Bee on Flower Pin with Black Enamel

Grand Bazaar

Grey / Black

• Bronze with 0.50 micron, 18K gold plating
• Size : 2x4 cm

Keep your products away from cosmetics, perfumes, and chemical substances. Do not store under direct sunlight, especially in damp and humid environments such as a bathroom. Remove your jewelry while swimming, taking a shower, and during physical activitie

The Bee of Ephesus

The bee, also known as the sacred animal of Artemis of Ephesus, who was called the Queen of the Bees, is one of the most important symbols of the city of Ephesus. It was widely used in coins, architecture, and even on the statue of Artemis of Ephesus. Due to the bee being the goddess’s sacred animal, the temple priestesses were also called “Melissae,” which means “honeybee.” Some experts argue that the connection between the goddess and the bee comes from a Hittite myth that highlights the importance of the bee as a transformative force of nature, symbolizing the spring-autumn cycle. (In the myth, when the Hittite god of agriculture and fertility, Telepinu, falls asleep in a cave, nature also slumbers, leading to famine in the land. A small bee sent by the goddess finds and stings Telepinu, awakening both him and nature.

Another link between the goddess and the bee is hidden in Artemis's statue, often misinterpreted as depicting multiple breasts (Polymastros), which were actually symbols of fertility. Experts continue to debate three possibilities about these lumps. The first suggests that they represent bull testicles, symbolizing male power and offered as sacrifices, in reference to the Cybele myth. The second proposes that they symbolize seeds or fruits, referencing the cyclical nature of life. The third possibility is that they depict a symbolic image of a bee swarm, essential for nature.

Thus, the bee, symbolizing the Mother Goddess and Ephesus, represents transformation, diligence, and fertility, becoming a matter of great significance

The Flower Motif of Ephesus

A unique floral decoration, consisting of four petals, frequently appears on the statue of Artemis of Ephesus, who embodies the role of Earth Mother, as well as in the architectural details of Ephesus. On the statue of Artemis, this motif is used to depict the birth of water nymphs and appears on the hem of her skirt as a garland and on one of her oldest accessories, a thick belt. These flowers, known as the immortelle (Helichrysum), are believed to be associated with the goddess. Additionally, they symbolize both the beauty of nature's revival and the goddess's dominion over the plant world.

Thus, these beautiful flowers have become a central theme of this collection, representing natural beauty, awakening, and vitality.