| The Celts have a long history full of traditions and | | | | eternity and interconnectedness to its wearer. |
| rituals. An extension of these traditions that lives | | | | The lack of documentation on these designs |
| on today is Celtic jewelry. A reflection of their rich | | | | simply add to the mystery and widespread appeal |
| history and culture, Celtic jewelry make beautiful | | | | of these wonderful jewelry pieces. Claddagh rings |
| Celtic jewelry that usually consist of intricate Celtic | | | | are beloved Celtic symbols and its meaning is the |
| symbols and designs. Celtic rings, for example, | | | | well-documented. Claddagh designs consist of a |
| have very intricate patterns of knots, spirals, | | | | heart (representing love) and are topped by a |
| chevrons and scrolls with each carrying it's own | | | | crown (representing loyalty) which are both held |
| meaning. Such uniquely designed jewelry possess | | | | by two hands (representing friendship). It should |
| irresistable charm and appeal to both men and | | | | certainly be of no surprise that Claddagh rings |
| women of all cultures, not just the Irish. | | | | make popular engagement and wedding bands. |
| Well-made, authentic Celtic jewelry make perfect | | | | The symbolism and beauty of these rings have |
| gifts for anyone who loves jewelry. Many jewelry | | | | resulted in a growth of newlyweds-to-be buying |
| designs of the ancient Celts carry great | | | | these as wedding rings around the world. It is also |
| significance. We will explore the most popular | | | | known to be a great gift between good friends. |
| jewelry designs and the meanings behind them. | | | | Often, the gift is given along with the saying "Let |
| First, the Celtic spiral. The Celtic spiral represents | | | | love and friendship reign". How a Claddagh ring is |
| eternity. Spirals are a common Celtic symbol and | | | | worn carries deep significance as well. When the |
| any type of jewelry can have a spiral inscribed. | | | | ring is worn on the right hand with the heart |
| Next we have the Celtic cross, which came about | | | | facing outward, it shows that the wearer is |
| two centuries before the Christian cross. It is a | | | | unattached. If the heart is turned inward, it shows |
| popular piece of jewelry that is believed to | | | | that he or she is already attached. When the ring |
| increase knowledge, wisdom, and fortitude. | | | | is worn on the left hand with the heart turned |
| Another popular design used in Celtic jewelry are | | | | inward, it shows two loves joined in marriage. |
| Celtic knots. The intricacy of these designs make | | | | With the timeless elegance and history behind |
| them both fashionable and timeless jewelry works | | | | Celtic jewelry, it is certainly an excellent reason |
| of art. There is no definite information on the | | | | for anyone looking for jewelry to choose it over |
| actual meaning of looping Celtic knots but these | | | | traditional jewelry pieces for their loved one. |
| are believed to ward off evil spirits or bring | | | | |