Celtic Jewelry
When one admires a beautiful piece of jewelry, a ring or a pendant, it's the intrinsic beauty of the piece that captures the attention. The experience is much like the experience one has when admiring a great painting or sculpture. The piece is not analyzed, it's simply enjoyed; the intricacy, the quality of the gems, the presentation all combine to provide visual enjoyment and awe. One who admires a piece of Celtic jewelry experiences similar feelings, but also something much more profound.
Celtic jewelry is not ostentatious, yet it is not plain. Often created from a single material, usually sterling silver, and often unadorned with gems, the presentation is dominated by a simple, yet intricately crafted design that is rich with Celtic symbolism. While one who admires such a piece of Celtic jewelry experiences enjoyment similar to that experienced while admiring any fine jewelry, he or she is also affected by the symbolism which causes one to feel a real but undefined connection with the past, a sense of wonder and awe. Some have described it as a magical feeling. They explain that by owning and wearing a piece of Celtic jewelry they feel that they have been automatically accepted into membership in a community that shares in the mysteries of the Celtic past.
One readily recognized Celtic creation is the Claddagh ring, with its symbol of a heart topped by a crown. The Claddagh ring symbol represents love and friendship. The heart is a symbol of love; the crown of loyalty. You needn't be Irish to wear one. It has become accepted by many other cultures, and is often chosen as a wedding ring to ensure a lasting and loving bond. After the marriage vows are completed, the bride and groom place their Claddagh rings on their left ring fingers with the heart facing inward to signify to others that they are married. Celtic knots are another popular and distinguishing Celtic symbol. It is thought that the intricate knot design represents eternity and the interconnectedness of all mankind.
Some believe that wearing jewelry with Celtic knots will ward off evil spirits. Second only to the Claddagh ring in recognition and popularity is the Celtic cross. Originally, the simple cross was a pagan symbol. With the advent of Christianity it took on new symbolism. Legend has it that the Celtic cross was created by St. Patrick himself by drawing a circle over a Latin cross. This Celtic cross symbol was worn by the Celts for over a century before the rest of Europe adopted the practice of wearing crosses. To Catholics, especially Irish Catholics, the cross is important spiritually. Some believe that the circle represents eternity and the limitlessness of God's love. Others believe, or perhaps hope, that wearing the symbol will increase their knowledge and wisdom.
The distinctive style of Celtic jewelry is not new to the world markets. The Celts have been manufacturing their unique jewelry and trading it all over Europe since as far back as 2000 BC. Celtic jewelry is a living representation of the rich history and culture of the Celtic people. Its manufacture is an ancient art. The jewelry's popularity has transcended all cultures, races, and nationalities in the Western world. People the world over acquire Celtic jewelry for its beauty and craftsmanship, but also to capture a little piece of its inherent art and magic.
If you have not yet become entranced by the magical lure of Celtic jewelry, then you haven't been truly introduced to it.
