Celtic jewelry is some of the most fashionable jewelry on the planet because of the uniqueness of Celtic designs, some of which are thousands of years old. Usually composed of gold, silver, platinum or bronze, you can find all sorts of Celtic rings, pendants, earrings, brooches, and other forms of Celtic jewelry ornamented with traditional Celtic symbols and designs. Ornamental knot patterns are especially typical of Celtic jewelry. (Scroll down for some stunning examples of Celtic knotwork in jewelry!)
Some of the most popular Celtic symbols you can find on Celtic jewelry design include Celtic knots and intricate interlacing knotwork, spirals, animals, Claddagh designs, and Celtic crosses.
The Celtic symbols you commonly find on Celtic jewelry provide it with special flair because they often have a specific meaning. For instance, Celtic jewelry motifs are often ornamented through Celtic knots, which are a number of connecting knots interwoven in a beginningless-endless pattern. The connected knotwork represents everlasting characteristics of hope, love, loyalty or friendship and you can find an endless variety of knotwork designs on rings, pendants, brooches, and earrings. Knotwork patterns are very popular Celtic designs for promise rings, friendship rings, engagement rings and wedding bands.
Animal motifs are also commonly found on many types of Celtic jewelry and are often taken to symbolize various magical-mystical occurrences or special characteristics associated with the animal.
One of the more popular forms of Celtic jewelry is the Celtic cross. While the true meaning of the Celtic cross is not known for sure, this particular symbol -- formed into jewelry -- honors the Celtic heritage.
Another popular form of Celtic jewelry is the Claddagh ring, whose design includes special symbols: a heart, pair of hands, cuffs and a crown. Each of these symbols refers to an occurrence in the life of Richard Joyce, who designed the famous ring in the 17th century as a token of thanks for his friends who helped him return home.
The story is that Richard Joyce was captured and sold into slavery, where he worked as a goldsmith and suffered for many years, but he was eventually allowed to return to his home town of Claddagh. After returning home, he decided to fashion a gold ring to show his appreciative thanks for those who helped him return and for those who waited for him. He gave his wife a ring and since that time it has become one of the most popular pieces of Celtic jewelry since it symbolizes endless friendship, love, loyalty and betrothal.
Tradition states that the Claddagh ring should be worn on your right hand with the heart facing outward if you are unmarried but if you are in love or married, you should wear the ring on your left hand with the heart facing inward. A Claddagh ring can be worn for decoration, as a friendship ring, promise ring, or wedding band.
There are so many different types of Celtic design patterns, and so many options for Celtic jewelry. The big thing to remember is that Celtic jewelry makes a unique and attractive gift for special occasions...
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