The Amarna Period of Egyptian history began with the reign of Akhenaten, the father of Tutankhamun in 1353 BC, and lasted up until 1292 BC. Palmettes were a common decorative motif in Ancient Egypt and have been linked with life and death, divinity and the sun. Amulets in varying shapes and materials were extremely popular in Ancient Egypt as they were believed to provide beneficial effects depending on their material or imagery. Many amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. The precise significance of the palmette is unknown, though plant imagery and amulets were typically symbolic of new life.
To learn more about amulets in Ancient Egypt, please see our relevant post: Amulets in Ancient Egypt.