Hazorfim Sterling Silver Pomegranate with Vermeil Finish
Hollowware - Decorative Judaica Object · Hazorfim, the renowned Israeli silversmithing company founded in 1952. They are the world's largest producer of handmade silver Judaica, established by Yosef Merdinger in Tel Aviv and known for merging traditional craftsmanship with modern design.
Pattern: Naturalistic Pomegranate (Rimon) Collection; a perennial bestseller in their contemporary and traditional lines.
Type
Hollowware - Decorative Judaica Object
Maker
Hazorfim, the renowned Israeli silversmithing company founded in 1952. They are the world's largest producer of handmade silver Judaica, established by Yosef Merdinger in Tel Aviv and known for merging traditional craftsmanship with modern design.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) core with a heavy Vermeil (rose gold or gold over silver) finish. The reflective surface indicates a high-purity silver base underneath the electroplated gold layer.
Dimensions
Approximately 3 inches (7-8 cm) in height and width. Estimated weight 80-120 grams depending on if the piece is hollow or weighted. This size fits into the 'Small' or 'Individual' decorative category.
Description
This stunning sterling silver pomegranate captures the essence of the biblical 'Seven Species'. Its smooth, undulating surface is finished in a warm rose-gold vermeil that catches the light from every angle. The piece represents fertility, abundance, and righteousness, making it a centerpiece of Jewish ceremonial art. Its minimalist yet bold design allows it to function as both a ritual object and a modern sculpture.
Key Features
Distinctive crown calyx, high-gloss vermeil finish, and the iconic circular Hazorfim mark stamped directly into the side of the body.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) core with a heavy Vermeil (rose gold or gold over silver) finish. The reflective surface indicates a high-purity silver base underneath the electroplated gold layer.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with rose gold Vermeil. The piece features a naturalistic, organic form with a 'hammered' or faceted surface to mimic the skin of a fruit. The crown (calyx) is rendered with stylized serrated edges.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A prominent circular stamp is visible on the lower body containing the 'Hazorfim' logo and '925' or 'Sterling' indicators. This is typical of modern Israeli silver where the maker's mark is often used as a decorative focal point or authentication seal.
Construction Details
Machine-formed or die-struck followed by hand-finishing and high polishing. The body is likely thin-walled hollowware created via spinning or pressing, with the calyx crown soldered to the top.
Functional Features
Primarily decorative, though it often serves as a symbolic 'Rimon' for Rosh Hashanah table settings or as a spice box (besamim) if a perforated or opening version, though this appears to be a solid/sealed figurine.
Handle & Grip Details
No handle; features a pointed crown (calyx) that can serve as a grip for removing a lid if the piece is a container.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial silversmithing. The mirror finish is achieved through intensive buffing, and the hallmark strike is clean and centered, indicating a quality-controlled production environment.
Authentication Indicators
The recessed circular hallmark is the primary authenticator, consistent with Hazorfim's branding. The weight-to-size ratio and the quality of the solder joint at the crown are professional and high-standard.
Origin & Manufacturing
Kfar Daniel, Israel. Manufactured in the Hazorfim workshop, which employs traditional silversmithing techniques alongside modern production methods to ensure consistency.
Era & Period
Contemporary Judaica (late 20th to 21st century). It reflects the modern preference for organic, minimalist shapes over the ornate filigree of mid-century pieces.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present day. The style and hallmark type suggest a piece from the last three decades of production.
Cultural Significance
The pomegranate is a central symbol in Mediterranean and Jewish culture, representing wisdom and prosperity. For collectors, it represents the evolution of Israeli art from Eastern European traditionalism to a modern, indigenous aesthetic.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. There are visible surface fingerprints and light hairline scratches consistent with handling. The vermeil appears intact without 'bleeding' (where silver shows through), and there is no evidence of crushing or dents.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD. Value depends on the current spot price of silver and whether it is an 'extra-large' or 'medium' variant. The vermeil finish adds a premium over standard silver versions.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with a soft, non-abrasive silver cloth. Avoid chemical dips as they will strip the gold vermeil plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant pouch when not on display. Handle with cotton gloves to prevent oil-induced tarnishing.
Similar Pieces
Pieces by Hadad Brothers or Bier Judaica. While similar in form, Hazorfim pieces are generally heavier and have a more distinct 'faceting' in the metalwork compared to competitors.
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to contain 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah. This has made the fruit one of the most popular motifs in Israeli silver design.