Jewish jewelry has experienced a renaissance over the last century because of the freedom of Jews to interact with society and also because of the explosion in Jewish art also known as Judaica. Thus, there are numerous symbols used in Jewish jewelry, such as the Magen David, Hamsa and Menorah.
One of the most popular Jewish symbols is the Star of David also known as the Magen David in Hebrew. Stars of David are mostly found on pendants and can be studded with diamond as well as molded in traditional and modern interpretations of this ancient symbol. Star of David pendants are also frequently made of precious metals such as 925 sterling silver as well as 14 and 18 karat gold. In addition, Stars of David can be engraved on bracelets as well as pendants in other shapes, such as Hamsas.
Hamsas are an extremely popular form used in Jewish jewelry and Judaica in general. The word Hamsa is Arabic for the number five and is shaped like an open hand and frequently has a large eye in the center. The Hamsa is one of the oldest good luck charms in the world and is associated with Moses’ sister Miriam in Judaism. Hamsa shaped Jewish jewelry pieces are generally pendants attached to bracelets and necklaces and are usually made from metals such as sterling silver and gold, although stained glass pieces edged with silver or gold are also popular as well.
In addition to this, Jewish jewelry makes use of traditional symbols such as the Menorah and the Hoshen – the High Priest’s breastplate that features four rows of three stones that represent the twelve tribes of Israel. The Hoshen frequently appears engraved on pieces such as sterling silver Hamsas and the stones are frequently made of crystals in shades of red, blue, green, orange and yellow. However, the Hoshen may also appear on a pendant as 12 small stones set on a square gold plate.
The Menorah is also a popular symbol, especially since it is described in the Talmud as being a symbol of wisdom. The Menorah can be engraved into pendants or it can appear as the centerpieces of a gold necklace, like most Jewish symbols. If you are looking for a modern piece of Jewish jewelry that has symbolic meaning and looks beautiful, consider purchasing some of these items that come in sterling silver and high quality 14 and 18 karat gold.
