During a family hike near Tel Qana in Hod Hasharon, Israel, 12-year-old Dafna Filshteiner stumbled upon an extraordinary artifact dating back approximately 3,500 years. Initially dismissed as an ordinary stone, young Dafna's keen eye noticed unique markings, prompting her to investigate further. Her persistence paid off, as online searches revealed the object's potential significance. Reaching out to the Israel Antiquities Authority confirmed their suspicions: Dafna had unearthed an ancient Egyptian amulet.

The amulet, shaped like a scarab beetle, holds deep symbolic meaning in ancient Egyptian culture, representing rebirth and new beginnings. This particular scarab features two scorpions, emblems of the protective goddess Serket, along with the "nefer" symbol, signifying "good" or "chosen," and a potential royal staff marking. Experts believe the amulet originated during Egypt's New Kingdom period. While its presence in Israel remains a mystery, theories suggest it could have belonged to a prominent figure traveling through the region or been intentionally buried.

Dafna's discovery underscores the unpredictable nature of archaeological finds. Sometimes, significant historical artifacts are unearthed not by seasoned professionals, but by curious individuals with a sharp eye for detail. For her remarkable contribution to history, Dafna received a certificate of good citizenship. The amulet is now on display at the Jay and Jeanie Schottenstein National Campus for the Archaeology of Israel in Jerusalem, allowing the public to share in this incredible find. Dafna's story echoes other recent discoveries made by young people, including a 9-year-old boy in England who found a Paleolithic hand axe on the beach and a 12-year-old who unearthed a Roman gold bracelet while walking his dog. These instances highlight the valuable role everyday citizens can play in uncovering the past.