Israeli Sterling Silver Pomegranate Miniature Ornament
Decorative Object / Miniature Hollowware · Unknown Israeli Silversmith; typically produced by workshops in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem for the Judaica and giftware markets.
Pattern: Modern Pomegranate Design; a staple in contemporary Israeli silver production, symbolic of the 613 mitzvot.
Type
Decorative Object / Miniature Hollowware
Maker
Unknown Israeli Silversmith; typically produced by workshops in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem for the Judaica and giftware markets.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a red cord/ribbon accent around the calyx; likely hollow-formed (electroformed or thin-gauge silver).
Dimensions
Estimated 4cm-5cm in height; lightweight as it is likely a hollow shell, estimated 15-25 grams.
Description
A charming sterling silver miniature modeled after a pomegranate, a fruit deeply rooted in Middle Eastern and Jewish symbolism. The piece features a bulbous, hand-sized body with a polished surface that captures the light, topped with a flared crown. A red cord provides a pop of color, making it a popular gift during the Jewish New Year.
Key Features
Large circular recessed hallmark on the side of the body; stylized crown-like calyx; red cord accent; distinct electroformed feel.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with a red cord/ribbon accent around the calyx; likely hollow-formed (electroformed or thin-gauge silver).
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the body with an antiqued or matte interior on the crown (calyx) petals. Simple, organic form based on the fruit.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Circular recessed stamp containing '925R' or '925K' and 'GODS' or 'CODA'. The '925' indicates sterling purity; the accompanying letters are workshop identifiers.
Construction Details
Electroformed construction; a process where silver is layered over a wax or resin mold, providing a high-volume decorative appearance with minimal metal weight.
Functional Features
Purely decorative or symbolic; often used as a shelf ornament, table scatter for Rosh Hashanah, or a paperweight if weighted.
Handle & Grip Details
Stylized calyx (crown) at the top serves as a grip; red textile cord tied at the neck for contrast.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced utilizing a modern chemical/electrical deposit process (electroforming) rather than traditional silversmithing techniques like casting or forging.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' stamp is consistent with international sterling standards; surface texture suggests electroforming rather than traditional hand-raising from a sheet.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Israel; modern workshop production utilizing electroforming technology popular in the Levant region for large-scale hollowware.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern (late 20th to early 21st century); fits within the modern Judaica movement.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010 based on the style of the stamp and the fabrication method.
Cultural Significance
Representing fertility, abundance, and righteousness, this item is a common decorative motif in Jewish homes and is central to the Rosh Hashanah Seder table.
Condition Notes
Good condition with visible surface micro-scratches and light oxidation. The stamp area remains crisp but shows characteristic unevenness of modern mass-production strikes.
Value Estimate
$40 - $75 USD depending on weight and specific workshop identification.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and mild silver cream. Avoid abrasive dips as they may damage the red cord or the thin electroformed shell.
Similar Pieces
Borgila pomegranate miniatures, Hazorfim sterling fruits, or larger scale electroformed silver pomegranates from Hadad Brothers.
Interesting Facts
The pomegranate is one of the Seven Species of the Land of Israel; it is traditionally said to contain 613 seeds, corresponding to the number of commandments in the Torah.