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.