Hannah Small Star of David Necklace

On a boat full of Jews escaping persecution, somewhere along the Atlantic Ocean, Julia Chaika Schwartzbaum, was born into the world along this journey, eventually landing in Cuba.

In Havana, Julia and her family settled in a small Cuban Jewish community and as an adult, she started a family of her very own.  Julia, my grandmother, went on to marry my grandfather, Jaime and have two daughters: my mother, Ana and her younger sister, both born in Havana.  Once Castro came into power; Jews knew it was time to flee yet again - this time to the United States.

My grandparents set forth to America, with their two children in tow, my mom, 12 years old and her sister, just 6 years old. Subsequently, my father also made his own trek from Havana to the States, all by himself at just 16 years old.

Julia and Jaime both worked hard to provide and better their life. My grandfather even went to night high-school after sweeping floors in the factory.  He then attended college at the age of 82!  My grandparents had tremendous pride in their journey. Tremendous pride in being Jewish.  They passed that pride onto their children and four grandkids.  I feel their pride and think of their journey today more than ever!

When actress and Jewish activist Debra Messing commented on one of my posts with me wearing my vintage Star of David pendant passed down to me from my grandma Julia, I knew that was my sign to recreate it!  

I am very honored to have Debra wear and show her Jewish pride, with the very first Star of David charm made, based on my very own grandmother's pendant.

Am Yisrael Chai!

With each online purchase of the Small Hannah Star of David Pendant and/or Pendant with Cable Chain, a donation will be made to support the IDF of $180.