Israel: Raz Akta, One of the Only Yemeni Jewelry Designers in the World

Raz Akta

Transmitting Yemeni Jewish culture through jewelry was the goal of Raz Akta, 23 years old, born and raised in Israel, of Yemeni and Romanian descent. Raz welcomes us into his workshop, which also his bedroom in his grandparents' house in Rehovot. It is in this cherished space that Raz passionately creates ancient Yemeni jewelry, adding his modern touch. With his sister, also a jeweler, and his renowned artist mother, Raz continues the family traditions and seeks to expand his influence worldwide: his jewelry is sold across the globe.

"It is crucial for me to preserve this tradition and convey the richness and beauty of Yemeni culture through my creations. Previously, no one in my family had delved into our origins; it was even something we instinctively hid. A few years ago, my mother started to explore her roots and research the Jewish community of Yemen. For her birthday two years ago, I accompanied her to an antique store because she wanted to buy a Yemeni necklace; at the time, I had no idea what it represented, but as soon as I saw one, I immediately knew I had found my calling. It was a real revelation, and I remember telling my mother right there that I wanted to make it my profession," recalls Raz, his eyes filled with tears.

This strong attraction to Yemeni culture has never left him. Quickly, the young man realized that he was destined to carry on this nearly forgotten art form. After months of research, he met the last master jeweler willing to teach him the basics of creating ancient jewelry – a tradition historically passed down only from father to son.

"For a year, I took lessons with a teacher in Rosh HaAyin once a week for three hours; it was exceptional! It was an amazing experience that also helped me grow and immerse myself in my family's past. After each lesson, my teacher and I would even have a Yemeni soup together. At the same time, I also conducted research to educate myself on the subject because I wanted to learn everything about these ancestral traditions. I continue to learn every day, and I pour all my knowledge into each piece of jewelry," explains Raz.

Raz has deeply immersed himself in the history of the Jews of Yemen and has refined his skills in this meticulous craft, which now brings him balance, satisfaction, and a sense of belonging.

Jewelry with Strong Symbolism

Raz creates all kinds of handmade jewelry, and it usually takes him between a few hours and a month and a half to create these wonders inspired by the East. Imprinted with the rich traditions of tribal Yemen, his "Galbi" collection, for example, embodies protection, healing, and a profound sense of connection. The triangular Galbi earrings, adorned with Aqiq (carnelian) stones, promote emotional balance, and their triangular design offers protection against negative energies. The Galbi rings, combining Aqiq and Jeza (onyx) stones, symbolize unity and spiritual defense. These original pieces create a powerful fusion of strength, healing, and connection through the ages. Each piece of jewelry carries symbolism and meaning tied to the past.

"Back in the day, Yemeni jewelry always had a meaning and a purpose; they were not just jewelry. They were designed to protect the wearer, heal from illness, ward off the evil eye, help with fertility, and even aid in financial prosperity (parnassa). If someone had a problem or felt threatened, they would visit a jeweler and purchase a piece of jewelry specially designed for them. For example, in the necklace with a small box resembling a mezuzah, some would write blessings for protection; the shape of the mezuzah preserved the purity of the jewelry," Raz explains.

"Today, I draw on all these elements and symbols and incorporate them into my own jewelry. I adapt them to the modern period, while maintaining the Yemeni tradition. Ancient Yemeni jewelry is generally very heavy to wear, so I lighten them by creating pieces that can be easily worn every day, as well as more elaborate creations for special occasions," continues the young man as he shows his latest piece.

In general, his clients immediately recognize the link between his jewelry and the ancient culture of Yemen. Raz's jewelry sometimes reminds them of their own origins, and that's exactly what he aims to convey through his craftsmanship.

"My goal is to highlight tradition and inspire people from different cultures around the world. My dream is for them to be drawn to our beautiful culture and connect with their own roots, no matter what they are. I hope that through my art, they can find the path that links them to their culture," he says.

A Hidden Culture

A true enthusiast of ancient stories and tales, Raz has been immersed in Yemeni culture since he was a child. He constantly questioned his grandparents about the traditions and the lives of Jews in Yemen. They shared with him their experiences and childhood in Israel in the Yemeni community, as well as the racism and the difficulties they faced integrating with other communities.

"When my grandparents arrived in Israel, life was not easy for them. They faced rejection, had no access to education, and were seen as uneducated, second-class people. At home, we always somewhat hid our connection to this culture. Life has now given me the chance to embrace my origins and act to bring this culture to light with jewelry that is timeless and passed down from generation to generation," says Raz. "My grandparents are overjoyed because my sister, my mother, and I support each other, and we work hard to promote Yemeni culture. It is a great pride for them."

Raz’s clientele is made up of people from all backgrounds: from Israel, the United Arab Emirates, France, the United States, and Hungary. "Every person who wants a piece of jewelry with symbolic meaning turns to me. There are also many Yemeni Jews for whom it evokes nostalgia for the past, as well as people with no connection to this culture who are interested in it. I also receive many custom orders. These are pieces that you won’t find anywhere else; they are truly unique and special. There are fewer than ten Yemeni jewelry stores in the world. It's a unique concept," asserts Raz.

"If you look at history, Yemeni Jews lived in Jerusalem before their arrival in Yemen and waited 2,000 years before returning to Israel. The Jewish culture in Israel is cosmopolitan, composed of, among others, Moroccan, Yemeni, Tunisian, Iraqi, and Ashkenazi cultures. It is a diverse culture, and that’s what makes the country beautiful. The younger Yemeni generation is more interested in their roots because they have fewer prejudices, but my parents’ generation, for example, is often ashamed of it," laments the young man.

A Successful First Exhibition

In September and October of last year, Raz exhibited his creations with his mother and sister at Beit Haomanim in Tel Aviv. The exhibition, titled "Um Subiyan" ("Mother of Spirits" in Yemeni), organized by Ofra Seri, was a great success. It introduced visitors to the magical and traditional world of Yemeni Jews and the way it has shaped their cultural, traditional, and ceremonial practices over time.

"Throughout history, people have turned to spirits, amulets, and incantations to give meaning to the unknown. These beliefs are not limited to Jewish culture; they have appeared in all societies around the world. However, their deep historical roots give them an important place in the study of culture and human consciousness. Today, these beliefs continue to influence how people face challenges, with the power of self-persuasion often helping individuals feel more secure and in control, whether or not the practices themselves have a tangible effect. Our exhibition showcased spirits and ghosts in Yemen through the jewelry of my sister, myself, and my mother’s paintings," explains Raz.

The young man affirms that he plans to exhibit soon at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. "I want to reach as many people as possible so they understand that this culture is truly an integral part of Israeli culture and to break down stereotypes," Raz concluded.

Caroline Haïat