Revered in the ancient world and adored in the modern world, cats have held a special place in our hearts and lives for thousands of years. Often associated with goddesses and women, felines are imbued with magical properties of protection and spiritual significance making cats a muse for jewelry artisans across all cultures and all eras. Interestingly, throughout the world, much of the lore around felines centers on independence, guardianship and women.
The Goddess Bastet
In ancient Egypt cats were associated with the Goddess Bastet, a woman depicted with the head of a lioness. She is sometimes seen as a cat sitting up and looking straight ahead. She may even be wearing an earring. Bastet was the Goddess of home and domestic affairs, as well as fertility, childbirth and motherhood. She was a protector who made sure the home was safe and disease free. Cat jewelry was connected to religious rites and the ancient Egyptians often wore cat amulets as protection. The deceased were frequently buried with cat jewelry, as cats were supposed to guide them through the afterlife.
Roman Women Loved Cat Jewelry
The ancient Romans also associated cats with domestic harmony, along with freedom and independence. Allegedly Roman women wore cat themed brooches or rings as symbols of freedom, independence and grace. In Norse culture, cats are connected to the Goddess Freya, who rode in a chariot pulled by two large cats, once again representing strength, independence and the power of women. Additionally, cats were known to protect the grain stores in the Egyptian, Roman and Norse cultures keeping mice and other pests from destroying the stored food supply.
During the middle ages, cats were seen from two opposing points of view. Some cats were associated with witchcraft and evil energies. On the other hand, cats were also considered protectors of the home. By the Victorian era, a time when symbolism and jewelry were used to communicate, cats became a badge of women’s independence; an emblem of femininity, cats were thought to bring good luck and defense against evil spirits.
Asian Cat Jewelry
Cats also play a crucial role in Asian cultures. Cats are thought to bring happiness, prosperity and protection. One of the most common cats in Asia, Maneki-neko, originated in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1867). Also known as a “beckoning cat” Maneki-neko have a raised paw. It is also found in China, where cats symbolize long life and good fortune, while at the same time warding off evil spirits. The Maneki-neko cat is sometimes found as fine jewelry.
Modern Cat Jewelry
Today, many jewelry houses from Cartier to David Webb and Van Cleef & Arpels have created cats. From friendly, mischievous domestic cats to fierce wild cats, these collectible felines are rendered in precious metals and gemstones, each expressing its own unique personality. Van Cleef & Arpels is known for its friendly felines, while David Webb is known for his jungle beasts. With so many cats to choose from, you’ll find one that suits your style, whether it’s a playful kitten for casual days, a powerful jungle cat to wear to work, or a sensual feline for date night, these are jewels that will express who you are, while offering protection from all the negative vibes that may try to cross your path.
Top of Page: Diamond, emerald, 18-karat gold and enamel tiger bracelet signed David Webb, courtesy J S Fearnley (@jsfearnley).
Authored by Amber Michelle