| All throughout the world, it can be said that the | | | | The Celtic cross |
| items a group of people create reflect their | | | | This type of jewelry is one of the most popular, |
| culture. This is because different cultures express | | | | which according to legend was first made by St. |
| or manifest their beliefs and their perspectives in | | | | Patrick who drew a circle over a Latin cross. |
| a number of ways, including the way they make | | | | Given its popularity, different meanings have been |
| items such as jewelry. One example of this is the | | | | attached to the cross. The circle is believed by |
| way the Chinese prefer using jade for jewelry, as | | | | some to symbolize eternity and God?s endless |
| it is their belief that jade brings good luck and | | | | love for man, while others believe that it |
| fortune. Another example is the influence of | | | | represents a halo emanating from Jesus Christ. |
| Catholic tradition on certain cultural items such as | | | | For some people, the four arms of the cross |
| necklaces adorned with the crucifix. For the Celts | | | | represent the four elements, while others believe |
| this is very true, as the jewelry they make and | | | | that they represent human existence of mind, |
| wear also reflects a rich Catholic tradition. Among | | | | body, soul and heart. |
| the most common Celtic jewelry that the Irish | | | | Celtic knots |
| wear, the more notable include Claddagh rings, the | | | | The designs of this kind of jewelry are very |
| Celtic cross and Celtic knot jewelry, which the | | | | intricate and different meanings have also been |
| Irish have worn throughout their history. | | | | attached to them. One of these is that the |
| Claddagh rings | | | | intricate loops are believed to keep away evil |
| These rings originated from the town of | | | | spirits and others also believe that the loops |
| Claddagh, hence its name. These rings are usually | | | | represent the interconnectedness of all people. |
| designed with a heart, which symbolizes love, | | | | The type of jewelry that a group of people |
| topped by a crown that is held by two hands, | | | | makes can reflect their culture. This is especially |
| representing loyalty and friendship respectively. | | | | true among the Irish, as some of the more |
| This ring is a very popular gift, especially between | | | | popular Celtic jewelry they wear not only reflects |
| friends, and when it is given, the giver usually | | | | their culture and beliefs but also serves as good |
| says the phrase ?Let love and friendship reign.? | | | | reminders of the rich culture and history of the |
| These rings have also become the preferred | | | | Celts. |
| choice for wedding rings among the Irish. | | | | |