The Hebrew word chai means life or expressing a wish for health and longevity. The chai on this handsome necklace was formed with letters taken from an early 18th-century Italian Torah binder in the collection of New York's The Jewish Museum.

A Torah binder, from German Jewish culture, was customarily presented on the birth of a boy, and included his name, birth date and blessings. Each was different, but embraced the main themes of Torah, honoring one's parents, and a fruitful marriage under the chupah (wedding canopy). Often, the handmade binder was then donated to a synagogue and used to hold together the fabric wrapped Torah.

Like the original, this silver jewelry version is appropriate for men. Antiqued Silver on 20" Leather cord, pendant is 1/2" square.