Twelve stones, twelve tribes.
One tale that links the heavens and the earth
"And thou shalt set in it settings of stones, even four rows of stones: the first row shall be a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle: this shall be the first row. And the second row shall be an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond. And the third row a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst. And the fourth row a beryl, and an onyx, and a jasper: they shall be set in gold in their inclosings."
Exodus 28:17–20 (KJV)
No stone in it was chosen by chance. Each one represented a tribe, a trait, a way of life – and was an inseparable part of the connection between the individual, the people, and the divine
At the time the Torah was written, there were no images or precise definitions, so the identification of the stones of the Hoshen relies on names, colors, descriptions, and traditions — which led to disagreements among commentators and experts.
From the range of interpretations, I chose the identifications that seem to me the most accurate, based on ancient Jewish sources, modern gemological research, and my personal connection to the energy of each stone.
Here, you’ll find information, meaning, and a unique spiritual connection for each of the stones — and of course, jewelry lovingly handcrafted and inspired by them, one by one.(Link to the Hoshen Twelve Stones Collection)
Odem (Ruby / Red Spinel)
Represents the Tribe of Reuben. Appears in various shades of red and offers protection from danger. Reuben is associated with a passionate heart, spontaneity, and deep emotion. This stone enhances emotional expression, courage, and inner boldness.
Pitdah (Peridot / Yellow Topaz)
Represents the Tribe of Shimon. Typically yellow-green in color. Enhances abundance, strength, and prosperity. Shimon is a strong and assertive tribe, moving between justice and inner fire. The stone supports balance between inner power and emotional control.
Bareket (Emerald)
Represents the Tribe of Levi. One of the four most precious gemstones, deep green in color. Enhances healing, protection, and good fortune. The tribe of Levi is known for spiritual sensitivity, holiness, and devotion. This stone fosters deep healing, inner peace, and connection to higher purpose.
Nofech (Green Beryl / Red Garnet)
Represents the Tribe of Judah. Traditionally identified as a green stone, though some sources see it as red garnet or even turquoise. Judah symbolizes leadership, confidence, and responsibility. This stone enhances a positive presence, inner strength, and uplifting influence on others.
Yahalom (Clear Sapphire / Rock Crystal / Diamond)
Represents the Tribe of Zebulun. Often associated today with the diamond, but traditionally understood as a clear stone such as rock crystal. Zebulun is entrepreneurial, grounded, and holds both material and spiritual space. This stone symbolizes pure strength and unwavering resilience.
Sapir (Blue Sapphire / Lapis Lazuli)
Represents the Tribe of Issachar. Deep blue in color, it promotes healing and purity.
Issachar is a tribe of wisdom, insight, and devotion to study. The stone encourages clarity of thought, purity of intention, and inner calm.
Leshem ( Amber / Opal)
Represents the Tribe of Dan. Commonly identified with amber, but also linked by some to opal.
Dan represents sharp judgment, justice, and clarity of vision. This stone supports creative thinking, emotional awareness, and balance.
Shevo (Agate)
Represents the Tribe of Naphtali. A banded stone that promotes confidence and inner stability. Naphtali is described as “a deer let loose” – swift, joyful, and free. The stone balances inner lightness with emotional grounding.
Ahlamah (Amethyst)
Represents the Tribe of Gad. Purple in color, enhances intuition, calms the mind, and supports restful sleep. Gad is a brave and sharp warrior, yet spiritually grounded. This stone deepens intuition, spiritual strength, and transformation of fear into faith.
Tarshish (Blue Topaz / Chrysoberyl)
Represents the Tribe of Asher. Identified as either blue topaz or golden-green chrysoberyl.
Asher is a tribe of blessing, abundance, and inner harmony. The stone brings deep peace, hope, and optimism. (Some modern views suggest aventurine, but this is less supported in traditional sources.)
Shoham (Onyx)
Represents the Tribes of Joseph – Ephraim and Manasseh. Traditionally identified as onyx, with some alternative identification as lapis lazuli. Joseph embodies quiet strength, emotional wisdom, grace, and stability. This stone grounds inner power and connects to clear vision.
Yashfeh (Jasper)
Represents the Tribe of Benjamin. Found in red, green, or brown hues. Benjamin is described as gentle, powerful, and sacred. The stone nurtures high intuition, emotional expression, and the capacity to hold deep inner space.