History of Celtic Jewelry
The history of Celtic jewelry dates back to at least 200 BC, when early settlers of the region that was to become Ireland forged gorgeous and diverse items from bronze, silver, and gold. The Celts were a warrior culture, but since many of the great Celtic tribes were nomadic (and thus didn’t keep written records of the symbolism of their treasures), it’s often difficult to interpret the representations of the earliest pieces.
During the first millennium and into the middle ages, Celtic jewelry designs were influenced by trends coming out of continental Europe, Scotland, the Mediterranean, and the Far East. Even the Hun invaders left cultural marks. The Catholic Church also played a critical role in forging the direction of Celtic jewelry craftsmanship.
One of the intriguing aspects of the history of Celtic jewelry is that key symbols, such as Celtic knots, the Pentacle, and the Claddagh, can be interpreted in a myriad of ways.
The Celtic philosophy is rooted in the idea of the interconnectedness of nature. Indeed, animal symbolism abounds in Celtic jewelry. For instance, birds or other winged creatures may be symbolic of death or chaos. Deer or white stags may be symbols of change and/or representatives of deities of the forest, such as Cernunnos and Saba. Myths associated with the simple salmon also play an important role in shaping the aesthetics and design of certain ancient and historic Celtic Jewelry items. The legend of Nudons and the so called Nine Hazels of Wisdom speak to the power of the underworld in Celtic lore.
One of the most powerful early Celtic symbols was the dragon – a mythical animal common to the fables of early British inhabitants, Druids, and Welsh progenitors as well. Numerous Irish tales – such as Dwyn Ap Nuad and Taliesin – celebrate the heroism of canines. Some archeologically important early Celtic jewelry and Celtic rings offer reverent symbolic depictions of “man’s best friend.”
The National Museum of Ireland often houses key exhibits on the history of Celtic jewelry, but in any season you can usually find a plethora of early incarnations of beloved Celtic symbols, such as the Trinity Knot, St. Bridget’s Cross, and the Tara Brooch.
If you’re searching for custom-tailored Celtic jewelry, or you’d like to discover more about the magic and mystery underlying Celtic jewelry traditions, don’t hesitate to contact us here at celtic-weddingrings.com. We’re a Dublin Ireland based fine jeweler with over two decades of experience. We hand tool a diverse array of fine platinum, gold, and silver products – all made to order. Whether you’re searching for a Celtic engagement ring to propose to your beloved by the Blarney Stone or you’re simply curious about the process of traditional Celtic jewelry craftsmanship, we’re happy to answer any questions. Email us here on site or dial toll free (from the US) at 1 800 350-9962.
Written by Steven Forsyth of Celtic Rings Ltd.