Hamsa jewelry has claimed a special place within the Jewish jewelry niche which often draws on symbols from the Jewish tradition. In traditional Judaism, the Hamsa Hand is believed to help banish evil or any negative energy and bless its owners with luck and good fortune. Not surprisingly, Hamsa is used as a decoration on many kinds of objects and in home and office spaces. Blessings for the home or business, for example, are very popular, and so are amulets, Hamsa necklaces, charms, key rings and even mobile phones accessories.

The Hamsa Hand motif has also entered the field of fashion, and fashion accessories and jewelry in particular. Hamsa jewelry has enjoyed a growing popularity since it brings together faith and a personal style. However, many people choose to wear Hamsa jewelry regardless of religion because they are interested in the mystical world or just because they like the way it looks.

What is the origin of the Hamsa Hand?

The Hamsa has a shape of a hand with five fingers. However, unlike the normal human hand, the shape of a Hamsa Hand is symmetrical, with thumbs on both sides. The Hamsa Hand is an ancient motif that was adopted by both Jewish and Muslim nations. As archeologist findings suggest, the origins of Hamsa can be traced to thousands of years ago and even earlier…

In Islam, an alternative name for Hamsa is the Hand of Fatima or Eye of Fatima. The Fatima refers to Fatima Zahra, the daughter of Mohammad, the prophet of Islam. Judaism has adopted the Semitic name, but it bears no connection to Islam. In Hebrew, the Hamsa Hand is also known as the hand of Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron from the book of Exodus. Another alternative name is the hand of God.

Hamsa Jewelry -a way to ward off the Evil Eye

Hamsa jewelry often incorporates a number of different motifs that are believed to ward off evil. Based on the Kabbalah teachings, certain symbols are considered to bring good luck and abundance such as images of fish, birds and human eyes. In many types of Hamsa jewelry, the images of fish and eyes appear in the middle of the Hamsa Hand. Other items are inscribed with the Hebrew words from the Book of Psalms or other prayers like Tefilat Haderech, as well as Hebrew words or letters with Kabalist meaning. The combination of the Hebrew letters ‘Alef-Lamed-Dalet’, for examples, spells our one of God’s sacred names and can be found on many Hamsa pendants.

Hamsa jewelry has become a popular Jewish gift given on birthdays, anniversaries and even Valentine’s Day. A delicately designed Hamsa bracelet or Hamsa pendant says that someone has especially chosen a gift for you that fits your personal taste. Additionally, giving someone a protective good luck charm shows you care for them and their safety.

Hamsa jewelry in the field of Judaica

You can find many accomplished Judaica designers that specialize in Jewish jewelry and enjoy an international success. We are pleased to introduce you to several designers who live and work in Israel. Ester Shahaf is one of the leading Israeli Judaica artists.

Ester Shahaf’s Hamsa jewelry collection can be easily recognized by Shahaf’s signature look. Shahaf’s works capture the eye with their delicate designs that marry modern interpretation with the Jewish heritage and symbolism. Ester Shahaf’s Judaica artworks carry both western and oriental influences.

HaAri Jewelry handcrafts a variety of Jewish jewelry, with a special attention to Kabbalah jewelry. The studio creates uniquely designed pendants that draw on Jewish symbols as the Star of David and the Hamsa Hand. Many of the pendants are inscribed with Hebrew words from sacred Jewish texts.

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