Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Jewish Gifts for Your Mother


Every mother appreciates a gift from her child. Moms don’t want their children to go out of their way to buy something overly pricey. What they prefer is for their child to get a gift that is simple yet heavy in symbolical meaning. This can be just about anything; just the fact that it came from you will make it sentimental. However, if you can get the gift personalized, then it will give it even more meaning and make it that much more cherishable.

Jewish gifts such as jewelry often make great gift ideas. Kabbalah jewelry is one accessory that you can get that will make a great present for Mother’s Day or just whenever you want to show your mother that you appreciate her.

Designed Kabbalah jewelry for women


Kabbalah jewelry can take on various shapes and forms. Bracelets, rings and necklaces are the most common, but there are also earrings, anklets and even hair pieces available that can be found in most Judaica shops.

Bracelets and necklaces are often the first choices that people consider when getting a jewelry gift. They are easy to wear and are easily visible, which makes them great when wearing them for fashion.

With the diverse selection of jewelry available, you can pick out the piece that would be perfect for your mother based on the type of band and charms that are included.

 Red String Kabbalah bracelet


A red thread is the most common band used in Kabbalah bracelets. This is symbolical of the red string that was tied around Rachel’s Tomb. Rachel herself was also a devoted mother to Joseph and Benjamin, so a bracelet with a red band would make a terrific present for your mother. If you prefer, there are also bands made from gold and silver chains. If you opt for a ring or a bracelet with a solid band, then you can get a message inscribed in Hebrew. The message can express what your mother means to you.

Handmade Kabbalah jewelry can also include pendants and lockets. This may come with a trinket that can be opened with a small photo stored inside. The outer portion of the trinket may take the form of the hamsa hand or the evil eye. It may also come as a solid piece of metal with the inscription of the 72 Names of God or a prayer.

Whenever you wish to honor your mother, give her a jewelry that carries with it a value that is priceless beyond words.

Monday, March 5, 2012

Elijah's Cup plays an imporant role in the Passover Seder Ritual

Elijah's cup has a symbolic significance in the Passover Seder ritual. During the Seder, there are four expressions to describe our redemption involving the Exodus from Egypt and the birth of the Jewish nation. This is why we have five cups of wine. The first means “I will take you out”, the second means “I will save you”, the third means “I will redeem you” and the fourth means “I will take you as a nation”.

The fifth cup is Elijah’s Cup and plays an important role in the Seder.

Filling Up Elijah's Cup 

As dictated by tradition, at the end of the Seder meal a cup of wine is poured. This is what is known as Elijah’s Cup. It is filled and placed in the open front door of the home at which time there are Psalm verses recited to ask G-d to take his wrath and rain it down upon the oppressors and persecutors of the Jewish peoples. According to legend, at that very moment the home is graced by Elijah’s presence. This is a very old part of the Jewish tradition and there are several meanings behind it.

One meaning is connected to the description of Passover found in the Torah. Passover night is a guarded night when long ago G-d wrapped himself around the Jews in protection. This was His protection from the plaque that killed the first born Egyptian babies and the night that His protection over His chosen people was most obvious. By opening our doors and placing the wine in the threshold, we are showing the trust we still have in him to provide us with protection.

By opening up our doors we are opening up our hearts and home to Elijah and allowing him in. We don’t just do this on the eve of Seder. We also hold his presence dear when our male children are circumcised. During this special ceremony Elijah testifies that the Jews are scrupulous in regard to the mitzvah of the circumcision and testifies that all the men who are present at the ceremony are circumcised as well. 

This is an exciting time for the Jewish children as they all gather around Elijah’s cup to see if maybe they can glance a ripple in the wine. Any sort of movement gives hope that the prophet has actually joined them. This is a fun game of pretend when you are a child, but Elijah’s role in history is nothing to joke about. His cup holds special meaning for the Jewish people and serves as an inspiration, giving a deeper meaning and focus to the Seder.

This Elijah's Cup can be purchased at Judaism.com.

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Traditional and Modern Shabbat Candlesticks by Israeli Artists

Today, I'd like to show some unique designs of Shabbat Candlesticks by Israeli designers. Shabbat candlesticks make popular Jewish gifts since they are both decorative and practical..
Jewish people all around the world observe Shabbat by kindling lights and performing Kiddush service. And so, Shabbat candlesticks have become one of the most popular Judaica items.

Here I shall bring you Shabbat candlesticks in unique designs by Israeli designers . Israeli artists have created a wide selection of candlesticks in assorted materials and style. You can find these pieces at this Judaica Store.

Lighting Shabbat Candlesticks

The ritual of lighting Shabbat candles every Friday night before sunset, the Jewish family welcomes the Shabbat by lighting Shabbat candles. Two candles are traditionally lit to welcome the Shabbat. Around twenty minutes before the sun goes down, the mother or daughter says a quiet prayer while placing her hands over her eyes. In case there is no woman in the household, a man may light the candles.

The woman who recites the blessing covers her eyes so she would not enjoy the sacred candle light before blessing is completed. The blessing over the candles is: "Blessed are You, LORD, our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us to light the Shabbat candles". According to tradition, as Shabbat comes in, the skies open up, and it is time for the woman who recites the blessing to make her deepest wishes.

 Why do we light Shabbat candles?


The act of lighting Shabbat candles represents the Creation of the Light. In lighting Shabbat candles we fulfill two Mitzvahs: to honor the Shabbat, and bring domestic peace and tranquility (Shlom Bayit).

Decorative Shabbat Candlesticks - beautify the Shabbat Since it is important Mitzvah to honor the Shabbat, it is appropriate to beautify the ritual with special candlesticks. Shabbat candlesticks are made from assorted materials and styles. Shabbat candlesticks can be made from metal, wood, crystal and more. Shabbat candlesticks come in various styles: traditional or modern, western or eastern. Shabbat candlesticks will often include prominent Jewish symbols as Jerusalem or the Star of David.

Jerusalem Shabbat Candlesticks

Decorative Shabbat candlesticks make popular gifts for many Jewish occasions. Contemporary Judaica designers have created a wide selection of Shabbat candlesticks to glorify the Shabbat. You can also find travel Shabbat candlesticks, specially designed to be carried anywhere you go.

Travel Shabbat candlesticks

Whatever style you prefer, Shabbat candlesticks make a perfect gift for festive occasions in the Jewish home – weddings, housewarming, Bar or Bat Mitzvah and Jewish holidays.

Modern Shabbbat Candlesticks by Israeli artist Agayof


Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Give Someone a Luck Charm - Jewish Jewelry featuring the Hamsa Hand

If you're looking for a suitable gift for the upcoming holidays, a Hamsa hand necklace or a bracelet is a great idea. In the last few decades Hamsas have become very popular all around the world. The symbol has been adapted by various cultures including Islam and Judaism.
All around the world the Hamsa hand is basically used for the same purpose: to ward off the evil eye and bring good fortune.

Today, the Hamsa hand is one of the best known Jewish symbols. In Jewish tradition, the Hamsa Hand is associated with Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron.  It is called Hamesh in Hebrew, the hand of Miriam or the protected hand of God. In the Kabbalah the five stretched hand of the Hamsa hand are thought to represent the five books of the Torah.

The Hamsa hand thus, can be often seen on Kabbalah inspired jewelry. It should be noted
however, that the Hamsa hand is not a religious object.

Hamsa necklaces and bracelets become more and more popular since they bring symbolism and personal style. 

The shape of the Hamsa hand resembles of a hand with five fingers but unlike the human hand, the Hamsa Hand is symmetrical, with thumbs on both sides. Hamsa necklaces and bracelets often incorporate several motifs that are believed to ward off negative energies. Based on the Kabbalah teachings, certain symbols are considered to bring good luck and abundance such as images of fish and Hebrew inscriptions as the 72 Names of God.



Hamsa necklace or bracelet is a great gift for a family member or a good friend.

Here are my picks of Hamsa jewelry:

For women:

Hamsa necklace by Amaro Jewelry, sold by Canaan online.

Hamsa necklace by Adaya, sold by Amazon


For Men

Black Leather Hamsa bracelet, sold  Most Original - Unique Gifts Online!













72 Names of Gold Hamsa Pendant, sold by Most Original- Unique Gifts Online!

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Rosh Hashanah Honey Dish: A Well-Known Judaica Staple For a Sweet and Prosperous Coming Year

A highly recognized Judaica item is the honey dish, which is placed in the center of a table for a festive Rosh Hashanah supper. It’s the ideal addition to the Rosh Hashanah meal. In fact, many Jewish folks will buy a honey dish to present to friends, family or themselves as a gift. Judaica artists have designed an array of honey dishes in various styles and materials that will meet all needs and styles.

Why Is Honey Consumed On The Rosh Hashanah Holiday


Rosh Hashanah represents the start of the Jewish calendar New Year. On Rosh Hashanah eve, a festive meal often includes a variety of symbolic foods. A blessing is recited, and once done, honey-sweetened apples are consumed and blessings are given to every person at the table Le’shanah Tova Ve-metuka (or for a good, sweet year). 

Rather than dipping the Challah, which represents the sweetened bread mannah given to the Israelites by God, in salt like it’s done for Shabbat service, the Challah is dipped in honey. Sugary foods like raisins and apples are consumed during the Rosh Hashanah day. The honey is the main staple for the menu since it’s a reflection of what the year is to bring. According to tradition, honey is thought to be a sign for wealth. Thus, honey is seen as a metaphor for the continuous desire for having a prosperous year, and the blessing is to ensure that the year is as sweet as honey.

What’s On The Rosh Hashanah Table: Honey Dish

A special tray of sweet honey is placed onto the festive table, which is called a honey dish. It’s generally a plate attached to a removable bowl that permit users to wash effortlessly so it can be reused. There are often two spots designated for the honey dish; each placement has symbolic significance that relates to the holiday. The foods placed tend to be pomegranate seeds or apples that have been dipped in honey. It’s a custom to consume ripened pomegranate seeds during the Rosh Hashanah festive dinners. Apples and honey are often in one bowl and the pomegranate seeds in another.

Pomegranate Honey dish - Check a great selection at affordable prices Judaica 7 - Rosh Hashanah Products

The honey dish tends to includes conventional Rosh Hashanah decorations like the pomegranate. There are quite a few honey dishes that are decorated with drawings or shaped like pomegranates. It may also include some Hebrew inscriptions like:

Shana Tova Vemetuka – happy, sweet year
Shana Tova! – Happy New Year

The honey dish is both practical and ornamental and a very popular gift to give among the Jewish people around the globe. After all, it adds to the festivity and gives the table some color on the day that commemorates the start of a new year.

Israeli Judaica artists create one of a kind honey dishes in a variety of shapes and styles. These artists can combine the traditional and modern influences in a skillful manner, which means you can find them in conventional designs or metallic colors.


Wednesday, July 27, 2011

A Modern Jewish Gift - A Car Mezuzah: Get Some Protection inside Your Vehicle

A new item can be found in the niche of modern Jewish art. Have you heard about car Mezuzahs? More and more Jewish shops are selling them because more Jewish people are taking an interest in them. You may be wondering what a car Mezuzah is. It’s important to understand what a Mezuzah is first.

What is a Mezuzah ?

Essentially, a Mezuzah is placed up on the door posts inside Jewish homes. The Mezuzah holds just a roll of parchment that is inscribed by hand with certain Torah verses, which the Jews affix on their door. However, there are some rules regarding the Mezuzah production.  What are the rules?

- A kosher scroll inside the Mezuzah must be written by a Sofer Stam must use a black inedible ink with a special quill.
- It must contain verses that derive from the Torah:   The Vehaya (Deuteronomy 11: 13 – 21) and Shema (Deuteronomy 6: 4 -9).

 Mezuzah scrolls are to be kept inside a protective sheath that’s created using durable materials known as a Muzuzot. These are then placed onto the doorposts of all rooms of Jewish homes, property and business places. The only room not given Mezuzahs is the bathroom.

What Is The Car Mezuzahs Used For

The act of a Mezuzah hanging is a Mitzvah. Both the Vehaya and Shema verses mention the need to place the Mezuzah on the door posts of Jewish homes  It’s there to remind them about God’s presence and a declaration to accept his reward.


Car Mezuzah from Israel with Hoshen stones and a menorah  - find a wide selection at Judaica 7( price range from 5-10$ )Judaica 7 - Car Mezuzah Products,


Modern-day Jews feel the same thing needs to be done with the vehicles they drive. Thus, the reason the car Mezuzah was born. They’re placed either on dashboards or on the inner part of the door. They’re created in the same fashion as regular Mezuzahs using real Sofer stam.  Any mistake with the inscription process could make car Mezuzahs invalid. Thus, real Sofers are needed to do the inscription process.


There are all kinds of theories about whether or not a car Mezuzah is actually needed. However, it’s up to every person to have one or not. The majority of the items with car Mezuzot and Mezuzah are created with ornamental casings that are emblazoned with Hebrew letters. These things tend to consist of precious metals and adorned with ornamental precious stones. It’s not uncommon for car Mezuzahs to have the Torah traveling prayers engraved on the casing to protective drivers from harm.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Jewish Gifts by Contemporary Israeli Artists

Hundred of thousands of Jewish immigrants live in Israel, a state that was established as a homeland for all Jews. They emigrated from all across the world. This cultural diversity finds its expression in the unique mix of elements found in the local art that includes oriental and western influences – a very common feature in Israeli gifts designs. Many Jews choose to purchase Israeli made products as a way to support the state of Israel and the Israeli people.

Israeli made gifts, like all Israeli products meet high quality standards. Many of them have unique features not available anywhere else. Purchasing Israeli products have a social value since it carries a strong impact on the Israeli economy and on Israel's ability to overcome many obstacles . The web provides you with an immediate access to an overwhelming selection of unique Jewish  gifts by the best names who currently work in Israel.

Israeli Jewelry Designers

Jewish jewelry , inspired by Jewish and Israeli symbolism, is a field in high demand within the niche of Israeli gifts, producing some of the most popular Israeli gifts for customers from all over the world. There are two major kinds of Jewish jewelry artists: fashion Jewish jewelry designers and symbolic jewelry designers. Fashion Jewish jewelry artists often like to stay in tune with the current fashion trends and their designs are by no means of strict religious affiliation. In this niche, we can find several of the most successful Israeli jewelry designers who work today.

One of the best known artists is Orna Lalo. Lalo, a Shenkar graduate, is known for her playful spirit and imaginative eye. Lalo's Jewelry collection can be easily recognized by Lalo's signature look. Lalo creates chic jewelry for women that have a playful sense of fashion. Her exceptional collections include colorful necklaces, several in retro style, earrings, and rings, all of which are handmade in Israel from natural materials. Lalo's items are sold by Canaan Online.


Adina Plastelina is a famous Israeli Studio design, well exemplifies how current fashion designers combine the old with nevou. This studio that is located in the old city of Jaffa, creates its innovative designs using an ancient technique - the Millefiori process. The Millefiori process, which literally means "a thousand flowers", is an ancient glasswork technique that produces distinctive polished patterns. Though originally applied on glassware,  Millefiori process is applied on polymer clay and silver. The result is most extraordinary colorful items with a lustrous appearance.

Other artists focus on jewelry that carries a symbolic significance by incorporating prominent Jewish motifs, such as the Star of David, Hamsa hand, the seven species that the land of Israel was blessed with and more. The Hamsa hand, also known in Jewish tradition as the Hand of Miriam or the protective hand of God is believed to protect against the evil eye and bless the ones who keep it with good fortune. Israeli Design studio, HaAri Jewelry gives a special attention to Kabbalist jewelry. Check their official site .

Many of the pendants in HaAri Jewelry's original designs are inscribed with Hebrew words from sacred Jewish and Kabbalist texts. A popular theme in Kabbalah inspired jewelry is the 72 names of God which is considered by Kabbalah as a tool that enhances positive changes in our lives.
One of God's 72 sacred names, Alef-Lamed-Dalet is believed, like the Hamsa hand, to ward off the evil eye.Another great example would be MIZZE Jewelry - Made for Luck who creates a wide variety of handmade jewelry for good fortune and blessings such as this Hamsa bracelet. Check their beautiful collection of Handmade Kabbalah Jewelry.


 

Hamsa Hand designs make some of the most popular gifts by Israeli designers. This popular symbol is used as a decoration on many kinds of objects and in home and office spaces. Blessings for the home in Hebrew and in English are very popular Israeli gifts and so are amulets and even key rings. Other popular Israeli gifts are ritual objects: Shabbat Candlesticks, Tefilin, Tallit (Jewish prayer shawl), Torah Pointer and more.



Ritual objects make popular gifts for Bar Mitzvahs, Bat Mitzvahs and weddings. Check this beautiful mezuzah case by Israeli Judaica designer Danon:


Yair Emanual, for example, incorporates Jewish and Israeli motifs, as the breathtaking landscape of Jerusalem, in his wonderful, colorful designs that immediately capture the eye.  Best prices on Judaica 7.


Other ritual objects that give a great idea for useful gifts from Israel come from the Jewish holidays. On Rosh Hashana, common Israeli gifts are honey dishes or Rosh Hashana plates. On Hanukkah, many people like to give uniquely designed menorahs that are also very popular as weddings gifts. To celebrate the spring, Judaica designers have made a broad selection of Seder plates in many materials and styles. Indeed, Israeli Judaica artists make a great contribution to the wide selection of originally designed Israeli gifts for the various occasions in the Jewish home.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Jeusalem Kiddush Cup : Welcome Shabbat with the Images of the Holy City

Friday evening in the Jewish home is a special time in which the entire family gathers around the table welcomes the Shabbat.  The ritual that sanctifies the Shabbat is known by its Hebrew name - the Kiddush, and is part of Kabbalah Shabbat.During the service blessings are recited over a cup of wine and a loaf of bread (Challah) .

Why to perform a Kiddush?
This service is meant to observe one of the requirements asked in the Ten Commandments that were given to us by God: to remember the Shabbat (“Shamor”) and acknowledge its uniqueness.  While blessing is recited by the head of the family, a wine is poured into a Kiddush cup. Following recitation of blessings, each member of the family at their turn drinks from the Kiddush cup.

According  the Jewish principle  any cup will do for Kiddush, even the simplest one. However, to honor the Shabbat, a goblet is often used. This is a Jewish principle commonly known as hiddur mitzvah which expresses the will to lovingly embrace religious practice. Blessing over a fine Kiddush cup thus serves as a way to glorify the Shabbat. Artistic Kiddush cups are given as gifts   for many Jewish occasions   such as  Jewish holidays, weddings and housewarmings.

Jerusalem Inspired Kiddush Cups

I've chosen to bring your here several Kiddush cups that include Jerusalem as a central motif. .  Whether Orthodox, Reform, Secular or outside of any religious definition, Jewish people from the wide spectrum of Jewish identities keep Jerusalem close to their heart .
Hundred thousands of Jews  come to Israel every year to visit the holy city of Jerusalem, Numerous holy sites, such as the Tower of David and the Wailing Wall is a source of inspiration to believers as well as Jewish artists. This magnificent Kiddush cup is carved with the beautiful images of Jerusalem on silver. You can find these items and more here: Judaica 7 - Kiddush Cups Products.

You can find beatiful Kiddush cup in a wide range of assorted materials and prices. Below is a hand painted wooden cup by Israeli artist Yair Emanuel.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Top 10 Gift Ideas for Jewish Mum on Mother's Day

In honor of Mother's day, today I will bring you great gifts ideas for your one and only Jewish mother. Our Jewish mothers take good care of us all throughout the year, they always make sure we eat on time and keep warm even as we hit 30s and 40s.

 So here-follow a list of several great items that you just can't go wrong with. One more thing , however, even if you do pick a gift for your Jewish mum , do not forget  to also tell her that you love her. A gift card sometimes turns the gift into a perfect experience. 
1. Fashion jewelry by Israeli designers.  Two great option would be a necklace by Amaro jewelry. Irit Goffer Sasson , the head designer of Amaro is a successful business woman and a mother of three, has become a role model for women. Another option would be a butterfly pendant by Israeli jewelry design studio Adina Plastelina. Sold at Canaan-Online.
 
 2. Another great idea is a Hebrew name necklace. Hebrew name necklaces can be found online and vary in design, size, and cost.  You have various options at Israel Catalog  to find the necklace that is right for you.  There are numerous necklaces to choose from and different price ranges to fit every individual’s budget.  The site even has a clearance section for those looking for a great bargain.    

3. Dead Sea cosmetics - a wonderful gift to all women doming directly from Israel! The Dead Sea has become widely known for it benefits for the skin. Jewish web stores offer special sales that you might wanna check. There is a wide selection of products on Judsaica web store and Israel catalog.

4. Have a Little Faith: A True Story by Jewish author Mitch Albom who also wrote Tuesdays with Morry.  This is a witty, enjoyable and inspirational book.
   














5. Traveler' Prayer leather bracelet - Most Original offers this beautiful leather bracelet , inscribed with the text of Tefillat Haderech for keepsake and guard. Go to Handmade Jewelry Online!


6. Kosher cookbooks always make great addition to a Jewish kitchen. Here's a recommendation for a wonderful cookbook  - Quick & Kosher .













6. Hamsa sculpture by David Gerstein.  Contemporary Israeli art is a great source for original gifts. Check this beautiful Hamsa by renowned Israeli artist David Gerstein. Sold by Most Original Bronze & Ceramic Sculptures!
7. Be Lucky Bracelet a beautiful piece of jewelry by an aspiring studio named Beadart, sold by Judaica7.com,
8. Jerusalem Jewelry Box Yair Emanuel, a well known Israeli artist who is based in Jerusalem, has created an amazing series of handmade Jewelry boxes. Each box is hand-painted on both sides with beuatiful Jewish motifs as the ancient city of Jerusalem. The jewelry boxes are sold at lowest prices at Judaica7.
9. Anything by Ayala Bar will make any woman happy.

Check this beautiful necklace or unique bookmark. Amazon offers an exclusive collection. Each collection is limited.
















      10. Bookend by Israeli artist Or Niv. Sold at Canaan Online

      Wednesday, January 12, 2011

      Star of David in Kabbalah - 72 Names Pendant

       This beautiful pendant features the most prominent Jewish motif - the Star of David. As you can see in the image it is also inscribed with the 72 Names of God - a spiritual tool used by  Kabbalah to enhance positive changes in our lives. Together they create a powerful Jewish charm.

      So what are the 72 Names according to Kabbalah?
       
      The sacred names are comprised of 72 three-letter combinations from the book of Exodus from which the Kabbalah derives its answers to various aspects of life such as love and health. Each of the 72 names of God has its unique spiritual energy energy depending on the purpose. Aleph-Lamed-Dalet is a combination used to ward off the Evil Eye, Shin-Lamed-Heh is used to imbue love and relationship and so on.
       
       Star of David and Kabbalah

      The Star of David is a popular motif in Kabbalah jewelry. The Star of David has been used as a protective amulet in many cultures across Europe. The Star of David had used in religious practices to fight demons and evil spirits. The shape of the six pointed star was the Star of David was believed to possess special supernatural qualities. Similarly, the Kabbalah practitioners used the Star of David as a tool to ward off negative energies. You can find this Kabbalah pendant at the Israeli gifts store.
       
       

      Due to its special shape, the Star of David is believed to draw powerful energies that provide the wearer with blessing and protection.

      Contemporary Israeli designers have created wide secetion of handcrafted Kabbalah jewelry accessories that incorporate the Star of David motif. 
       
       

      Thursday, July 15, 2010

      Red String Hamsa Bracelet - what's all the fuss about?

      Have you ever wondered why so many Jewish people (including non-Jews and many celebrities) wear red string bracelets? What's the use of the red string by the Kabbalah? Here's an article that provides some interesting answers about the spiritual qualities that are attributed this Jewish luck charm. Just click on the link!

      Red String Hamsa Bracelet - All the luck You need

      Thursday, June 24, 2010

      An Amazing wall hanging Hamsa by Israel artist Ester Shahaf


      I think this amazing gift speaks for itself! This is one of Canaan-online best-sellers. The piece is handmade and signed by the artist, Ester Shahaf.

      Ester Shahaf is one of the most productive Israeli Judaica artist. Ester Shahaf skillfully combines western and oriental influences to create her signature look. The Hamsa hand, which can easily be hung on a wall is meticulously hand-painted and decorated with Swarovski crystals, brass copper accent and beads.

      This unique design includes two prominent Jewish motifs  The Hamsa hand, a traditional symbol against the evil eye and a dove - he ultimate symbol of peace. Together they two symbols create a wonderful Jewish amulet that will add warmth to any living room. 

      Thursday, January 21, 2010

      meet Israeli designer Ori Niv

      Ori Niv must be one of the most distinctive and productive Israeli designers. Ori creates his cool designs by using innovative techniques and lots of imagination.

      Most of Ori Niv's works are made from laser-cut metal. Many of his works are not only decorative but also handy and fun to use. Among Ori's best-known works you can find the Saxophonist coin holder shown at the image,  astonishing bookends, toothpick holders and much more. Ori's decorative sculptures are sold across Israel.

      You're invited to take a look at Ori's works at Canaan Online.

      Tuesday, December 15, 2009

      Jack Jaget's Magical Judaica books


      If you're looking for truly extraordinary Jewish gifts, you must take a look at the artworks by Israeli artist, Jack Jaget.


      Jack Jaget has become internationally known for his wonderful designs of Judaica books. Jaget is a graduate of Music and Art High School and the Cooper Union Art School of New York. Born in America, Jaget now lives and works in Israel. Jack Jaget has designed books for major publishing companies in the US, winning many prestigious awards, including Best 50 Books.
      Jack Jaget's Judaica books include the Bible, book of Psalms Siddur and more. These designed editions make great gifts for Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.

      Jakc Jaget's Judaica books are encased in handcrafted covers of precious woods, leather and gold-plated metals. Meticulously hand-painted with fine lacquers and gold leaf, these fine materials are treated to look as if they are from the middle ages. Jack Jaget's Judaica books often come with full-color illustrations.

      Additionally, Jack Jaget's designs many kinds of religious articles including mezuzah cases, Tzedakah box and Torah pointers.

      Check our more reviews on Israeli Judaica.

      Thursday, November 12, 2009

      Amaro Jewelry - Israeli jewelry at its best


      This beautiful Hamsa necklace, which I'm pretty sure that every woman, would like to have, comes from a renowned Israeli jewelry design studio, Amaro Jewelry. Irit Goffer-Sasson, a career woman and a mother of four, runs this successful company. A graduate of Instituto Europeo di Design in Italy, Goffer Sasson has become known for her imaginative eye and distinctive style. Today, Amaro is one of the best known Israeli jewelry design studio in the international market. Amaro's magnificent collections can be found in jewelry shops in Israel and all across the world.

      This Hamsa necklace is one of the most popular items by Amaro jewelry. I have chosen to introduce you this piece because it well exemplifies what has become known as Amaro style. This piece shows Goffer-Sasson's unique style which combines western and oriental elements. Goffer-Sasson's signature look has gained world-wide reputation and for a good reason. As a constant traveler, Irit Goffer-Sasson draws her inspiration from her surroundings. This Hamsa necklace by Amaro Jewelry is gold plated and set with semi-precious stones.

      Hamsa necklaces or pendants are always great gifts for someone that you care about or yourself. The Hamsa hand is an ancient motif that is believed to ward-off the evil eye. The Hama has been adopted from Islam by Judaism and western culture. Today Hamsa is one of the most popular luck charms, worn by millions men and women around the world, including celebrities.

      You can also visit Amaro official website

      Monday, November 2, 2009

      Hanukkah menorah -traditional or modern?


      How to choose Hanukkah menorah that best meets your needs?

      If you are looking to buy a new menorah as a gift to someone or yourself, first you need to decide which style you prefer, traditional or modern.

      Judiaca artists have created an overwhelming selection of Hanukkah menorahs in assorted materials and styles. Some designers and Judaica admirers prefer classic Hanukkah menorahs. Traditional Hanukkah menorahs usually include prominent Jewish motifs as the Star of David or the landscape of Jerusalem. The Israeli museum in Jerusalem has also created a replica of early 20th century Polish Hanukkah menorah which is truly remarkable. You can get many kinds of traditional Hanukkah menorah in affordable prices.

      Another option would be contemporary designs. Contemporary Judaica artists have used their imagination to create Hanukkah menorahs in unusual and surprising designs. For example you can find Hanukkah menorah shaped as dreidels or a tree  - click here for more details. One of the most popular designs from the Israeli market is the Tzuki menorahs, in which family members stand as candleholders. Imagination has no limit!













      If you're looking for something in between, I suggest you take a look at Ester Shahaf's menorahs.

      Sunday, October 25, 2009

      Israeli Judaica


      In the last decade, contemporary Judaica art has become a field in high demand. Contemporary designers aspire to design religious articles in a way that would be unique and unusual. Modern Judiaca artists combine modern art with ancient Jewish traditions. It is exactly this combination that makes them so unique. Israeli artists make some of the best known names in the field of Judaica art. By adding a dimension of israeli symbolism, these designers make a significant contribution to the wide selection of judiaca artworks. Contemorary Jewish art include mezuzahs, Passover Seder Plates, Hanukah menorahs, designed editions of prayer books and much more. Judiaca artworks make a great source for Jewish gifts for many kinds of occasions.

      Amonng notable Israel Judaica artists you can find Tzuki Design. Their works can be easily recognized by their cheery colors and humor. The family tree Hanukkah menorah is one of the best selling Judaica artworks by Israeli artist. In his unique modern style, Shraga Landesman works expressed his yearning forthings that have long lost in the world. I also like to mention one of the best known Israeli artists - Yair Emanuel who borrows from the scenery of Jerusalem. My personal favorite Israeli Judaica desginer is Yossi Steinberg.

      Monday, October 19, 2009

      Support Sderot with Art


      The project dove is a recent project that has been launched to support the city of Sderot. Israeli artist Eldor Levy has created 1000 pieces of a sculpture of a dove. Eldor has served in Sderot as an IDF soldier and witnessed the harsh reality of Sderot under the constant rocket fire.

      This piece of art is a protest against terror: the universal symbol of piece is made of actual pieces of Quassams, the missles used by terrorists that have taken the lives of innocent people and brought destruction upon the city of Sderot.

      The profits will be used to create meaningful employment opportunities in a city that has high unemployment ratio due to the security situation and history of ongoing attacks. The profits will also be used to build a music park for the children of Sderot.

      In addition to receiving a unique piece of art, purchasing this product has a social significance: a contribution to the community that has lived under the terrorists' attacks for more than nine years.

      With this purchase, you have the power to make a difference. Show your solidarity by supporting the people of Sderot. click on the image to purchase!

      Thursday, October 8, 2009

      Hebrew speaking dictionary - a great find to anyone who learns Hebrew


      If you're interested in learning Hebrew, or knows someone who does, here's a perfect gift for you- Hebrew speaking dictionary. Thanks to modern technology, this product can totally change your learning experience.

      Hebrew, the sacred language of the bible, is meaningful to every Jewish person. Looking back 60 years ago, it is astonishing to think that Hebrew wasn't used on a daily basis until 1948, when Israel was established. Many Jewish American today learn Hebrew to strengthen the bond with their heritage and the state of Israel.


      This dictionary is produced with this audience in mind. The Hebrew speaking dictionary uses a human voice that allows you to hear how the word is pronounced in Hebrew.

      With this Hebrew speaking dictionary it will be easier for you to speak and read Hebrew.

      The dictionary contains a two-way dictionary in Hebrew and English, and other benefits: an organizer, diary, alarm clock, telephone and address book. This product is only available on the internet, you can click on the image tto purchase the item in special price at Israel catalog.

      Wednesday, October 7, 2009

      Tzuki Design – Humor and spirituality come together in Jewish art



      Did you know that Judaica items can be cheerful? The products by Tzuki design Israel are sure to elevate your spirit. Tzuki Design was established by two talented Israeli artists, Orna Cohen Hazam and Shay Peled. Their colorful artworks that are handcrafted in Israel humorously celebrate the Jewish tradition.

      Not only do they add joyful spirit to the Jewish holiday by creating delightful Judaic artworks, Cohen Hazam and Peled provide various elderly organizations in Israel with different types of therapeutic work.
      The works of the Israeli due is sold in galleries, museum shops and boutiques throughout the world.

      Judaica artworks by Tzuki Design make wonderful and original gift ideas for almost any occasion, and they are sure to put a smile on the recipient's face. Here are several examples of their unique works: take a look and answer this- aren't they irressitable?

      In the image above: Shabbat Candlesticks by Tzuki Design.

      Hanukkah Menorah by Tzuki Design