The silver kiddush cup is a common item you will see in many Jewish homes. It is often a gift for a wedding, bar mitzvah or holiday and is considered a luxury piece to have on your Shabbat table. The silver cup is usually engraved with the family name, words of blessing to God and symbols such as stars of David, lions and vines that are symbolic of the Jewish people throughout history. Gold is also a common material used to make kiddush cups and can be even more luxurious than silver.
The inscriptions are typically engraved in Hebrew but they can be done in English as well. The cup can also be engraved with a person’s initials or a date of special significance. Other popular designs include architectural scenes such as a cityscape or a synagogue and other religious items like menorahs and shofars. The engraved items are often done in an artful way and the result is a beautiful piece that will enhance your Shabbat and holiday table.
Silver is a metal that is highly durable and will not easily tarnish or scratch. When properly cared for, a silver cup can last for generations. Unlike porcelain or pewter, silver is also hypoallergenic and will not cause allergies or discomfort to those who are sensitive to chemicals. The silver cups can be cleaned with a silver polishing cloth or with mild dish soap and water to keep them shiny and looking new. The cups should never be placed in the dishwasher as the harsh chemical process can cause the silver to dull or discolor. They should be hand washed after each use and allowed to dry completely before storing to avoid any tarnishing or corrosion.
A silver kiddush cup is the perfect addition to any home. It will enhance the look of your table and will be a great conversation starter when guests come over. It is a very unique and meaningful gift for any occasion whether it is a wedding, anniversary, bar mitzvah or holiday. The cup is a beautiful way to commemorate a significant event and will be appreciated and cherished for years to come.
Yair Emanuel is the master of modern Judaica design and his nickel kiddush cup is no exception. The silver is hammered and adorned with colorful bands at the bottom that add a unique touch to your Shabbat or holiday table. The cup is a beautiful mix of modern and traditional, making it the perfect gift for any Jewish occasion.
The Jewish tradition is to wash a silver cup before using it for Kiddush on the Sabbath or holiday. This is to ensure that there are no residual flavors from food in the cup that may invalidate the Kiddush blessing made over the wine. It is recommended that you always wash your silver Kiddush cups by hand, instead of putting them in the dishwasher. The silver Kiddush cup should also be kept away from any non-kosher liquids or foods that could stain it. The most important thing is to have a beautiful and special cup that you will enjoy using every time you celebrate with friends and family.