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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Like Celtic oral history, the art of Celtic jewelry craftsmanship has been passed down for centuries. Refined and detailed, Celtic jewelry is uniquely distinguishable with its knots, spirals, interlace and religious motifs. Originally, Celtic design elements were used in battle, on shields and clothing adornments. Throughout time, though, these same symbols were employed in the creation of intricate jewelry pieces such as rings, brooches, bracelets, pendants and earrings. Celtic jewelry is traditionally crafted completely by hand, even to this day. Because of the level of intricacy and attention to detail, many of the designs cannot be adequately duplicated by machine.

History of Celtic Jewelry Making

Nature has always been a large part of Celtic culture, so it’s no surprise that Celtic jewelry designs are rooted in the same ideals. Between 2,000 BC and 500 AD, Celtic craftsmen used their beliefs about the land, their religion and stories of devotion among lovers to design motifs using gold, bronze and silver. Knotwork, spirals, interlace and crosses are common elements of Celtic jewelry, as well as animals and triskeles (a special type of spiral design). After this period, Celtic jewelry was widely traded across the Mediterranean and beyond.

Irish monks adopted early Celtic symbols and embellished them into designs like the Celtic Cross, or “high cross.” This symbol can be found throughout Celtic culture, from gravestones and churches to ancient manuscripts such as the famed books of Kells, Lindisfarne and Durrow. Additional handiwork can be found on the monk’s chalices, crosiers and religious jewelry as well.

Today, Celtic jewelry craftsmanship is second to none. With rich history and tradition wrapped into each design, Celtic jewelry offers the owner a special connection to timeless fantasy, religion and tradition. There is meaning behind every element of Celtic symbols and the pieces you choose to wear and gift to others will always hold significance because of the history each provides. In particular, Celtic wedding rings and Celtic engagement rings are profound examples of jewelry items that exemplify timeless connection with the past and with hope for the future. These are more than just rings; they are pieces of art.

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