Irish Jewelry and Its Romantic Symbols
Monday, June 29th, 2009Irish jewelry is a timeless reminder of the cultural traditions of the Irish people. Its symbols and meanings are powerful ways to connect with your family ancestry. If you are searching for the perfect Irish ring, pendant, or earrings, you may be curious about the romantic symbols that give these pieces their charm and depth.
We’ve compiled a list of the most common designs found on today’s exquisite, handcrafted pieces. You can browse our list and read about the stories and histories that lay behind the intricate spirals, knot work, and other ancient symbols of Ireland.
Familiarizing yourself with the art and history that is an important part of your heritage will allow for a richer appreciation of your Irish jewelry. You will enjoy learning about the spiritual significance of the designs, and the way they reflect thousands of years of Irish faith and loyalty.
As well, many symbols carry a romantic aura that comes from the Irish storytelling tradition. There are wonderful tales of love and devotion that are an integral part of today’s rings, earrings, and necklaces. Here is our guide to the romantic symbols of Irish jewelry:
Claddagh Symbols - The story of the first Claddagh ring is simple, but profoundly romantic. Richard Joyce worked as a fisherman in Moorish lands, far from his native Galway. During his travels, he was kidnapped by pirates and forced to work for a goldsmith. Joyce became a skilled craftsman, crafting jewelry out of precious metals. During his slavery, he never forgot his one true love, Margaret, who also waited for him to return.
He crafted a special ring in her honor, which features two tiny hands, gently holding onto a crowned heart. These symbols were meant to illustrate his love and his continued loyalty to her. When Joyce was freed, years after being kidnapped, he returned to Galway, Ireland, and reunited with Margaret. She wore her special ring and remained together for the rest of their lives.
Interlace - During the sixth century, the master artisans of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales created a new art movement, that relied on the use of symbols such as Interlace. The Insular Art movement gave rise to many powerful works of art, and it showcased the unparalleled skill of metal work created by Irish masters.
Interlace is delicate knot work that appears in many forms of Celtic art. It can be found on High and Celtic crosses in Irish churchyards. It can also be found in historical treasures such as the Book of Kells, an illuminated text that depicts stories from the gospel. On today’s jewelry designs, interlace is often found in the form of Trinity Knots. The distinctive, trefoil design of a traditional Trinity Knot is meant to represent the Holy Trinity, and it is also a symbol of faithfulness and love everlasting.
Spirals - The gentle, curving whorls that adorn today’s Irish jewelry designs are a symbol of the physical and spiritual journey through existence. They are meant to represent a sense of balance that is universal and eternal. The spiral radiates outward from the center, just as we radiate out to the world around us, from our own spiritual center.
Whorls are symbols of life force and of the many phases of a human being’s journey through life. Each new circle represents a new step on the quest towards spiritual fulfillment and peace. Whorls that feature clockwise turns are believed to be remnants of Pagan Sun worship. Spirals that feature a counter clockwise direction were once thought to be to a part of Pagan magical rituals.
Shield/Warrior Symbols - The most famous examples of Celtic shield symbols are found on the Irish Ardagh Chalice. These symbols are meant to be expressions of protection and strength. The Ardagh Chalice featured the same shield symbols you will find on today’s Irish wedding rings and other pieces.
Today, the Ardagh Chalice is one of the finest examples of 8th century metal work in the world. Choosing warrior/shield symbols for your own Irish jewelry will reflect the brave, proud spirit of the Irish Warriors of that time period.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this look into the symbols of Ireland, with their romantic meanings and their timeless appeal. Whatever you choose, you can be sure there are thousands of years of cultural tradition in the symbols found on your jewelry design.
|
Leigh Maher researches and writes about Celtic jewelry, and specialises in Celtic wedding rings, engagement rings and bridal jewelry. Click here for more information about Irish wedding rings. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leigh_Maher |
