Splurge and Steal: Free People vs eBay

Sheila B. Horus pendant, $218 at Free People

Falling in love is not something I do often.. especially with accessories.

Actually, scratch that--that's a blatant lie. Especially when I spotted this falcon necklace, modeled exactly after the pendant of the Egyptian god Horus that was found in King Tut's tomb. We've gone over the fact that I'm a dork, right? Good. Anyway, I nearly cried when I found out it was more than $200--also known as 1/4 my rent.

However, with my super sleuthing skills, I've found an almost-identical replica.. for less than $30.

Horus necklace, $20 (plus shipping) on eBay (there are 6 more available!)

These necklaces are even made of the same material--brass and enamel. And both are handmade (cheaper labor in Cairo?). The beaded chain is different, but surely not worth the extra $190. There's even a tiny shot of it in a Free People promo video (at 1:04.. listen, I get obsessed with things) that makes me feel like any differences here lie in better photography at FP. Maybe someone can enlighten me here?

Regardless, I'm so glad I've found this less expensive version and am eagerly awaiting its arrival. Have you ever had a similar experience where you've gotten something possibly pricey on the way, way cheap?