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StarsOfDavid

Stars of David

The Star of David, actually Magen David or Shield of David, is probably the most well-known Jewish symbol. In the past Jews were forced to wear one: now we wear them voluntarily as a symbol of Jewish pride. Because of its strong shape it has now developed from a traditional 'identity badge' to a modern piece of jewelry.
For decades after WWII wearing a Magen David remained a statement of religious Jewish identity much like wearing some form of cross was for christians.

As a girl you were usually given one of those hangers, a gold or silver bangle on a chain, by your mother or another female family member - possibly for your Bat Mitzva, if you celebrated that. As a woman you might be given one by your husband. But if your boyfriend or lover presented you with one, you would at the very least be surprised.

But lately this homely image of the Magen David has undergone a radical change: a Star of David has become much more than a modest, religious hanger. Modern designers have discovered its beautiful shape and are putting it to amazing uses. For young Jews, more especially trendsetters in Israel, the star had become a symbol of Jewish pride. As a jewel it has to live up to high standards: the stars of the moment are cool, elegant, romantic or even 'awesome'.
To get a good view of our examples, click on the small images below.

These stars are made of Yemenite silverwork or the new dichroic 'space glass' in which precious metals have been fused to amazing colours. Blue, strongly associated with the Magen David because of the Israeli flag, remains popular - but look at all the different shades. They are now beginning to appear in other colours as well: we have some stunning examples of pink.

The most radical change is: the Star of David is no longer invariably a simple hanger. From simple ear studs to luxurious necklaces, anything goes. The Jewish Webshop found you some beautiful examples: have a look at Irit Dekels beautifull Yemenite silver filigree and Avihu Zur's designs in ancient Roman Glass from Israel.

With stars such as these, maybe the time has come you should be surprised if your boyfriend or lover doesn't give you one...