 The
jewelry store "Ophir" was founded in 1956 by Shula and Avraham Lor on 38,
Jaffa Road in the center of Jerusalem. It is considered one of the most unusual places
for handcrafted jewelry and antiques in Jerusalem. The store's name derives from the
biblical city which supplied some of King Solomon's treasures.
The store is located in an old stone building in the city center, and is designed as
a workshop with authentic wooden art-nouveau cabinets. The old wooden cabinets are
filled with a large variety of gold and silver hand crafted rings, brooches, earrings,
necklaces and pendants – many set with precious stones. In addition, you can find archeological
items - ancient coins and religious objects. "Ophir" is the second jewelry
store owned by the Lor dynasty. The first was a small shop founded by Yosef Lor in
the center of Jerusalem – 5, Ben Yehuda Street. In 1996 the shop was renovated, after
being in business for over seventy years.
The Artist
 Avraham
Lor has inherited the love for jewelry from his father, Yosef, one of the first students
of Jerusalem’s famous Art School, Bezalel. Avraham Lor started his artistic way making
modern sculptural designs from copper, brass and alpaca. His works were purchased by
many of the leading families of Jerusalem. The reputation of the young, talented artist
spread quickly and today, after 47 years of work, "Ophir Jewelry" headed
by Avraham has become a local institution. Avraham's passion for jewels was naturally
passed on to his son, Sefi. As soon as Sefi was discharged from military service, he
started learning jewelry craftsmanship and joined the family business.
Original Designs
The items in "Ophir"'s ever-changing repertoire of designs are unique
creations, combining gold and silver with precious stones. The styles range from
modern to antique, and are most famous for original pieces that draw on traditions
such as Victorian with art-deco, Celtic with Art Nouveau, and more. Another special
artistic line is of silver or gold jewels set with ancient coins of different eras,
all the way from the Persian era, through the 2nd temple to the Crusaders.
The Collection
"Ophir" is also famed for its large collection of genuine old jewelry,
mainly from the years 1850-1930, each item carefully chosen for its workmanship and
design. In addition you can find archeological items, relicts from the amazing history
of the Jewish people and the land of Israel. Among the items you can find clay candles,
pots, Roman glass and bronze objects, dated by archeologists from the 14th century
BC to the 12th century AD.
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