The origins of the Celts dates back to prehistoric times when they
emerged as a group of loosely knit tribes with a common culture and
language.
Celtic settlements stretched from Turkey and the Balkans right across
Western Europe. But it was the rise of the Roman Empire that would
expose the lack of cohesion between the various Celtic tribes and would
lead to them being overrun, expelled from their territories and being
pushed back to the western fringes of the continent.
Although the ancient Celts flourished across Europe, it is in Ireland where their traditions have been most preserved.
One aspect of this culture that still survives today is the artwork and
this is most commonly seen in jewellery such as celtic wedding rings.
Their artwork was believed to be very symbolic often being based on
nature using images of birds and animals and fish. The Celts believed
firmly in the interconnectedness of all life and produced the familiar
Celtic Knots, which are interlaced patterns with no beginning and no
end.
Although perhaps the true significance of these patterns has been lost
over the millennia, Celtic designs remain increasingly popular in our
modern world.
The Claddagh is a traditional symbol of love and friendship and is
thought to have originated from Claddagh in Galway as far back as the
16th century since when has been worn by many as a wedding ring and as
a symbol of love.
The design of the Claddagh consists of a heart as a symbol of love, a
crown as a symbol of fidelity or loyalty and the hands depicted
friendship. Tradition states that if you are spoken to you should wear
the Claddagh on your left hand facing inward but if you are unattached
it should be worn facing outward on the right hand.
Celtic crosses, which predate Christianity, can symbolize the four
quarters of the earth and or the four elements – earth wind and fire.
They are equal armed crosses which are enclosed or backed by a circle.
Following the introduction of Christianity, it became more common to
see Celtic Crosses on top of a matching pedestal, which gave it a more
elongated look. Celtic crosses are often worn as jewellery such as
rings or on chains around the neck.
Geometric designs have always feature prominently in Celtic artwork
with spirals, chevrons, scrolls and knot work. Many of these patterns
can be seen decorating stone carvings or ancient manuscripts and
religious books.
The Celtic spirals are very symbolic with the single spiral generally thought to signify growth expansion and cosmic energy.
The dual centred spiral found often on stone carvings signifies duality
and nature and is associated with motifs from other cultures such as
the Ying Yang symbol.
Celtic knot work designs remain popular today and can vary from single
elegant knot patterns to complex intricate interlaced patterns.
Although the symbolism of celtic designs may have been lost, many of
the designs remain popular today and will often be seen used in the
design of jewellery and in particular Celtic Wedding rings.
Written by John Lewis of Love2Have who specialise in traditional gold
celtic wedding
rings handcrafted in the UK.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
