For both Christians and Jews, this is one of the most important times of year, the season of celebrating, respectively, Easter and Passover—holidays that have unique stories yet a commonality of special events, family meals, and symbolic jewelry.
Passover, also called Pesach, commemorates the exodus of Israelites from Egypt and is centered on the seder meal. Easter is associated with the rebirth of Christ, springtime renewal, and—for some reason that probably only greeting-card companies understand—rabbits, eggs, and marshmallow chicks.
Yes, the Easter Bunny and eggs are pagan symbols, but they represent spring and rebirth, so including those shapes in an otherwise religious holiday is perfectly fine. With gemstones often having an oval or round shape—not unlike an egg—jewelry can be another way to celebrate Easter.
While some retail observers say inflation related to food costs may affect spending for Easter (April 9 this year) and Passover (April 5–13), the National Retail Federation (NRF) is feeling bullish. In its Easter-spending predictions released last month, the NRF said its surveys show shoppers may spend a record $24 billion on the holiday in 2023—on such items as candy, gifts, flowers, food, and decorations—up from $20.8 billion last year.
If you’re looking for a way to bring a bit of Passover or Easter into your jewelry, here are some pieces that bring forth thoughts of eggs, bunnies, or Passover food, and even a feeling of spring.
Top: Hop to it and get Easter-ready with these conversation-starting Yvonne Léon bunny-shape stud earrings ($1,925), with diamonds and ruby mounted on yellow gold. (Photo courtesy of Yvonne Léon)
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