| At Enchanted Silver we have always been intrigued by the mysterious and varied styles of Celtic jewelry. We’ve emphasized making Celtic jewelry a cornerstone of our business, and intend to continually add additional Celtic selections. We thought it would be helpful to share some information on the background and meaning of this jewelry.
History
The ancient Celts were a dominant society in Western Europe dating back to at least 2,500 B.C. Despite recent archaeological successes, little is known about their culture, as history and traditions were passed down by word of mouth rather than using written records. The Celts created sophisticated designs which captured their reverence for nature and spirituality. The expansion of the Roman Empire in Europe contributed to the decline of their culture, although it should be noted that the Romans never effectively controlled Ireland or Scotland. Despite the decline of the Celts as a distinct race or ethnic group, their intricate artwork and designs have survived through the ages. Celtic jewelry today is as popular as it has ever been.
Claddagh
Like many popular Celtic pieces, the meaning and origin of this extremely popular symbol is difficult to determine due to lack of written history. One legend has it that this design was conceived by a young man in the 16th century after being enslaved and separated from his lover for 5 years. Upon his release, he presented a ring bearing this now famous symbol to his lover in the town of Claddagh, Ireland. Clearly, the heart symbolizes love, while the hands on either side represent eternal friendship. Some pieces also include a crown, which represents loyalty or fidelity. The term Claddagh frequently has variations of spelling including Claddaugh, Cladagh and Cladaugh.
Celtic Knotwork
The Celts believed strongly in the oneness and connection of all life, and the concept of reincarnation/rebirth in pursuit of spiritual fulfillment. These beliefs were expressed through intricate knotwork patterns, continuously flowing with no beginning or end. Celtic knotwork is frequently integrated with animal or even human forms.
Spirals
The spiral design represents the continuity of life, growth and expansion, and is intended to capture nature’s processes moving outward and inward in a continuing cycle of rebirth. Spirals are frequently arranged in a triskel design, representing the natural, human and divine characteristics of life. Spiral designs are among the oldest and most popular symbols. They were frequently carved into rock by the ancient Celts, as evidenced by Irish burial stones dating back to many centuries before Christ.
Animals
The Celts were renowned for their integration of animal designs into their artwork and jewelry. Serpents, dogs, dragons, wolves, birds, deer are but a few examples. Frequently Celtic knotwork melds into unique animal depictions.
Celtic Crosses
Celtic crosses are intended to represent the bridge to worlds beyond. These crosses predate Christianity, originally as equal armed crosses with a circle (symbolizing eternity) connecting the four quarters. The four quarters represent earth, wind, fire and water. Following the introduction of Christianity, more elongated versions emerged, including the integration of elaborate Celtic knotwork.
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