The connection of the Jewish faith and culture with the art of jewelry making and design dates back to biblical times. The Bible illustrates many examples of jewelry used as both adornments and as a symbolic display of faith or a love for God. Many of the Jewish faith wear Jewish jewelry or symbols or keep them as talismans. Most notably, the Star of David is a common recurring theme in Ancient Jewish jewelry. However, as the wide selection of pendants, amulets, and talismans show, there are many Hebrew words, letters, and symbols that make excellent jewelry pieces. These gold or silver pieces denote Jewish affiliation, provide reminders of valuable teachings, or to pay tribute to mitzvah such as mezuzah. The word Chai references the number 18, which is a favorable number in the Jewish faith and is commonly featured in jewelry, as seen in the many examples in the ancient Jewish jewelry category.
In Jewish culture, jewelry have played an important role since biblical times. We could see many references in the bible to the custom of wearing jewelry both as a decoration and as a symbol. In recent times, ancient Jewish jewelry are wildly spread and are worn to show one’s affiliation with the religion and as talismans and amulets. Most Popular symbols used in Hebrew Jewelry: The Star of David (“Magen David” in Hebrew), Hamsa (also known as the “Hamesh hand”), Hebrew word “Chai” (consisting of the two Hebrew letters Chet and Yod)
Jewish Mezuzah Jewelry, Silver & Gold Mezuzah Pendants & Charms
Mezuzah is the Hebrew word for doorpost. Mezuzah jewelry serves as a reminder of the Jewish mitzvah, or commandment, which bade those of Jewish faith to write on their doorposts and gates the words God commanded in Deuteronomy 6:9. Many traditional Jewish households have a mezuzah on their doorpost. The case holds within a scroll of parchment on which the Shema passage is written, as well as another passage, Deuteronomy 11:13-21. On the outside of the mezuzah, the letter Shin appears. The mezuzah is commonly featured in ancient Jewish jewelry as another reminder of God’s mitzvot.
Browse a selection of mezuzah jewelry and choose from 14k gold or sterling silver. Jewish.shop offers designs from simple, elegant mezuzah, to fancy filigree and two-toned designs. Each charm or pendant features the traditional Shin, or alternatively symbols such as the Star of David, Hamesh Hand, Chai, and other popular Jewish symbols.
Menorah Pendant Jewelry, Silver & Gold Menorah Pendants
The menorah is a universally recognized symbol of Judaism. It is also one of the oldest ancient Jewish jewelry. Menorahs are seen in the windows of Jewish households the world over during Chanukah. However, the number of branches on a Chanukah menorah differ from those used in the Temple or those used in synagogues.
Nonetheless, the menorah has become the symbolic of the nation of Israel, signifying the mission outlined in Isaiah 42:6 to be “a light unto the nations.” Menorah pendent selections are each crafted of 14k gold and depict the six branch menorah used in synagogues, as well as the seven-branch menorah used in the Temple. Each pendant serves as a reminder of the Jewish faith, beliefs, and covenants with God. Some of the pendants combine the menorah with other Judaic symbols such as the Star of David for added attractiveness and symbols of Judaism.
Star of David Jewelry, Gold Star Of David Pendants
In terms of Ancient Jewish Jewelry and religious symbols, the Star of David is to Jews what the cross or crucifix is to Christians. The Magen David, Shield of David, or Star of David, as it is most commonly known, is well-known to symbolize the Jewish faith. Theological theories debate the symbolic nature of the Magen David, pointing out a variety of meanings, including representations of the inseparability of the Jewish people, the three types of Jews, and the 12 Tribes. Regardless of its place in Jewish history or meaning, today the Star of David is a popular accessory to identify those of Jewish faith and celebrate Jewish heritage. Star of David charms, pendants, medals, and other pieces each offer a unique approach to decorative and symbolic Jewish jewelry.
Gold Hamsa Jewelry, Jewish Hamsa Pendants, Hamesh Hands
The Hamsa Hand, Hand of Fatima, or Hamesh Hand is a commonly recurring theme in Judaic and Muslim cultures. Hamsa jewelry is quite popular in such cultures. It is believed by some to be a talisman or amulet which helps ward off the Evil Eye, a common superstition in many cultures. The Evil Eye is believed to cause malicious spiritual energy derived from jealous or vengeful foes against those they believe have wronged them or who have more than their foes believe to be fair. No matter how much value you place in such beliefs, these jewelry pieces reflect some of the most dazzling artistry, with intricate filigree patterns and embellishments.
Jewish Chai Jewelry, Gold Chai Pendants
Chai is the Hebrew word for living. It is formed by attaching the Hebrew letters Yod and Cheit. As ornamental symbols go, Chai is a popular choice in ancient Jewish jewelry. The concept of Chai, as it relates to Jewish culture, is deeply rooted and has many meanings. Some Jews see it as referencing the Living God, while others see it as a representation of charity. Still, others believe it represents how important life is to the Jewish people. In terms of charity, Chai has a numeric value of 18. In Jewish culture, charitable gifts are given in multiples of 18, so Chai symbolizes charity for many Jews.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at Blufashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2018. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
