Holy Gold!

 

Do you wear religious symbols made of gold? Do you have a cross around your neck or a Star of David on your wrist? You are not alone. Religious gold symbols are a major part of the gold business and an important part of people’s lives.
So many of us believe so strongly in the power of deities and unseen forces, that we look to medals and other tokens to protect us and bless us with safety, good luck, riches, and more. Others of us may not feel so strongly about the power of the religious symbols that we wear, but we respect them and enjoy wearing them.
There are many items available out there in the market place, let’s look at just a few of them. Perhaps one or two will be of interest to you.
In the Catholic Church, its adherents being great lovers of religious jewelry, the First Holy Communion is a major event in the life of a young follower and many items can be bought and worn in commemoration of the occasion. Quite often, this is in the form of a pendant worn by the 7 or 8 year old that has just completed their initiation into partaking in Holy Communion. Also quite popular is the St. Christopher pendant. This is believed to protect and keep the person safe. It is often found in vehicles.
One of the most popular, if not the most popular, of all religious items made of gold is the simple cross. A symbol of the sacrifice of Jesus, this universal symbol is recognizable by people of all faiths the world over. The cross has become so ubiquitous that it is often worn by people with no real religious beliefs at all. This can often be a bit unsettling to those that wear the cross and take its meaning very seriously.
In the Jewish faith, jewelry is also quite important and the Star of David is perhaps the most common symbol of religious belief worn by many believers. It is also called the ‘Shield of David’ and some say it was the shape of his shield. Also quite popular in Jewish jewelry but not necessarily religious is the Mizpah. This is a necklace with two parts soldered together lightly in the middle. After purchased, the piece is separated into two and each partner gets one half. This is to remind them of, and signify, their bond despite being separated.
Since Rome in Italy is the center for the Catholic faith and Israel is the center for the Jewish faith, many businesses have been set up as manufacturers and sellers of these special items in these hallowed places. This can add to the perception of their authenticity and value.
Some other items you may have heard of, seen – or even own – are: mariner’s anchors, Italian horns, and rosaries. There are also four-way medals and crosses and a whole host of saints to choose from to adorn your neck or wrist. There are also many Buddhist symbols and the fish, as pictured, is also a contemporary and popular Christian symbol. If you are interested in adding some religious jewelry to your personal collection, ask your favorite jewelry. Surely they can lead you to the right path.