These green iridescent beetles were meant to evoke the "exotic" vibe of ancient Egypt to the Victorian consumer, even though the dazzling bugs come from South America and would have never been found living in Egypt. They were a weird approach to the whole Egyptomania jewelry thing, incorporating the Victorian craze for naturalism and taxidermy. At various points 19th century women used live (!) beetles and fireflies in their jewelry and hair ornaments. When we find out how that worked, we'll let you know. Till then, these green beetle carapaces will tide us all over.