Israeli Sterling Silver Pomegranate Keyring, Judaica Style
Jewelry (Keyring/Fob) · Unknown Israeli artisan workshop; potentially Raz, Hadad, or Bier style. Marks are worn and difficult to identify but consistent with 20th-century Israeli Judaica boutiques.
Pattern: Traditional Judaica Pomegranate motif; part of an organic, textured botanical series common in Mediterranean silver designs.
Type
Jewelry (Keyring/Fob)
Maker
Unknown Israeli artisan workshop; potentially Raz, Hadad, or Bier style. Marks are worn and difficult to identify but consistent with 20th-century Israeli Judaica boutiques.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) for the pomegranate fob; the split-ring is likely stainless steel for durability. Total silver weight estimated at 15-20 grams.
Dimensions
Estimated 3.5 cm in height for the pomegranate (excluding ring); total weight approximately 25 grams including steel hardware.
Description
A charming and substantial sterling silver keyring featuring a realistically modeled pomegranate. The fruit is depicted in a state of ripeness, with a vertical fissure revealing the tightly packed seeds within. It captures the fruit's characteristic crown (calyx) at the base and a singular leaf curling from the stem. The piece transitions beautifully from a smooth, high-polish exterior to a darkened, textured core, providing satisfying visual and tactile contrast.
Key Features
The 'burst' seed texture, the realistically rendered calyx, and the significant thickness of the silver casting which protects the piece from the dents typically associated with keyrings.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) for the pomegranate fob; the split-ring is likely stainless steel for durability. Total silver weight estimated at 15-20 grams.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and hand-polished finish. Features a textured 'burst' opening showing the internal seeds, stylized leaf, and stem. The finish is characterized by intentional recessed darkening to highlight the seeds and organic shape.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Small, worn '925' stamp visible on the lower right side of the pomegranate body. There appear to be faint initials adjacent to the purity mark, likely a maker's mark consisting of two Hebrew or Latin characters.
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting (cire perdue). The fob consists of two components: the cast body and a soldered jump ring at the top. The surface retains a slightly pitted, organic texture characteristic of manual casting molds.
Functional Features
Heavy-gauge jump ring for secure attachment to the split-ring keychain. The pomegranate is solid or thick-walled for durability as a daily-use utility object.
Handle & Grip Details
Steel split-ring attachment; the silver pomegranate acts as a tactile 'worry stone' or grip for retrieving keys.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality casting for a commercial object; the joinery is strong, and the detailing of the crown shows attention to botanical accuracy.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' stamp is struck with a hand-die. The soldering of the top loop shows hand-finishing marks. The weight feels consistent with solid cast sterling rather than silver-plated base metal.
Origin & Manufacturing
Israel, likely a workshop in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem specialized in silver giftware and religious objects.
Era & Period
Modern Judaica Revival (late 20th century, c. 1970 - present). Reflects the Israeli 'Bio-form' movement that blends naturalism with religious symbolism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010 based on the style of the '925' stamp and the oxidation patterns.
Cultural Significance
Keyrings like these are popular Israeli souvenirs and gifts for occasions like Rosh Hashanah (where pomegranates are traditionally eaten) or new home blessings.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Typical micro-scratches from utility use. Significant tarnish/patina in the recessed areas is intentional but has deepened over time. The split-ring is a modern steel replacement.
Value Estimate
$45 - $75 USD. Value is driven by the silver weight and the appeal of the Judaica motif rather than a specific famous maker name.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a silver polishing cloth on the high-points only. Do not use chemical dips, as they will remove the intentional oxidation that gives the seeds their definition.
Similar Pieces
Bier Silversmiths Pomegranate, Hazorfim Pomegranate Fob, and Avi Luvaton contemporary designs. This piece is less geometric and more naturalistic than Hazorfim's typical output.
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is one of the Seven Species (Shivat Ha'minim) mentioned in the Torah and is a traditional symbol of righteousness, fertility, and abundance, said to contain 613 seeds corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments).