In ancient Egypt, scarabs were a symbol of rebirth, regeneration, and transformation. Some people were buried with scarab amulets placed over their hearts to protect them in the afterlife. The Egyptians also associated the scarab's habit of rolling dung balls with the apparent rebirth of the sun each morning. Even across so much time, the scarab has survived as a powerful symbol of protection. 

Like many ancient symbols and legends, the scarab has found its way into Dungeons and Dragons. Recently, we mentioned the Golembane Scarab, which serves a useful purpose in warding off golems. There is another, more expensive, and far less specialized magic item that utilizes the symbolic power of the scarab: the Scarab of Protection.

As with many wondrous items, the Scarab of Protection has more than one function. Primarily, it protects the wearer from magical attacks, as it grants a moderate level of spell resistance. Where it really shines, though, is in its ability to prevent its owner from certain vicious attacks, notably those associated with negative energy and death. The scarab is a representation of rebirth, though, and not immortality. Appropriately, the Scarab of Protection will crumble into dust after shielding the wearer from several of the specified special attacks.

Perhaps the greatest drawback to the Scarab is that it seeks to occupy the necklace magic item slot, for which there are many potent choices. It has to compete with such mainstays as the Amulet of Protection and the Periapt of Wisdom. While the Scarab's spell resistance might not make it worth the neck slot at higher levels, it is still worth keeping on hand to don during fights with undead and other creatures likely to use necromancy. Just be sure to keep track of how much more your Scarab can protect you, and replace as necessary.

-The Wizard
"...but which item will work best for me now? Ahem! Could you fight the hordes of darkness a little quieter, please, I'm trying to think!"