DESCRIPTION: This pin depicts a five-branch menorah, not often seen in jewelry. According to the blog "Aish Tamid 621," this menorah represents the five levels of the soul, according to Kabbalistic teaching. They are called (in ascending order) Nefesh, Ruach, Neshama, Chaya and yechida. This menorah usually sits on the cantor’s stand in a synagogue. "It is for those in their year of mourning of a deceased loved one."

I'm guessing this may be a piece of mourning jewelry. The crossed "ribbons" may be a stylized tallit (prayer shawl). I've been collecting jewelry for more than 30 years and have never seen anything like this.

Appears handwrought and made of silver-plated (on the front) pot metal or patinized pewter. Thick and heavy. It is a beautiful piece of jewelry.

Features a rollover clasp with an older-style pin hinge. I believe this is from the 1930s or 40s, but being a non-commercially made piece, it's difficult to date.

SIZE: Approx. 2" high x 2 1/4" wide

CONDITION: Very good. The front plating shows patina in several places, and some of the plating is worn. The back appears to not be plated and exhibits overall patina. Any imperfections in the metal were in the making of the pin.

This item is sold from a vintage boutique in York, Pa.