Vikings. This one word still resonates with people from all over the world and is synonymous with invasions, conflict, wars and unrest.

However, what is often not considered when looking at this period of history, is that the Vikings also had a very profound and permanent influence on culture in Ireland and throughout Europe.  

The Viking Collection from Rings from Ireland celebrates the influence of Viking culture in the design of jewelry and crafts in Ireland.

From the moment that the Vikings invaded Lambay Island in Dublin Bay back in 795, there would be hundreds of years of conflict to follow. The Norwegians and Danish plundered the wealth of monasteries and churches coming through the main ports to start the first large settlements in Ireland that would later become our towns and cities.

In 1014, High King of Ireland Brian Boru built a united army who defeated the Vikings in a major victory but by then they had already had a huge influence on the cultural life of Ireland, particularly in jewelry design.

There was a hugely significant find in Wood Quay near the River Liffey in Dublin, when a Viking settlement was the subject of archaeological excavations and over 30,000 unique items were logged. They are now housed at the National Museum of Ireland. Some of these pieces beautifully demonstrated the merging of Viking craftsmanship and Irish and Celtic design.  

Here are just two pieces from the Rings from Ireland Viking Collection that are inspired by the treasure trove at Wood Quay:

Viking Wide Bangle with Green Glass Stone
This Viking wide bangle will certainly be a conversation piece as the sterling silver used to make it has been oxidized to give a blackened appearance. It is influenced by the various artifacts that were found at the Viking site at Wood Quay. At its center is a vibrant green glass stone.


Viking Teardrop Pendant with Green Glass Stone
A striking green glass stone sits at the center of this beautiful Pendant. Looking more closely, you’ll see detailed ornamentation circling the stone and an interesting texture that was created by oxidizing the silver and granulating the surface.


Take a look at the rings, bangles, pendants, earrings and crosses from the Viking Collection and transport yourself back in time.