Mizpah refers to watchtower, a place in the mountainous region of Gilead, Jordan. The mizpah coin expresses a commitment and offers the power of hope during time of struggle.
Biblical Reference
The Book of Genesis 31:49 refers to Mizpah: It was also called Mizpah, because he said, May the Lord keep watch between you and me when we are away from each other.
Covenant
Genesis records a covenant between Jacob and Laban marked by a memorial cairn of stones. This memorial, called Mizpah, symbolized their trust and also signified the boundary between them.
Mizpah Coin
The Mizpah coin tradition started 4,000 years ago. The Mizpah is also a prayer for someone to be watched over, like a watchtower guard who warns of danger.
Jewelry
Mizpah jewelry of the Victorian age depicted ivy as a symbol of loyalty, affection and overcoming of obstacles. Contemporary jewelry based on the Mizpah coin includes pewter, silver or white gold coin pendants or key tags. An inscription from Genesis 31:49 adorns the coin surface. The coin is made in two pieces, as if split in two. The two people wearing or carrying each half of the Mizpah coin share a promise of life-long friendship or devotion.
Sharing
Couples, friends and family members can give Mizpah jewelry for various occasions, such as a young boy or girl coming of age or people separated physically or by death. If two people are apart, each holder of the Mizpah coin piece can stay close in spirit.
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