Jewish Jewelry items are frequently given on occasions such as Bat Mitzvahs, Bar Mitzvahs and on holidays such as Hanukkah. However, there are several different types of Jewish jewelry that can make choosing a piece as difficult as picking out a Judaica item such as a Menorah. Here is a short overview of the different types of Jewish jewelry pieces that can be for sale on the market.
Stars of David are by far the most popular Jewish jewelry pieces. The Star of David is an ancient symbol that dates back to King David and is believe to be a good luck charm and symbol of protection from evil. Star of David jewelry pieces are typically the pendant section of a necklace and are made from a wide variety of metals, from nickel to 925 sterling silver and even gold. Star of David pendants also frequently sport diamonds in the center or along the border. However, Stars of David may also be engraved and appear on pieces such as bracelets and sometimes appear on stud earrings as well.
Hamsas are popular symbols amongst Jews that are supported to be a harbinger of blessing and banisher of the evil eye. The Hamsa appears in several different pieces of jewelry, including pedants, bracelets and rings. Hamsa jewelry is usually made from precious metals such as gold and silver, but may also appear on other metals as well. They may also be diamond studded or filled with stained glass. Hamsa Jewelry pieces also frequently have Hebrew text engraved in them, typically a name or the word “Chai”, which is Hebrew for “Life”.
Kabbalah Jewelry is a relatively new phenomenon in Jewish jewelry that takes numerous forms and is not limited to a single shape. These pieces of jewelry are typically made from metals such as silver or nickel and are engraved with Hebrew text that comes from holy Kabbalistic works. Kabbalah jewelry frequently takes the form of pendants, although they may also appear as rings or bracelets.
One other type of Jewelry that is extremely popular is IDF jewelry. IDF jewelry pieces are pendants which are engraved with names or other text. These pendants are made from a precious metal and may be set with diamonds as well. IDF Jewelry may also take the form of a Star of David that has the letters “IDF” in Hebrew or of a bullet engraved with a Star of David.
