ancient Egyptian goddess of protection, pleasure, music, dance, beauty, fertility, and childbirth, Bastet was adorned with various types of jewelry, holding deep symbolic significance in her portrayal and worship. Here are some of the jewelry items associated with Bastet:

1. Gold Menat Necklace: The menat necklace was a common accessory for goddesses in ancient Egypt. Bastet was often depicted wearing a gold menat with a counterpoise in the shape of a Sekhmet head, symbolizing her fierce protective aspects. The menat was connected with music, dance, and joy.

2. Gold Uraeuses and Vulture Headdress: Bastet is frequently shown wearing a gold headdress adorned with uraei (stylized cobras) and vulture feathers. The uraei represent the goddess's protective powers, while the vulture feathers symbolize motherhood and nurturing.

3. Gold Scarab Necklace: The scarab beetle held great importance in ancient Egypt, symbolizing transformation and resurrection. Bastet is sometimes depicted wearing a gold scarab necklace as a symbol of her association with these concepts.

4. Gold Earrings and Bracelets: Bastet is often portrayed wearing gold earrings and bracelets, further enhancing her divine beauty and elegance. These accessories added to the goddess's regal and opulent appearance.

5. Sistrum: Bastet was closely linked to music and joyous celebrations. She is frequently shown holding a sistrum, a musical instrument with metal discs or rings that jingle when shaken. The sistrum produced musical notes and was believed to appease the gods.

6. Gold Anklets: Deities in ancient Egypt were often depicted wearing anklets as symbols of their divine status. Bastet is sometimes shown adorned with gold anklets that jingled as she danced.

7. Amulet of Bastet: The amulet of Bastet, known as the "aegis," was a protective charm commonly worn by worshippers. It typically depicted the goddess in seated form, with her head facing forward, and was made from various materials like gold, silver, faience, or semi-precious stones.

These pieces of jewelry not only adorned the goddess Bastet but also served as physical representations of her powers, attributes, and the values she embodied for the ancient Egyptians.