Celtic jewelry like the
Celts themselves has a rich history and a proud tradition. Immensely
beautiful with intricate Celtic symbols and delicate designs, Celtic
cross jewelry, Celtic knot jewelry, and beautiful Claddaugh rings have
been admired and desired for thousands of years. Celtic Cross Jewelry
One of the most enduring, and coveted "gifts" of Celtic
culture is jewelry featuring the Celtic Cross. According to Irish
legend, St. Patrick created the first Celtic cross by drawing a circle
over a Latin cross. For an Irish Catholic, the circle in the Celtic
cross may be a symbol of eternity and the endlessness of God's love.
It can even represent a halo emanating from Christ. Some say the four
"arms" of the Celtic Cross represent the elements (fire,
earth, air, and water).
Others believe the cross denotes the four
directions of the compass, and still others feel it is a
representation of human existence - mind, body, soul and heart. Celtic
Knots The most distinguishing characteristic of Celtic knots is their
intricate patterns and design?and the debate as to the meaning of
those designs. While it is unquestionable that many of the ancient
designs had some significance, those meanings changed from tribe to
tribe and location to location. Many believe that the intricate
looping in knots was a way to keep out evil spirits. It is also
generally accepted that the looping Celtic knot design denotes
eternity and interconnectedness. Still, there is no definitive guide
as to the meaning of Celtic knots which, adds, perhaps to their
mystery and appeal. Claddagh Rings Named for the town of Claddagh near
Galway in which they are said to have originated, Claddagh rings are
beloved Celtic symbols of Irish culture and sentiment. Unlike other
Celtic symbols, the meaning behind the Claddagh ring is
well-documented. The Claddagh design has a heart (symbolizing love)
topped by a crown (symbolizing loyalty) held in two hands (signifying
friendship). The phrase that is usually associated with the giving of
a Claddagh ring is "Let love and friendship reign." It's not
surprise that the Claddagh is a popular marriage band. In Celtic
times, it was worn on the right hand with the heart turned outward to
show that the wearer is unattached or with the heart turned inward to
show he/she was "spoken for." If the Claddagh ring is worn
on the left hand with the heart turned inward, it shows that two loves
have been joined in marriage. Celtic Then and Now At one time, Celtic
people could be found throughout Eastern and Central Europe, as well
as in the British Isles, where the earliest examples of Celtic jewelry
originate. The emergence of the powerful Roman Empire encroached on
the lifestyle, traditions, and homeland of the Celts who were forced
to move to abandon their homes and relocate in remote areas in
Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Cornwall in southern England. Despite
their hardships at the hands of the Romans, Celts endured, thrived?and
continued to produce Celtic jewelry. The tradition has remained strong
for centuries. Irish Celtic jewelry and Scottish Celtic jewelry have
enjoyed a huge resurgence in their homelands and with
"ex-pats" around the world, as people seek to rediscover and
celebrate their cultural traditions.
About the author: The Authors of the above
Article, Sam and Tami Serio have been passionately involved with
Jewelry and Gemstones for over fifteen-years. You are cordially
invited to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com
for a wealth of information about the fascinating world of Jewelry and
Gemstones. Together they also shelter 20 abandoned and abused dogs
& cats. A portion of their profits goes to the care and feeding of
the animals.