Ellipsoid carnelian stamp decorated with a scorpion, Sassanian period (224 – 677 AD), 2.4 x 1.9 x 1.3 cm.

Stone, terracotta, shell, bone. Engraved or carved, pierced through its centre or at the top. With geometric or figurative motifs (humans, animals, deities, buildings) in mythological, religious and/or daily life scenes.

Stamp seals may be ellipsoidal or animal-, gable- or pyramid-shaped. Rings have a flat top with motifs in relief. Size: pictures 1.5-3 cm, seals 2-4 cm.