In the wake of tragedy, an Israeli jeweler has embarked on a mission to spread joy among IDF soldiers.

The story begins with Alon Mesika whose son Adir was killed at the age of 23 during the Nova music festival attack on October 7. Alon’s other son, Or, suggested donating an engagement ring to an IDF soldier to honor his brother who saved seven people.

As a veteran jeweler with three decades of experience in Ramat Gan’s diamond exchange, Alon took to Facebook with a simple message: “The first soldier who contacts me will receive an engagement ring as a gift.”

Within 4 hour an IDF soldier arrived at his home visibly moved, received a ring, and proposed to his partner that very day.

As word spread, more soldiers reached out, which Alon humbly obliged in honor of his heroic son. This set in motion what would become known as the “Adir’s Diamonds” project.

“It’s not connected to the progress of the war or its end or anything like that. Whenever you want, come, get a ring” he told N12 News. “I have received so many invitations to weddings. I have received so many updates in which the soldiers tell me that it was the ‘Adir’s Diamonds’ project that pushed me to pop the question.”

As the project has expanded dramatically, so too has his investment. With rings valued between 5,000 and 8,000 NIS (about $1,300 to $2,100) each, the financial commitment is substantial. However for Alon, the project’s true value lies in something money can’t buy.

“Is there anything more meaningful? Is there anything more immortalizing?” Every hug I receive from a soldier feels like a hug from Adir. Yes, that’s the truth. Adir will never be able to build a home in Israel, but there will be a new generation here thanks to him.”