Sterling Silver Appraisal

We recently prepared a detailed estate contents report for a local client, which included a monumental sterling silver appraisal object. One of the largest and most elaborate pieces of sterling silver we have ever had the pleasure to work with, this oversize masterpiece was crafted in a highly elaborate Rococo manner by well known Israeli silversmith Hazorfim.

Large Hazorfim (Israel) sterling silver 8-branch candelabrum, of elaborate Rococo design, with central fluted column and footed circular base, approx. 36¼” tall, hallmarked

Sterling Silver Appraisal - Origins & Founding (1952)

Hazorfim’s journey began in 1949 when Yosef Merdinger, an immigrant silversmith, arrived in Israel with little more than his toolbox and a profound respect for traditional silversmithing. In 1952, he joined forces with childhood friends Wilhelm Kerner and Michael Steinmetz, fellow craftsmen from their hometown of Chernivitz (Czernowitz), Romania. Together, they opened a humble workshop—initially in a kitchen—dedicated to reviving hand‑crafted, pure silver Judaica, drawing inspiration from classic European designs.

As the company's reputation grew, it relocated to a modest Tel Aviv facility. There, Hazorfim brought together highly skilled artisans—silversmiths, sculptors, and chasers—who shared a passion for precision, artistry, and preserving an ancient craft with professionalism and love.

Growth, Legacy & Brand Identity

Over decades, Hazorfim evolved from a small workshop into one of the largest silversmith operations in the world. In 1994, the company moved to Kfar Daniel, expanding from about 20 artisans to employing over 200 people across its production and retail network.

Hazorfim became synonymous with sterling‑silver Judaica and decorative silverware, regularly designing around 300 new pieces annually in categories ranging from ritual objects to luxury home décor. Their creations—marked with the “925” sterling seal and the Hazorfim quality signature—embody a blend of timeless craftsmanship and modern beauty.

The Next Generation: Yakov & Design Evolution

Yosef’s son, Yakov Merdinger, grew up amid the Hazorfim workshop. Starting at age eight, he learned the craft first-hand and by thirteen was independently designing pieces that would become iconic designs for the market.

Yakov’s work features a sophisticated interplay of tradition and modernity—ranging from Baroque-inspired ornamentation to minimalist forms. His pieces often integrate spiritual themes, Jewish symbolism, and unique silversmith techniques. He is recognized as a world-renowned silversmith and artist, with private collectors and institutions worldwide acquiring his limited-edition works

Notable Signature Creations by Yakov Merdinger

The Mitzvot Wagon (2022)

An extraordinary sculptural piece: a Victorian-style wagon containing nearly 100 gold-plated silver Judaica items—candlesticks, kiddush cup, menorah, Havdalah set—each hidden or revealed via layers of guilloché enamel that tell a story of Jewish resilience and clandestine observance

The Clarinet of Mitzvot (2020)

A striking sterling silver clarinet, plated with gold and embedded with gemstones. When disassembled, its components reveal six concealed ritual objects (menorah, kiddush cup, etc.), beautifully combining musical form with spiritual function

Wine Fountain – Bereshit Collection (2017)

A minimalist, elegant silver wine fountain featuring engraved biblical verses from Genesis. Gold plating and clean lines elevate the ritual of pouring wine into an act of spiritual reflection and artistic expression

These pieces exemplify Merdinger’s mastery—not only of silversmithing techniques but also sculptural storytelling that elevates Judaica into fine art.

Legacy Collection & Craftsmanship Heritage

In celebration of Hazorfim’s 70th anniversary, the “Legacy” collection was launched. It features timeless, classic designs—many inspired by Jewish communities from around the world—meticulously handcrafted in limited numbers. Each is signed and numbered by Yakov, serving as a personal heirloom for generations

This collection preserves not just designs, but the spirit, heritage, and artistry of Hazorfim’s long history—bridging tradition with creativity.

Global Reach, Prestige & Markets

Hazorfim exported its artistry worldwide—its creations have gifted or graced homes of world leaders such as US Presidents Bush and Reagan, King Hussein of Jordan, and Russian Prime Minister (now President) Vladimir Putin

One notable instance of their international reach: at a Milan exhibition, Hazorfim sold €500,000 of silver Judaica—including €200,000 in orders from buyers in Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Syria — demonstrating cross-cultural appeal despite the religious character of the pieces.

Today’s Hazorfim: Craft, Commerce & Culture

As of now, Hazorfim remains a leader in silver craftsmanship—combining artistic integrity, large-scale production, and global branding. The company maintains a network of stores, a workshop, and a design studio, continuing to produce ceremonial Jewish art that resonates with both tradition and contemporary design sensibilities.

Pieces like Menorahs, candlesticks, Kiddush sets, and ceremonial objects are programmatically handcrafted, stamped, polished, and finished to preserve lasting quality and elegance.

Summary Reflection

From a kitchen in Tel Aviv to global prominence, Hazorfim’s story is one of revival, family legacy, craftsmanship, and spiritual artistry. Yosef Merdinger’s vision, carried on by his son Yakov, transformed Hazorfim from a small workshop into both a commercial success and a custodian of silversmithing heritage. Their works—ranging from the deeply symbolic Mitzvot Wagon to timeless Judaica—embody a union of innovation with sacramental tradition.

Hazorfim continues to shape the world of Judaica, offering both collectors and communities pieces that are not only functional ritual objects but also artful expressions of identity, spirituality, and generational legacy.