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.

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There are many symbols associated with Celtic Jewelry, not the least of which is the Triquetra, or Trinity Knot. This symbol is translated from Latin to literally mean “three cornered.” The Triquetra is made of three triangular shapes linked together to form one large triangle shape. It can signify several things, the most popular of which being the Holy Trinity of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The Trinity Knot can also be used to indicate a generational bond of the past, present and future or of familial generations such as mother, daughter and grandmother.

Truly, this symbol has been used to demarcate anything that has three sacred elements. It can also be used to symbolize a tie to nature (land, sea and air or earth, wind and fire). Modern interpretations of the Trinity Knot have even found it being used by Wiccans and New Agers to represent variant ideas. Wiccans use the Trinity Knot to symbolize their triple goddesses or the interconnectedness of mind, body and soul.

Historically, the Trinity Knot has been found equally used in pagan ritualistic symbology as well as in Celtic Christian books and relics. It can be found on runes in Northern Europe, on early Germanic coins and on ancient Celtic illuminated manuscripts such as the Book of Kells.

In Celtic Jewelry, though, the Trinity Knot is most often used to demarcate religious devotion. Combined with traditional interlace patterns, the Triquetra is perhaps the most common symbol found in Celtic jewelry. Celtic rings and other pieces of Celtic jewelry that bear this symbol are ideal gifts for weddings, graduations and births.

Similar knots used in Celtic jewelry include the Eternity Knot, the Lover’s Knot and Heart knots. The Eternity Knot has a closed path, with no discernable end or beginning. This, like the Trinity Knot, gives credence to the idea of eternal live and love. The Lover’s Knot and Heart knots are similarly designed to create depictions of intertwined affection and allegiance. Commonly found on Celtic rings, these designs can also be used in necklaces, pendants, bracelets and earrings.

Steven Forsyth

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Even if you’re not familiar with the story of the Claddagh, you’ve likely seen the symbol of two hands holding a heart under a crown. This is the Claddagh symbol, and it carries a decadent history. Traditionally formed in a gold or silver ring, the Claddagh symbol is often given as a token of love (platonic or romantic). It can also be worn as an engagement or wedding ring. On a basic level, the Claddagh symbolizes friendship (hands), love (heart) and loyalty (crown). However, there is much more behind this symbol than the literal translation of its design elements. The story of its formation is as appealing as its intricate design.

Although there are many different versions, the most widely accepted story of the Claddagh’s origins begins in the 17th century, during the reign of Queen Mary II. According to legend, a young Celt named Richard Joyce left his native land of Galway to pursue work in the West Indies. He left his betrothed love in Galway, promising to return to marry her. During his journey, however, his ship was captured and he was sold as a slave to a Moorish goldsmith in Algiers. Here, he learned the crafts of metal work and goldsmithing.

After several years, William III ascended the throne as king and demanded that the Moors release all British prisoners. Joyce was freed and the goldsmith, having much respect for him, offered his daughter’s hand in marriage and half his wealth if Joyce would stay in Algiers. Joyce denied his offer, determined to return home and marry his true love. He forged a ring with two hands, a heart and a crown as a symbol of his never-ending love and devotion. Upon his return to Galway, he presented this ring to his true love and they were married.

Celtic jewelry pieces are timeless gifts that carry rich tradition. There are several expressions associated with this design, including “With my two hands I give you my heart, and crown it with my loyalty” and “Let love and friendship reign forever.” Giving a Claddagh ring to someone you care about is the ultimate symbol of your affection.

Steven Forsyth

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