Precious Stones

Precious Stones
Official Award Medal, 5743-1983

The historic relationship of the people of Israel with precious stones, their value and symbolism goes back to the breastplate of the High Priest described in the Bible. The twelve precious stones described by their original Hebrew names are but a few among the many kinds of precious stones existing at the present time. The world of precious stones is rich and has a wide range of beauty and color. During the last years, Israel advanced and strengthened its position as a producer and supplier of precious stones in the whole world. The precious stones industry in Israel is considered the leading one in the world due to its technological development and the sophistication of the polishing equipment being used. Many members of the Israeli Precious Stones and Diamonds Exchange are influenced by the marketing outlook of this industry and consider this export branch of great importance to the Israeli economy.

Obverse: Emblem of the International Precious Stones Congress, the words in Hebrew and in English, "The International Precious Stones Congress, Israel 1983". On the border the words: "lsrael Emerald Cutters Association."

Reverse: The twelve precious stones on the High Priest's breastplate and their Hebrew names: Ruby, Topas, Beryl, Turquoise, Sapphire, Diamond, Opal, Agate, Amethyst, Emerald, Onyx, Jasper. On the border, the verse in English: "... And thou shalt make the breatplate of judgement with cunning work... and thou shalt set in it settings of stones..."(Exodus 28:15).

Edge: The Corporation emblem and its initials: IGCMC serial number, silver content, and the words: "Union Bank of Israel".

Designer: Zeev Lipman

Mint: The Government Mint, Jerusalem