Jewish Messianic Jewelry

Jewish Messianic jewelry involves the incorporation of two religious beliefs, Judaism and Christianity into various jewelry designs. Many of the designs, usually made from gold, silver and various metal alloys, reflect a more traditional approach to belief in the coming of the Messiah at the End of Days. Pieces, depicting Jewish religious designs include Star of David charms, mezuzahs, seven branched menorahs, and many with inscriptions from the Kabbalah. Alhough usually forbidden by ultra orthodox Jews, these pieces are becoming more and more popular with both Jews and non-Jews alike; particularly the ones dealing with the Kabbalah.

Another section of messianic jewelry is being created and worn by Jews who believe that Jesus is the true messiah. Jewelry created with this revelation in mind often incorporates both Jewish and Christian motifs into the same piece of jewelry. Some jewelry pieces, known as Qumran jewelry, relate back to time when a group of deeply religious people, known as the Essenes, lived in the Qumran caves located above the Dead Sea. This group, who are believed to have lived during the time of Jesus, are said to be the writers of the historically famous Dead Sea Scrolls; and many Qumran jewelry pieces include verses which came from the Qumran scrolls.

Messianic jewelry leaning more towards Christianity includes crucifixes combined with Jewish motifs, indicating the combining of the two religious branches. Many pieces are based on early Christian relief's which depict primitive crucifixes inlaid upon menorahs or six pointed hexagrams.

Although still relatively small in numbers, there are a growing number of people who refer themselves as Messianic Jews, who consider themselves to be Jewish, while believing that Jesus is the Messiah. Messianic jewelry is very popular with these people who often wear pendants, bracelets and earrings with these combined religious symbols.

Messianic jewelry pieces, although occasionally found in jewelry shops, are more readily found in New Age products stores, as well as in Christian gift shops. They are also found in a number of internet websites dealing with religious and messianic jewelry.

Some Messianic jewelry pieces use ancient Roman coins as well as glass in the fabrication of jewelry items, as a historical reminder of the times in which Jesus lived and died. Other types of jewelry pieces include bracelets (many with semi-precious stones) earrings, and other jewelry creations. As true authenticity is important when purchasing these and other historically connected pieces, it is important to rely on the reputation and integrity of the store or website selling the jewelry.