Star of David sales soar as Jews face unprecedented hate
Hundreds flock to buy treasured symbol of Judaism to show their pride and unity
Sales of Star of David jewellery have soared since the October 7 terror attacks in a defiant stand against rising hate and an expression of Jewish pride, Jewish News can reveal.
Several stores in London and jewellery makers in America told JN that demand has in some cases increased by more than 400 percent. It comes as communities globally report record levels of antisemitic incidents targeting Jews on public transport, in their homes, at work and on campus.
New York-based Rachie Shnay – who has a loyal celebrity customer base of Jewish women including Gal Gadot, Noa Tishby, Amy Schumer and Debra Messing – says demand for her collection of Judaica baguette rings and necklaces has soared six fold.
“We’re giving over 40 percent of proceeds to Israel,” she said. “Since 7th October, we’ve donated over £35000 to organisations including Hatzolah, Chabad of Sderot and the families of victims.”
The granddaughter of four Holocaust survivors says her diamond rings feature the words say ‘Am Y’Israel Chai’ – The People of Israel Live. “I wanted it to be on the outside, facing outwards. It stems from the fact that my grandparents are Holocaust survivors. The Nazis took the Magen David away from us and made it something we should be scared of. I wanted to take it from the ashes of the Holocaust and make it beautiful.”
Shnay has had an influx of interest from across Australia, London, Madrid, Canada, France and Scotland. One woman told her that she’d never worn a Magen David before. ‘”But she put on a necklace and said she felt she can breathe.”
In the UK, Cohens Jewellers in Temple Fortune has seen sales of Magen Davids double since the attacks in Israel.
Robert Cohen told Jewish News: “We’ve seen an increase in demand from all ages.
“Some are buying as gifts for newborn babies, and we are seeing people who aren’t particularly religious but are proud to show they are Jewish. It’s an equal mixture of self-purchase and gift purchase, including some men who have never worn jewellery before but feel passionate now about wearing a Star of David.”
“Some choose to wear a large one so it can be clearly seen and others opt for more discreet styles worn close to their hearts, either way, it’s encouraging to see.”
After being approached by Jewish News for this story, Cohens are now offering an additional 10 percent discount on all Magen Davids until December, on top of the 20 percent of proceeds going to Israel’s medical emergency service Magen David Adom and supplies for IDF soldiers.
Gary Rockman of Rockman Jewellery in Mill Hill, north London said their sales had doubled over the last three weeks.
Rockman said: “We were surprised but delighted – not just because it’s business, but because we are a local Jewish-run establishment.
“I think people want to stand up and not hide. Certain people have been intimidated by what is happening but others want to show their Judaism and how they are proud to be Jewish.”
Nelken Jewellers in Borehamwood, meanwhile, have seen a 300 percent increase in demand of Magen Davids and chais since October 7 and have had to order more stock. Managing director Edwin Nelken said: “People want to show solidarity with the Jewish community at the moment.”
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