The Star Of David – Often Worn As Jewellery

1. The Star Of David – Often Worn As Jewellery The Star of David is easily recognised in all parts of the world, whether you attach any religious meaning to it, or not. SOME HISTORY Even though many people wear a Star of David piece of jewellery today, not everyone knows where this symbol, which has been popularised over time, came from. Originally it had no religious connotations and was seen as decoration or as a magical sign. Its origins go back centuries, even to a time long before the Middle Ages when it was seen more regularly. The shape of the Star of David is typically that of a hexagram, which appears as two triangles, one draped over the other. Although today it is a recognised symbol of Israel and a general sign of Judaism, that was not always the case. Until the Middle Ages, for example, it carried no religious meaning and can still be seen in some old cathedrals. MAGEN DAVID It is also referred to as the Magen David/Mogen David and means the ‘Shield of (King) David’ and was adopted by the Jews of 17th-century Prague as a symbol for being Jewish. Today, of course, the Star of David adorns the flag of Israel, It is seen in Jewish homes, on tombstones and synagogues, and it is worn as a piece of jewellery around one’s neck – and not always exclusively by Jews. However, chances are that when a non-Jew wears the Star of David around the neck, they are sensitive to and supportive of the state of Israel and the more significant Jewish cause. The Star of David became more widely known as a Jewish symbol in Eastern Europe from the 19th century, and by the end of the First World War there was no longer any uncertainly: it had become a symbol for the aspirations of Jews, and also with some religious connotations – just as the cross had become the symbol of Christian values and beliefs. THE HOLOCAUST Everybody has seen films or TV programmes depicting the horrors of World War II and how Jews were ‘marked’, i.e. by being forced to wear the Star of David on all clothing items. This was used as a sign of identification by the Nazis. In the late 1930s, when it was evident that the Nazis were preparing for war, no Jews were allowed (even before they were sent to the camps) to appear in public without the Star of David to identify them on the street. Initially, the Star of David came in more colours, but in the end, the yellow Star of David became the symbol of being the target of the Nazis.

2. THE STAR OF DAVID IN MODERN TIMES Today the Star of David is one of the most recognizable symbols of Zionists globally and, of course, the broader Jewish community, which was cemented with it being chosen to appear on the first Jewish national flag, as was decided at the First Zionist Congress which took place in 1897. It is seen at Jewish functions, at religious meetings, in Jewish places of learning and many locales with a strong sense of Jewish community life. As jewellery, it has become popular to be worn by both sexes and all age groups, by Jews and non-Jews alike. Finding the Star of David as a piece of jewellery is not that difficult either, and you are likely to come across retailers and jewellers in big cities such as New York, Sydney, London and everywhere in Israel where it is sold. In London, for example, David Deyong is well-known for their Satr of David jewellery, among the many choices that they have available for customers looking for good jewellery. The Star of Davis is a widely recognised symbol of the Jewish people, and it is no wonder then that it has become popular as a piece of jewellery too. About Us David Deyong is known for the quality Sterling Silver jewellery they market to their clients all over the UK and further afield. Their jewellery is available from their stores in London but also from numerous stockists throughout the UK, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, the Channel Islands, overseas and also online. They offer a great selection that includes fine pieces for women, men and children and choices range from rings, earrings and necklaces to bracelets. Every piece is meticulously designed and put together with great care. The company is run by a successful husband and wife team whose mission remains to offer the best quality products and personalised service. For more about the company please visit https://www.daviddeyong.co.uk/.