Historically, Celtic jewelry carries rich traditions of storytelling, romance and devotion. Celtic rings are just part of the countless options available for both men and women, and Celtic engagement rings are particularly loved the world over. As a matter of fact, Celtic rings of all types are often passed down through family generations as priceless heirlooms. Family is a central part of Celtic culture and since Celtic jewelry symbols are all about love, friendship and loyalty, it makes sense that family members would want to pass these pieces on to future generations.
Claddagh rings are excellent pieces to pass on to children and grandchildren because they have several meanings. They can be given as wedding or engagement rings, but they can also convey friendship and familial bond as well. Worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward, a Claddagh ring expresses the wearer’s romantic availability. A ring passed from a mother to a daughter before she is married would typically be worn as such. Worn with the heart turned inward communicates that you are in a relationship but not married. The ring is then worn on the left hand after getting engaged (heart turned outward) and after marriage (heart turned inward).
Celtic rings that feature spirals are also central to the Celtic tradition. After interlace designs, spirals are the most common motif in Celtic rings. They have been used for centuries by many cultures, and were first incorporated into Celtic metal work around 2,000 BC during the Celtic Iron Age. Thousands of years later, Celtic craftsmen adopted these spirals into jewelry design. Popular styles include La Tene and Ultimate La Tene. Spirals are also used to convey nature themes, such as snails, planets, whirlpools and galaxies. If your family is particularly interested in cosmic symbolism, these pieces of Celtic jewelry may be passed on as heirlooms.
Clockwise spirals, also known as sunwise circles, are traditionally used as Gaelic blessings or good-luck symbols. These are also excellent designs to choose when looking for family pieces, since they can carry the “luck of the Irish” with them for family members during momentous occasions such as weddings, funerals, graduations and births.
