What did people in the Bible wear as jewelry? And what does it mean when we wear similar things today?
Let’s talk about that, because jewelry in ancient Israel wasn’t just for beauty. It had meaning, and it told a story.
Jewelry in the Bible
In the Bible, jewelry is mentioned often. It was used to show love, identity, wealth, and sometimes worship.
One of the earliest stories is in Genesis 24. Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for his son Isaac. When the servant meets Rebekah, he gives her a gold nose ring and two gold bracelets. Why? Because she was kind, generous, and chosen by God for Isaac.
“Then the man took out a gold nose ring weighing a beka and two gold bracelets weighing ten shekels… and gave them to her.” – Genesis 24:22
This wasn’t just a gift. It was a sign of something holy. A beginning. A promise.
Another example is in Exodus. God commands Moses to make special clothes for the High Priest. One part is a breastplate with twelve stones, each one standing for a tribe of Israel. This was not for fashion. It was for remembrance. Every time the priest walked into the holy place, he carried the names of the people on his heart.
“There were twelve stones, one for each of the names of the sons of Israel…” – Exodus 28:21
(Hoard of silver jewelry, Eshtemoa (9th-8th BCE) inscription in ink with word "hamesh" in ancient hebrew script, meaning five hundred shekels in weight. Israel Museum, Jerusalem, Wikimedia, Chamberi)
What Kind of Jewelry Did They Wear?
Here are some of the most common types of jewelry in Bible times:
- Rings – on fingers, toes, and even noses
- Bracelets – for wrists and ankles
- Earrings – for women and sometimes men
- Necklaces – with beads, coins, or symbols
- Brooches or pins – used to hold clothing together
- Headbands or crowns – for brides or special events
They used materials like gold, silver, bronze, beads, stones, and even shells. These were not mass-produced. Every piece was handmade, often with deep meaning.
So What About Today?
Today’s jewelry from The Israel Store is about more than beauty—it’s heartfelt craftsmanship rooted in faith, identity, and the land itself.
Here’s what you’ll find:
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Israel Map with Star of David Necklaces
These stainless steel pieces trace the outline of Israel and feature the six‑pointed Star of David, clear, enduring symbols of faith and connection to the Holy Land. -
Stainless Steel Star of David Necklaces
A modern take on the Magen David, often with vibrant blue enamel accents that mirror the colors of Israel. Simple, durable, and meaningful. -
Shema Yisrael Prayer Necklaces (Stainless Steel)
A circular pendant inscribed with the Hebrew words of the Shema—one of Judaism’s most sacred prayers—so your faith is always close to your heart -
The Sapphire Tablets Necklace
A bold, one-of-a-kind piece in 18k white gold, set with sapphire corundum, 54 natural diamonds, and 4 blue sapphires—an elegant tribute to the stone tablets described in Exodus.
When you wear a piece like that, it’s not just jewelry. It connects you to something ancient and true. To Abraham, to Rebekah, to Moses and the people of Israel. It reminds us that faith is not just in our hearts, it’s also something we carry and show.
The Bible says in Proverbs 25:11,
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
Words matter. Symbols matter. And jewelry in the Bible was often used to show what mattered most, faith, love, honor, covenant.
Today, you can wear a piece of that same story. Not as a costume. Not just for looks. But as a sign that you remember where you come from, and where you belong.
That’s the power of ancient jewelry - and that’s what we’re bringing back, piece by piece.
