Celtic jewelry offers amazing artistry and traditional symbols that evoke the past. By choosing a special pendant with Celtic features, you can honor the spirit of your ancestors. Celtic jewelry is versatile, and its details reflect the deep spiritual faith of the Celtic people. But how to choose? There are so many different types of Celtic pendants, each with their own particular meaning. We’ve compiled a quick list of the top five choices in Celtic jewelry pendants, so that you can have a look at the wide range of styles created by today’s artisans.
The tradition of Celtic jewelry designs stems from centuries ago, when the master metalworkers of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales created art treasures from precious metals. One example of fine craftsmanship from the sixteenth century is the Ardagh Chalice, which features warrior symbols and encrusted jewels. Made from silver and gold, the Chalice remains an influence on today’s craftsmen.
The Insular art period produced many stellar examples of Celtic metalwork, and it also relied on the deeper meanings found in the decorative spirals, interlace, and zoomorphic (animal) symbols found on the designs of the period. These symbols have been passed down to today’s artists, who use their timeless beauty to enhance Celtic pendants. By melding past and present, modern jewelry designs become evocative reminders of the rich cultural history of the Celts, but also utilize current tastes to create something completely new.
celtic pendant
Here is our list of the top five choices for Celtic pendants:
Celtic Cross Pendant – A true Celtic Cross is a ringed cross, often adorned with delicate interlace, or knot work. Celtic Crosses can be found in many churchyards of Ireland, and their symbols have evolved from Druidic times. The ring at the center of each Celtic Cross was thought to be a symbol of the sun, until Ireland converted to Christianity. Then, its meaning changed, and today it is believed to be a symbol of eternity. The four points of the Celtic Cross reference the four directions: east, west, north and south. Today’s Celtic Cross pendants combine many different facets of Celtic design, and often use more modern symbols, such as Claddagh crowned hearts, to enhance their beauty. As well, these necklaces are often inlaid with diamonds, emeralds, or birthstones, to give them color and visual interest. The intricate interlace that is so common in Irish art, such as the Book of Kells, can also be found on Celtic Cross pendants, as a symbol of the interconnectedness of all things. This knot work gives a rich, dimensional look to the design.
Trinity Knot Pendants – A Celtic Trinity knot is a three-pointed, or trefoil, design, with deep religious significance. The three points of the Trinity Knot represent the Father, the Son, and The Holy Spirit. The sacred nature of the Holy Trinity is honored in every Trinity Knot pendant, and the knot itself is a potent symbol of Christianity. Today’s Trinity knot necklaces are crafted from yellow or white gold, and even the more affordable silver. They can feature other design elements, such as central stones. The emerald is a popular choice, since its deep green color is synonymous with the Emerald Isle. As well, Trinity knots can be features alongside other Celtic symbols, such as knot work or Claddagh symbols.
Claddagh Pendants – The story of the Claddagh is a popular component of modern Irish culture. The story of the first Claddagh ring is a romantic testament to the power of love and loyalty. According to legend, Robert Joyce, an Irish fisherman, was kidnapped by a goldsmith, and forced to work in his shop, far from the woman he left behind. In her honor, he designed a special ring, which featured two hands gently holding a crowned heart. Today, many Claddagh pendants use the crowned heart motif in original ways, creating pendants with a variety of shapes. As well, precious stones are carved into the shape of a heart, adding a welcome shot of color.
Saint Bridget’s Cross – This distinctive design is also derived from an important legend, one that still inspires the people of Ireland. Saint Bridget was known for her compassion and kindness to the ill and poor, and also for her devout faith in God. When she cared for a dying Irish chieftain, she demonstrated her faith by weaving a cross out of the rushes that lay upon the floor of the room. This simple, handmade cross became a potent symbol of true faith. Today’s pendants use delicate metalwork to imitate the woven cross, and they rely on the painstaking craftsmanship of Irish artisans, who undergo years of training before they can produce finished work. The Saint Bridget’s Cross pendant is a wonderful way to honor your love of God in everyday life. It always reminds its wearer to look within, and to care for all of humankind.
Shamrock Pendants – The Shamrock was used by Saint Patrick to represent the Holy Trinity. Saint Patrick believed that the three leaves of the shamrock illustrated the Father, the Son, and The Holy Trinity. He used the shamrock to help convert Ireland to Christ.Today’s Shamrock pendants often feature inlaid diamonds, and they are carefully crafted by hand, often in Ireland itself. The shamrock is one of the foremost symbols of Irish pride and patriotism, and it surfaces without fail each March 17th, when Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated.
Leigh Maher researches and writes about Celtic jewelry, and specialises in Celtic wedding rings, Celtic engagement rings and bridal jewelry. He also writes about wedding traditions, Celtic culture, and Ireland.
http://shoppingproductsguide.com/jewelry-charms/celtic-pendants-finding-the-best-choice-for-you.html
