Israeli Sterling Silver Pomegranate Miniature Ornament
Decorative Object / Ornament · Hazorfim (likely) or associated Israeli silversmith. Hazorfim is the most world-renowned Israeli silver brand, founded in 1952 by immigrants who brought European silversmithing traditions to the Levant.
Pattern: Traditional Judaica Pomegranate Collection; common in contemporary Israeli silver production since the mid-20th century.
Type
Decorative Object / Ornament
Maker
Hazorfim (likely) or associated Israeli silversmith. Hazorfim is the most world-renowned Israeli silver brand, founded in 1952 by immigrants who brought European silversmithing traditions to the Levant.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Consists of a hollow silver body; the weight is light, likely under 30 grams. Red cord or ribbon attached for hanging.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 cm in height and 3-4 cm in diameter. Miniature individual size, weighing approximately 15-25 grams.
Description
A charming sterling silver miniature in the form of a pomegranate, a sacred fruit in Mediterranean and Jewish culture. The piece features a smooth, high-shine surface that captures light, topped with a detailed five-pointed crown. Such items are frequently given as gifts during Rosh Hashanah or as housewarming blessings (Birkat HaBayit).
Key Features
Hand-stamped circular hallmark on the lower body; stylized botanical crown; high-polish finish; symbolic pomegranate form representing fertility and righteousness.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Consists of a hollow silver body; the weight is light, likely under 30 grams. Red cord or ribbon attached for hanging.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on a bulbous body. The top is fashioned into a stylized calyx (crown) typical of the fruit. Minimalist Modernist style often seen in 20th-century Judaica.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The prominent circular stamp contains '925' in the upper half indicating sterling silver and 'ST' or a Hebrew manufacturer's logo in the lower half. This is a standard Israeli export/purity mark format.
Construction Details
Spun or die-struck hollow construction. The body is formed from two parts or a single deep-drawn shell, with the crown piece soldered to the neck.
Functional Features
Closed hollow form intended for display; includes a suspension loop (hidden by the red cord) for hanging as a decorative ornament or 'charitable' token.
Handle & Grip Details
No handle; features a petal-edged calyx top that serves as the decorative finial. Attached is a red textile cord for hanging.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-assisted production with hand-finishing and soldering. The alignment of the hallmark indicates it was struck manually after the piece was formed.
Authentication Indicators
The '925' stamp is consistent in font and depth with Israeli sterling standards. The construction exhibits industrial precision characteristic of modern specialized silver workshops.
Origin & Manufacturing
Israel, likely a workshop in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Reflects a blend of Eastern European silversmithing techniques and Middle Eastern botanical motifs.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Late 20th Century (1970-present). The pomegranate is a recurring motif in the 'New Bezalel' and modern Israeli craft movements.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The clarity of the stamp and the specific style of the hanging cord suggest relatively modern production.
Cultural Significance
The pomegranate is one of the 'Seven Species' of the Land of Israel. This item serves as a portable symbol of prosperity and religious heritage, often used in home decor or as a Succot decoration.
Condition Notes
Very Good. There is visible tarnish (sulfide deposits) around the crown and neck area where the red cord is tied. No significant dents or deep scratches are visible in the image.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD. Value is driven by silver weight and the reputation of the specific Israeli workshop if the lower logo is definitively identified as Hazorfim.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver foam/cream like Wright's. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reach the crevices of the crown. Avoid getting the red cord wet as the dye may bleed onto the silver.
Similar Pieces
Often compared to similar items by Bier Silversmiths or Hadad Brothers. Those may feature filigree or 'Yemenite' silver work, whereas this piece is smooth and modern.
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to have 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah. Silver versions like this were popularized as 'tokens of abundance'.