Israeli Artisan Sterling Silver Pomegranate Key Ring with Cherry Glass Beads
Jewelry / Decorative Object (Key Ring) · Unidentified Israeli or Mediterranean Artisan Workshop. The style is highly characteristic of Israeli 'Bezalel-style' or Judaica silversmiths who utilize traditional Middle Eastern motifs for contemporary accessories.
Pattern: Traditional Pomegranate Motif Collection; a symbol of fertility, abundance, and righteousness in various cultures.
Type
Jewelry / Decorative Object (Key Ring)
Maker
Unidentified Israeli or Mediterranean Artisan Workshop. The style is highly characteristic of Israeli 'Bezalel-style' or Judaica silversmiths who utilize traditional Middle Eastern motifs for contemporary accessories.
Material
Sterling Silver (likely .925 purity) with red 'cherry' glass beads and a standard metal alloy split ring. The charms are connected via a waxed black cord.
Dimensions
Main pomegranate charm approximately 3-4 cm in length. Estimated total weight including glass beads: 25-35 grams.
Description
A charming and symbolic artisan key ring featuring a large, textured sterling silver pomegranate pendant. The pomegranate is depicted partially open, showcasing a cluster of silver seeds, symbolizing prosperity. Accompanying the central charm are three vibrant red translucent glass beads, accented by silver-tone decorative spacers including a star motif. The ensemble is suspended from a sturdy split ring by a thick black cord, blending traditional religious symbolism with everyday utility.
Key Features
High-relief 'open seed' pomegranate texture, vibrant cherry-red glass accents, star-stamped bead, and heavy oxidation for a 'distressed' vintage look.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (likely .925 purity) with red 'cherry' glass beads and a standard metal alloy split ring. The charms are connected via a waxed black cord.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to highlight the recessed areas of the pomegranate seeds and decorative beads. The pomegranate charm features a high-relief, three-dimensional representation of an open fruit revealing seeds. Decorative beads show filigree-style metalwork and a stamped star-in-circle motif.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the provided image. Israeli silver of this style is typically stamped '925' or 'STERLING' on the reverse of the main charm or on a small attached silver tag. The star motif may be a signature or a specific workshop mark.
Construction Details
Cast silver pomegranate charm; the decorative spacers are likely die-struck or cast. The assembly is hand-strung on a durable cord rather than soldered silver jump rings.
Functional Features
Standard split-ring mechanism for holding keys; the charms serve as heavy-weight decorative fobs to make the keys easily identifiable by touch.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Main grip is a standard steel-based silver-plated split ring.
Craftsmanship Details
Artisan-level casting with decent detail in the pomegranate husk. The use of a cord instead of silver chain suggests a more casual, 'folk-art' production style rather than high-end fine jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
The weight of the cast pomegranate and the specific 'peeled' fruit design are consistent with high-quality Israeli silver output. The presence of tool marks in the recessed seeds indicates a hand-finished casting.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Israel (Jerusalem or Tel Aviv region) or a Mediterranean workshop specializing in symbolic silver jewelry.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Modern (late 20th century to present). It reflects the revival of organic, symbolic design popular in boutique Jewish giftware and artisan craft markets.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - 2010. The condition of the cord and the modern casting style suggest a relatively recent production date.
Cultural Significance
Represents the fusion of religious symbolism with modern accessory design, serving as a talismanic object in everyday life while showcasing regional craft identity.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The silver shows a healthy natural patina (oxidation) consistent with use. Some surface scratches are visible on the split ring. The cord appears intact without fraying.
Value Estimate
$40 - $75 USD based on weight and artisan origin. The value is primarily in the design and sentiment rather than just the bullion weight.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish silver parts with a soft cloth. Avoid silver 'dips' which will strip the intentional black oxidation from the crevices. Avoid getting the black cord excessively wet.
Similar Pieces
Michal Negrin (finer floral details), Hazorfim (refined Judaica style), or 'Bezalel' school vintage pieces (usually more intricate filigree).
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to contain 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah. This makes it a popular motif for 'good luck' charms (Hamsas and Pomegranates).