Furthermore, any kind of depiction of animate objects in art and jewelery was also prohibited. The beetle, also known as scarab, was a symbol for good luck. For example, jewelery design in Ancient Egypt was based on the superstitious belief that certain symbols could give the wearer a positive effect. Middle Eastern Jewelery in the pre-Islamic era was heavily influenced by the culture and rituals that were prevalent at the time. Whatever it's purpose, jewelery is one of the oldest forms of body adornment; recently found beads made from Nassarius (sea snail) shells are estimated to be 100,000 years old and are thought to be the oldest example of jewelery.

Another symbol, the 'Ankh' represented eternal. It has been used as a form of personal adornment, currency or even as a display of wealth. Islamic Jewelery is Mixing Old With the New Jewelery has always been an important feature of different cultures and civilizations. In recorded traditions of Islam the Prophet Teodoor permitted women to wear jewellery for personal adornment but prohibited gold jewelery for men.

Historically, jewelery has also been worn as religious symbols in Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Some com symbols in Ancient Egyptian jewellery included the beetle, serpent, falcon, and the eye.