Patriotic Italian Charms


Traditional Jewish Jewelry
Posted in Italian Charms on 01.14.08 11:34

Owning and wearing Jewish jewelry is a wonderful way to show your faith.  The most popular pieces will be the traditional Jewish symbols that bring comfort, peace, hope and faith to those who wear them. Learn which symbols are most revered and which are most appropriate to show your Jewish faith.  We will explain what each shape symbolizes and the history of these symbols, as well.  In addition, it is wise to know which pendants or pieces match the message that you wish to say or aid in a reminder of the Jewish history and faith that has such strong traditions.

There are certain pieces of Jewish jewelry that are the most poplar and most appropriate for those who share the Jewish faith.  These symbols have very strong tradition and the history behind these pieces can be a great reminder of the faith.

One of the most popular pieces is the Hamsa pendant.  This type of pendant is shaped to show the Hand of Miriam.  Its meaning is the number five.  This is worn to keep away negative forces, to keep the evil eye away and in its most literal meaning, it is the protecting hand of God.  Thus, the pendant will literally be shaped as a hand, a protecting hand.   The most widely spread accepted shape is that of a hand with three fingers out and two down. Not only is this piece worn my many on necklaces and bracelets, it is also found as larger pieces that are put on doors, walls and other places.

The Jewish star is also a very popular piece.  It is very appropriate to wear this symbol to show your Jewish faith.  This is also called the Star of David.   This will be shaped as a six pointed star and has quite literal meaning.  It symbolizes God’s power of the universe and that He protects all.  The Star of David and the Hand of Miriam is found in gold, silver and other metals.  It is also common for the pieces to be adorned with various gemstones, such as sapphire, rubies and others.

Another very popular piece of Jewish jewelry is Bendel bracelets.  This shows a very long standing tradition of those of Jewish faith to wear a red string on one’s wrist.  This symbolized the Tomb of Rachel.  As with the Hand of Miriam, this is thought to protect one from negative thoughts or glances and it is also thought to give the wearer good luck and blessings.

One of the most popular types of Red String bracelets are those that were made out of string that was put around the Tomb of Rachael and then crafted while prayers were recited.    The string can be woven into silver or gold bracelets; thus making for valuable and personally important jewelry.

These bracelets symbolize the importance of the Tomb of Rachael.  Since passing away, the Tomb has been visited by countless people to ask for blessings.  The bible refers to this place in Genesis 35:20-21, “Over her grave Jacob put up a pillar, it is the pillar at Rachel’s grave to this day”.  This leads many to believe that God knew that people would flock to this area. 

No matter which piece of jewelry you decide to have to show your faith, it is best to go to a reputable jewelry shop, whether in person or online, to make sure that you receive quality items.  A reputable shop will have a customer service number in place, as well as a secure site for when you make your purchase.