Israeli Artisan Pomegranate Sterling Silver Keyring with Glass Beads
Jewelry (Keyring/Accessory) · Unidentified Israeli Artisan Workshop; likely a boutique manufacturer specializing in Judaica-inspired jewelry, often associated with workshops in Old Jaffa or Jerusalem.
Pattern: Modern Botanical Judaica; Pomegranate Motif
Type
Jewelry (Keyring/Accessory)
Maker
Unidentified Israeli Artisan Workshop; likely a boutique manufacturer specializing in Judaica-inspired jewelry, often associated with workshops in Old Jaffa or Jerusalem.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) charms and spacers, artisan glass beads (translucent red), and base metal/steel split ring.
Dimensions
Estimated 8-10 cm total length; silver components approx. 15-20 grams total.
Description
A charming and symbolic piece of artisanal silver, this keyring features the pomegranate, one of the Seven Species of Israel. The silver charms are heavily oxidized to create a vintage feel, contrasted against vibrant 'pomegranate seed' red beads.
Key Features
The textured pomegranate skin showing internal seeds, the five-pointed star medallion, and the distinctive lattice-work silver spacers.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) charms and spacers, artisan glass beads (translucent red), and base metal/steel split ring.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and antiqued finish to highlight recessed areas; features cast pomegranate charms with seed textures, decorative lattice spacers, and a stamped star medallion.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped '925' or 'Israel' on the loop or back of charms; no prominent maker's mark visible in the image, suggesting a smaller artisan workshop.
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting for main charms; hand-assembled on cord and wire loops; industrial split ring attachment.
Functional Features
Standard split ring for keys; decorative tassel arrangement for easy grip and visibility.
Handle & Grip Details
Braided cord and silver loops; the 'grip' is the cluster of charms themselves, designed for tactile utility inside a bag.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial artisan quality; well-executed casting with attention to relief texture, though elements like the split ring are mass-produced.
Authentication Indicators
Visual oxidation patterns consistent with silver; casting seams slightly visible; '925' hallmark likely present on the connecting rings.
Origin & Manufacturing
Israel; likely hand-finished in a studio environment using traditional Jewish motifs modernized for commercial use.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Judaica (late 20th to early 21st century); influenced by traditional Jewish symbolism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010; based on the style of the glass beads and the specific patination technique.
Cultural Significance
Represents fertility, abundance, and righteousness within Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures.
Condition Notes
Very Good; natural surface wear and minor scratches on the silver, characteristic oxidation/tarnish in crevices, beads appear intact without chips.
Value Estimate
$40 - $75 USD; value is primarily in the artisan design and silver content rather than a rare maker's brand.
Care & Maintenance
Gently clean with a silver polishing cloth; avoid chemical dips that would strip the intentional black oxidation in the crevices; check cord for fraying.
Similar Pieces
Often compared to work by Michal Negrin or Hagit Gorali, though those typically feature more floral or gemstone-heavy elements.
Interesting Facts
In Jewish tradition, the pomegranate is said to contain 613 seeds, corresponding to the 613 mitzvot (commandments) of the Torah.