Thursday, March 13, 2008

Celtic Jewelry - Symbols That Tie The Present And Past (Guest Article)


By Ned D'Agostino

If you weren't paying attention, it may have seemed that the sudden popularity of Celtic jewelry was something that just burst on to the scene. But those that know better understand that this revival of sorts was actually thousands of years in the making.

If you are looking for jewelry that is both striking and makes a statement, it's time for you to take a look at what this jewelry has to offer. This bold, stylized type of adornment is derived from the art of the ancient Celtic people of Europe. It has a variety of different meanings and it is no wonder that this kind of jewelry has become so attractive and desirable in recent years.

Celtic art, which is reproduced in silver and can easily be found on earrings, rings, bracelets and pendants, is ornamental, but it could be found in a wide variety of different locations. Perhaps most famously, it has been found on large stone monoliths and posts, but the distinctive, intertwining knotted designs have also been seen on jewelry and on the illuminations of the day, done up in bright and vibrant colors as well as in gold and silver paints.

Today, Celtic designs can be seen primarily on silver and gold jewelry, and there are many reasons why it is so popular. During the middle part of the nineteenth century, there was an Irish revival that featured a reclaiming and reassertion of Irish identity. It was, in many countries, called a Celtic revival. As a result of this movement, there were many showcases of Celtic art that exemplified the twisting designs of the art that is so very distinctive.

This notable form of Celtic art is important to various people in various ways. For some, it is an important part of claiming their Irish or English heritage, one that goes back more than a thousand years. As such, it can put them in touch with their roots in a very visual manner. Similarly, other people are fond of the Celtic designs because of their unending nature; the long loops without breaks are very striking and can be quite meaningfully interpreted by the people who choose to adopt them as personal symbols.

Still other people like the symbolism of specific pieces of artwork themselves. For instance, one example of an ancient engagement ring was the claddagh, a representation of two hands holding a crowned heart. Many couples have adopted this piece of jewelry as a personal statement of their commitment to each other and as an assertion of their bonds with the past.

It is no wonder that Celtic jewelry has made such an impression on people today. Along with a fascinating intriguing design, it offers a great deal of insight into the past, and like any good adornment it decorates and beautifies the wearer!

For more information on Celtic jewelry visit http://www.costume-jewelry-guide.com, a popular website devoted to all different kinds of fashion jewelry including beaded, turquoise and body jewelry.

Celtic Jewelry - The Beautiful Mystery Unraveled - Guest Article


By Victor Epand

Mysteries and mystical objects always have the power to hold humans in awe. Celtic jewelry has a rich history that flaunts a proud tradition and the jewelry comes in intricate designs and serves as a reminder of the traditions and rituals followed by the Celts.

Celtic jewelry is popularly known as Claddagh jewelry and is appreciated for its intricacy and traditional exquisiteness. Jewelers use numerous Celtic patterns like the cross and spiral to create mysterious jewelry pieces. Celtic spirals symbolize eternity and are abundantly used in Celtic jewelry. Celtic cross pre-dates the Christian cross for about two centuries and according to legend, St Patrick created the cross by drawing a circle over the Latin cross.

Celtic cross: Catholics believe that the Celtic cross denotes eternity and endless love for the Almighty. It also represents the halo of Christ. Celtic cross is thought to represent superior knowledge, fortitude, and understanding to handle all trials and tribulations of life as compared to the Christian cross that protects the wearer from harm. Some say that the Celtic cross represents the four directions of the compass and some feel that it is the representation of human existence like mind, soul, body and heart.

Celtic Knots: Celtic knots are the most distinguishing features of Celtic jewelry, with intricate designs and patterns. Numerous ancient designs had some significance and every symbol's meaning changed within every tribe and location. A celtic knot denotes eternity and interconnectedness and yet, you will not find any definitive guide that explains the Celtic knots.

Celtic rings and bracelets are the most popular Celtic jewelry items and usually complete the symbolism. Before buying wedding bands, you must understand the meaning behind the knots to enjoy the illusive feel of the Celtic wedding bands. Many ancient motifs are generally embedded into mysterious cultures that are part of Celtic history and some knots are as ancient as 20,000 years.

Knot works are synonymous with Celtic style thus making the rings more sacred and highly sought after. Celtic music and poetry is known to bring love and the soul together. Celtic wedding band knots express two different paths as in souls intermingling with each other to project interconnections that can be viewed as tapestry. Celtic rings and bracelets can be given to friends as a gesture of love and loyalty.

Celtic necklaces are also integral parts of Celtic jewelry and it entirely depends on the wearer's preference. Pendants usually depict the image of Celtic figures like the ever-popular knot, spiral, serpent, Celtic cross and dragon. Such symbols have deep spiritual and religious meaning.

Celtic jewelry enhances all dresses and adds a spiritual meaning to any occasion. You do not have to be Irish or Scottish to appreciate and wear Celtic jewelry. Whether you receive this classy set as a gift or as a personal keepsake, these unique and intricately designed pieces can be enjoyed to enhance your beauty.

Journey of Celtic Jewelry

Earlier Celtic people were found throughout the European countries as well as the British Islets where the earliest Celtic Jewelry originated. Celts were later influenced by the emergence of the Roman Empire and thus were forced to abandon their homes and relocate in the remote lands of Scotland, Cornwall, Wales, and Ireland etc. Despite all these hardships the Celts endured and thrived and continued producing the Celtic jewelry.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant about jewelry including celtic jewelry. When looking for jewelry, we recommend you shop only at the best online jewelry stores for celtic jewelry, loose diamonds, diamond rings, celtic jewelry, fashion earrings, fashion pendants, engagement rings, wedding rings, and wedding bands.