It’s simple. Ireland is a nation of storytellers and each piece of jewelry tells a story. Whether it’s a myth, legend or simply the story of a promise; whether it’s an indication of love or a proud way to display a family crest – it’s all about stories.
Here are some of the ways that Irish and Celtic jewelry is truly like no other. There is quite simply nothing else like it from the classic to the contemporary to the traditional to the bold.
Here are 6 ways that Irish and Celtic jewelry stands out from the rest:
Classic Claddagh
No mention of Irish or Celtic jewelry could go without a reference to the classic, timeless Claddagh ring. This symbol is now famous worldwide, worn by stars, seen in films and is gifted from baptisms to First Holy Communions to engagements, weddings and anniversaries. This beautiful and famous symbol features a heart for love, hands for friendship and a crown for loyalty. It can be worn many ways – but mostly with pride!
Celebrating the Celts
The Ardagh Chalice is one of Ireland’s foremost treasures and it was discovered in 1868 by two men digging a ring fort in Ardagh, Co. Limerick, Ireland. The chalice is the finest example of eighth century metalwork ever to be discovered. The gold filigree band on the Chalice, with its shield decorations, inspired the creation of the Celtic Warrior Jewelry Collection – a magnificent collection and celebration of true Irish craftsmanship.
The Romance of Words
In addition to being a nation of storytellers, the Irish language is one of the most romantic in use today. There are phrases like ‘Mo Anam Cara’ which translates as ‘My Soul Mate’; or ‘Gra Geal mo Chroi’ which translates as ‘Love of my heart’. These can be engraved on to an Irish piece of jewelry and included in the Celtic pattern incorporated in to the design. There’s nothing more beautiful than receiving a piece of jewelry inscribed with ‘Gra Go Deo’ – Love Forever. Irish at its best.
Faith and Inspiration
Another reason that Celtic and Irish jewelry is so very inspirational is that it can incorporate the most beautiful and evocative patterns and designs such as the Trinity knot – which has a never ending pattern. There’s also the opportunity to include the Ogham script, which is an ancient Irish alphabet.
History of Ireland
It sounds hard to believe but the history of Ireland can be synopsized and included in even the most delicate pieces of jewelry from rings to link bracelets to bangles, pendants and Celtic crosses. There are symbols depicting the entire history of the country from Round Towers to Vikings, from the Irish Flag to the Famine, from Partition to the Battle of the Boyne.
Family Name Coat of Arms
The Coat of Arms arose in about the 12th century, around the time of the Crusades. A knight dressed in armor from head to foot, could not be recognized by friend or enemy, so a new method of identification became necessary. This resulted in special markings being painted on the knight's shield, as it was the largest piece of equipment the knight had, and as the shield was easily seen people could see who was who at a glance. This tradition is also now celebrated in a collection of Irish jewelry which can be personalized with your own Irish family name and coat of arms.
Irish jewelry is inspirational – every piece tells a story. What’s yours?