
A window into ancient times
The gemstones and figurines shed some light on the day-to-day lives and practices of the ancient resident of Pompeii. The gems found were had ritual purposes. There were unique seashells to symbolize fertility and small, carved phalluses that men used to wear to protect themselves from evil spirits. There were also gems with the engraved images of the Greek satyr god, Dionysus. Surprisingly, there is also an impressive representation of Egyptian gods in the form of gems and figurines namely Horus — who had a Pompeiian parallel called Harpocates and symbolized hope. Other Egyptian gems found there are linked to health, fertility, and children, which teaches us a lot about the Pompeiians’ priorities in life.

A deep dive into Pompeii
According to Drew Wilburn, researcher of ancient magic practices, this discovery is remarkable. Mainly because these items are the only way for us to learn about life in ancient Pompeii. Without them, we could never have known that the residents of Pompeii believed in magic and the access of higher powers.