Some of the oldest symbols associated with the Celts are Celtic spirals. Prominently displayed on ancient artifacts dating long before the written word in Ireland, Celtic spirals are second only to Knotwork designs as the symbols most associated with Celtic art. These mythical spirals are among the oldest symbols associated with Celtic art. They are believed to represent the spiritual balance between inner and outer consciousness. People from many lands herald Celtic designs as the emblem of their heritage because the people known as "Celts" lived in many areas of modern-day Europe. 

The Triskele, or the Triskelion

The triskele, otherwise known as the triskelion, is a three-pronged spiral, and is often used as a basis for more complex spirals. Some suggest ancient Celtic triskeles represented the Triple Goddess of the three ages of womanhood. It later came to represent the Holy Trinity in Christianity - God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Whatever its' meaning, it is interesting that the motif is based around The Number 3 - regarded as a highly sacred number in many ancient cultures, not least The Druids.

Three is a Magic Number

The Druids believed in three worlds and in transmigration from one to the other: in a world above this one, in which happiness predominated; a world below, of misery; and this present state. This transmigration was to punish and reward, and also to purify the soul. In the present world, said the Druids, good and evil are so exactly balanced that man has the utmost freedom and is able to choose or reject either.Then there are three objects of metempyschosis: to collect into the soul the properties of all being, to acquire a knowledge of all things, and to get power to conquer all evil. They are also, the Celtic Druids say, three kinds of knowledge; knowledge of the name of each thing, of its cause, and its influence. Three things that continually grow less; darkness, falsehood, and death. And three things that constantly increase; light, life, and truth.The Number Three is a sacred symbol in many cultures all over the world. 

The Spiral of Life

The Triple Spiral, otherwise known as the "Spiral of Life", is found on many ancient Irish stone carvings - the most famous of which is Newgrange, found in County Meath, Ireland, which dates back to 2500 BC. Most scholars believe the spiral of life represents the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Others say this deeply mystical symbol represents the male, female, and child on the path of life. Another interpretation is that it also represents the Triple Goddess.

Trinity Celtic Knot or Triquetra

The Triquetra, commonly known as the Trinity knot, takes an individual strand and wraps it into and onto itself, such that it becomes a three-lobed, yet singular design. This design symbolized the connection of the three planes of existence: mind, body, and spirit. To Christians, it illustrated the essential core of Christian belief wherein one God was Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. For both beliefs, the Trinity knot symbolized the way in which three separate essences were vitally interconnected.

I am actively involved with a site called IrishAstrology.com concerning explanations and descriptions of Celtic Symbols and Celtic Tree Astrology Signs. The site also includes lots of Articles, an Amazon-driven Celtic Store, Free Celtic Screensavers, and free eBooks. My interests/hobbies include Astrology, Music, Reading, Sport, Cycling, Chocolate, My cat and a love for animals...our equals.

Understanding the Celtic Symbols in Celtic Wedding Bands

Celtic wedding bands have become quite popular nowadays. This is because many jewelers have been inspired to make their own works of art from the traditional Celtic designs used in the past. The most common Celtic designs are silver or gold Celtic wedding bands such as the Claddagh and the Celtic Knot.

The Claddagh Wedding Bands

The Claddagh wedding bands are the kinds of Celtic wedding bands that feature a design of two joined hands holding a heart that has a crown on top. Originally crafted by a fisherman by the name of Richard Joyce in the seventeenth century, the joined hands in the Claddagh wedding band stands for friendship, while the crown is the symbol for loyalty. The heart is, of course, the symbol for love.

The Celtic Knots in Celtic Wedding Bands

The knotwork is very much a characteristic of Celtic wedding bands, and it is one of the well-known styles of the Celts' artistic expression. The interwoven knots in most Celtic designs have a universal meaning that signifies two unlike paths brought and woven together. In weddings, this means that the lives of the husband and wife are interconnected with each other. As these interwoven knots also seem to have no beginning and no end, they are also meant to represent eternity.

There are different types of Celtic Knots commonly seen in gold or silver Celtic wedding bands, and one of these is the Trinity Knot or what is also known as the Love Knot. The interconnecting three points of the knot in this type of Celtic wedding bands are said to represent both the Christian and Celtic symbolism. For the ancient Celts, these points represent the Three Gods and Goddesses while for the Christians, the knot symbolizes the Holy Trinity. The knot pattern of the Trinity Knot, however, is seen to symbolize everlasting love, eternal life, and spiritual growth.

Knowing Which Symbolic Celtic Wedding Bands to Buy

So, if you and your groom are planning to buy Celtic wedding bands and you are very particular about symbolism, then it is good that you are now armed with information on the meanings of the symbols featured on these rings. With this, you will be able to choose the bands with the symbols that represent the foundations on which you want to build your marriage. If you want what the symbols of the Claddagh wedding bands stand for, then you should go for them or the Trinity Knot rings if these are what you prefer.

Look into the offerings of Celtic wedding bands on Irish Indeed! You will not only get the bands with the right Celtic symbols that you want but will also be able to buy them with a price that is just within your budget.

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The detailed and complicated patterns in Celtic engagement rings allow couples to communicate a love that's as wonderful and unique as the engagement ring itself. A culturally and historically inspired symbol, a Celtic knot engagement ring is a perfect reminder of devotedness and love that you don't need to be of Irish decent to appreciate. Worn all over the world, the Celtic knot is one of the most well known designs in Celtic jewelry, and is an unrivaled way for couples of all ancestries and origins to show their life long devotion to one another.

Modern Irish engagement rings combine the traditional symbolism of the Celtic knot or the Claddagh design with modern, fresh styles and methods. Diamond Celtic engagement rings can be found in a wide assortment of shapes, styles and sizes, including diamond solitaire, princess cut and three stone rings. Engagement rings featuring the Celtic knot and other Celtic design work can be found in yellow gold, two tones, white gold and platinum. It doesn't matter what you like best, Celtic engagement rings are a marvelous way for couples to make known a timeless love for one another in a way that is special and distinctive.

Irish engagement rings are an exceptional way to make known an eternal and honest dedication to one another, and an incorporation of the Celtic knot and Claddagh design is a wonderful way to merge both contemporary and conventional symbolism. Going back more than four hundred years, the Claddagh design shows a crown above two hands that hold a heart. Generally when a person wears a Claddagh ring on the left hand with the crown pointing away from the heart it means that whoever is wearing it is engaged. Representing loyalty, love and friendship, a Claddagh Irish engagement ring is a perfect reminder of the reason a couple is together.

Steeped in history and tradition, Irish and Celtic wedding rings are a beautiful way to signify two people's connection and love toward one another. Regardless of whether it is a Celtic knot or a Claddagh design, Irish wedding and engagement rings will be as extraordinary and unique as the love that two people have for one another. Unifying contemporary methods with historical traditions, these rings will represent a special reminder of the friendship and love that a couple will always share.

Leigh Maher is a writer for http://www.irishcelticjewels.com who writes about Celtic wedding rings and Irish engagements, both contemporary and traditional.

If you’re looking for better Celtic jewellery, you’re in luck. The internet world is doing a great thing, providing quality meaningful gifts for different people around the world. You used to have to go to a specific location, and hope that you end up seeing the greater of selections that exist out there. Not everyone carries this type of deeply symbolic jewelry and it’s interesting since more interest is being put into unique gifts. These unique pieces provide a wealth of interesting things for someone that is willing to give something left of center. Sure, you can spend your money on a traditional bracelet, but you need to think about doing something different.

There is no greater gift than the gift that comes to the heart. A unique gift goes a long way and in regards to jewelry anything but tradition seems to be great. However, more and more people are pushing forward with a better Celtic jewellery piece that will bring  a smile to your friend or loved one’s face. You will not regret your decision to create a new way to give the unique kindness that you can bring forth with such a great gift idea.

If you’re like others, you’re getting tired of the traditional gold and silver pieces of jewelry. Get yourself an interesting new thing with a great and easy gift, that keeps on moving forward. Better Celtic jewellery has never been so easy to get. You now can enjoy the greatness of the worldwide web and get a nice piece delivered to you from many different sources. You can even find these unique gifts on amazon.com, which is truly the world’s biggest online retailer. If you’re not going to get something unique, is it even worth going for? You need to be different, express your love and care with something new that no one is going to expect. That’s the great thing about this type of jewelry, it never is predictable and it has a great symbolism that can’t be denied at all. If you’re looking for a better gift idea, this is your lucky day, Celtic jewelry is beautiful, and best of all it’s affordable. Unlike many other jewels, this is a gift that won’t break the bank. You can’t beat that, that’s for sure.

In ancient days, we know that bronze, silver and gold were all used by Celtic craftsmen and we've found Celtic jewelry dating from 2000 BC to around 550 AD. Celtic symbols were definitely the focus of the piece and most likely individualized to the person it was being made for. Today, the makers of Celtic jewelry are keeping to this tradition, making these pieces highly coveted once more.

So what kind of Celtic jewelry was made in ancient times? In fact, the Celtic jewelry found has been rings, bracelets, pendants, hair pin decoration and brooches were found right across the Mediterranean so we know that the business of trade was successful for the lucky tribes who had a blacksmith.

The ancient Celts saw fire, which was used to make Celtic Jewelry, as a means that had transformative properties which would be the highest form of spiritual communication. On Celtic statues and art forms all around, they incorporated the design of three flames or sunrays on the faces of their deities, and on pictures of their clansmen and women. Great for woad design! These flames were drawn as three lines going up and outwards, fanning out on the forehead with the base of the three lines meeting at the bridge of the nose. Modern Druids are using this sign and it is called Arwen. Arwen is a Celtic concept of balance bringing together three things - the physical, knowledge & inspiration, and the spiritual. This might be something you'd like for the Celtic jewelry for your modern day clan.

The ancient Celts also honored the earth as their mother Goddess. They believed that when a kinsman/woman passed on, they had to be buried in a womb like cave facing west so that they would be reborn in the Celtic otherworld or Underworld. Some British and Welsh tribes call it the Isle of Avalon. But all Celts believed the afterlife continued on an isle across the sea. If someone you know has gone through a tough time, an earth symbol on their Celtic jewelry would be a great symbol to be reborn into a new phase!

Celtic jewelry also had creatures or animals. Celtic Totem animals were the earliest form of Gods. Gods changed into land areas where these animals came from, like the Salmon became a river Goddess and later, when males became more dominate, river Gods. When they were Christianized from 400's to 1700's CE, in more remote areas, these Gods became mythical beings like wizards, sorceresses, fairies, leprechauns and heroes. The air Gods became Sylphs. These come in the form of butterflies, after a loved one dies or when they wish to communicate something other than comfort they appear as sparkly, whirly, zoomy, flashy things written about in a few cultures legends. They were in the skies or air and only a few people can see them. Some say people who become more aware of their bodies, like a pregnant women, can experience this phenomenon. And others believe that these are actually butterflies. A symbol of the butterfly in Celtic jewelry is for those who are cocooning into a new phase of life, who are intuitive or needs strength for something.

Celtic knots, swirls, are a distinct style of Celtic artwork in Celtic jewelry, although truthfully there is no known actual symbolism that we know of. It doesn't matter though, as a few symbols have shed light on what they mean by studying other cultures. We know myths changed as society changed so we can take the myths of old and make them our own. After all, each tribe developed their own unique stories so we can too!

You can read more about Celtic symbolism on each piece of Celtic jewelry you look at and find the perfect piece for your friend or loved one both male or female!

http://www.celtsandvikings.com

Copyright December 2009

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Stylish Designs

Despite the fact that the designs of Celtic jewelry pieces are those that have been used for centuries, they have remained extremely stylish and trendy. These finely crafted rings are sure to catch the eye of anyone and everyone who sees these rings. In fact, many of the designs of Celtic jewelry pieces, especially its rings, are more eye-catching than those who have been set with various gems. This is a great plus factor for men who are looking for that perfect ring to propose to their beloved. These stylish designs are sure to fit the taste and style of your loved one whether she is the classical gal or the trendy fashionista.

Timeless Masterpieces

Love is meant to last for a lifetime. So should the engagement or wedding ring your loved one should wear. The timelessness of Celtic jewelry is not just on the fact that the designs used have lasted for centuries. Another factor for these pieces of jewelry to be so is the manner on how these are created. Celtic jewelry pieces are among the few remaining pieces of jewelry that are completely made by hand. This is the reason why these pieces of jewelry tend to cost a lot of money. But this is also the same reason why more and more men are looking into getting Celtic rings and other pieces of Celtic jewelry pieces. Because Celtic engagement rings and wedding bands are handmade, they are considered as more valuable, more delicate and more special. For these extremely special events in a person's life, these characteristics make these rings much more valuable.

Extremely Pleasing for both Genders

Even if you and your partner have lasted long enough for the two of you to decide to settle down and make the partnership permanent through marriage, there are still some things that you may never get along with. One example is your sense of fashion. It is for this reason that there are instances where couples who are getting married tend to get wedding bands that have some similarities, but not exactly matching. Celtic jewelry pieces have been known to be extremely pleasing to both men and women. So the likelihood that your fiancée would love the wedding band that had been inspired by Celtic designs and symbols would definitely be higher. This is because of the meanings incorporated in the symbols (which women really love) and the fact that these designs have long been worn by both men and women.

A Final Word

Getting engaged or married is one of the most important events in a person's life. Whether you are the man proposing or the woman hoping for the proposal, this event is meant to be something that is to last for a lifetime. As such, it is important to get something that would not just remind the person how much you love each other each and every single day.
There are a number of online stores over the Internet that now sell beautifully crafted Celtic-designed engagement rings and wedding bands for you to choose from. Many of these offers not just free delivery but a few additional perks such as warranties for cleaning and repair. So go on ahead, take your pick and purchase yours now.

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Product Description
A beautifully crafted Toucan Scottish Sterling Silver Scottish Thistle matching pendant and earring set. Celtic style Scottish Thistle pendant complete with matching 18 inch sleek curb chain and drop earrings (post and butterfly fastening).Gorgeous giftware!Solid Silver Scottish Thistle Pendant Measures approx: 2.3 cm total drop. Solid Silver Scottish Thistle Earrings Measures approx: 2.3 cm total drop. Sterling Silver Curb Chain - 18 inches long.Hallmarked 925 for ... More >>

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At present, Celtic jewelry is very popular around the world and excellent pieces of Celtic jewelry can still be found from those jewelers employing the same traditional jewelry making techniques of the skilled, ancient Celtic goldsmiths. Many of the popular designs seen today include artwork derived from the ancient manuscripts.

While the Celtic people as a clearly identifiable ethnic group are now long gone, their proud heritage of jewelry making lives on, especially in places where many of their descendants live today.Celtic rings and jewelry can be bought from brick-and-mortar jewelry stores but for the best selection and craftsmanship, go online or visit a specialty Irish jewelry store. If you are particular about quality, be sure to check that the jewelry originated from Ireland or Scotland. This is especially so if you are buying it as a wedding ring or engagement ring. For mass market silver Celtic jewelry, these can be found in abundance offline and online.

Celtic jewelry has been very popular over the years with all the various meanings behind it and its interesting designs. It offers beauty in all of its elaborate Celtic symbols and its graceful designs. Some of the popular design pieces of Celtic jewelry are cross jewelry, knot jewelry and Celtic rings which have been around for many years.The Celtic cross jewelry is a great offering of this culture and is loved by many. It is said to be the symbol of eternity by many people. Some people think that the Celtic cross stands for other things such as earth, fire, water and air. Others think that it is the representation of existence meaning mind, heart, body and soul.Another type of Celtic jewelry is the Celtic knot design that are designed with very unique and detailed patterns on them. Many people dispute the meanings Celtic knot jewelry may have with its complex designs. It is known that these designs carry some special importance with some people although with each set of tribes they carried different meanings. Some people believe that the complex loops in the knots ward off evil. Others believe that the loops mean eternity. There is no way to tell for sure what the meanings are regarding the Celtic knots although they are very appealing and interesting pieces of jewelry to many people.

Celtic rings are called Claddagh rings named for a town where they first originated. They are wonderful symbols of the Irish way of life. Not like other Celtic symbols, the meaning that the rings hold are well known. The ring design is of a heart meaning love that is topped with a crown that stands for loyalty and held by two hands meaning friendship. As such, these rings are commonly used as wedding bands and are very popular with many couples. They are worn on the left hand with the heart turned in to show that the person has been spoken for and is married. This type of jewelry has been popular for many years and people love them for the meaning behind what they represent. For centuries, this jewelry has been some of the more desired jewelry on the market.

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The two tone gold jewelry is customized to suit your needs

Unlike the normal jewelry collection wherein you need to be satisfied by just what you get, the two tone gold jewelry range, with special reference to the Celtic ring, is made in accordance to the customer's likes and dislikes. It is perfect for wedding ceremonies wherein women seek perfection in terms of their personal styling. They demand a jewelry which blends with their mindset. They can request for their personal styles to be incorporated in the rings and wear an object which blends with their personality.

Made to suit all occasions:

Two tone gold jewelry is multipurpose in nature and is made to suit both formal as well as informal occasions. Here, not only do you get the privilege of wearing your design, you can also choose from a wide variety of choices. Some of the rings are made of platinum while the rest prefer gold. You can choose from various gemstones as well. At the same time, two tone gold jewelry can be worn at work and it can also be worn to a casual birthday bash. So over here, the jewelry is made to blend with various occasions.

You can choose the color and settings of the gemstones

Two tone gold jewelry is made to please its end user therefore an effort is made by the jeweler to ensure that he uses those styles which suit the needs of the common man. If we talk of rings then, the Celtic collection allows women to choose the size and positioning of the gemstones. At the same time, you also have a chance to choose the color combination as well. The end result is a perfect blend of color and craftsmanship.

A perfect gift for a marriage ceremony

Two tone gold jewelry is made from the finest metals and has the capacity to please even the most reserved shoppers with its unique style and shape. At the same time, care is taken to ensure that the rings in the Celtic collection are made to compliment a marriage ceremony. You can choose a style, offer a shape and purchase an ideal gift for your beloved or for a special friend. Out here, the choice of precious stones and the styling is governed completely by the end user- the seller is more than happy to oblige. So when we have a collection which is unique and flexible, it is best to try and experiment. Here, we have a chance to showcase our personal choices in terms of an attractive object which is known to last a lifetime. Make a choice and remain satisfied for ever.

Two Tone Jewelry is a very fashionable choice. At Queen Bee, we've sponsored this guide to Two Tone Gold Jewelry. http://www.queenbjewelry.com

Gold chains are also handy with expressing your own style. You can create a variety of looks with these golden chains by stringing them with pendants and charms. As thus, you do not have to buy a lot of necklaces or bracelets just to have a new look every time you have to dress up. You can simply pair your golden chains with a pretty pendant or a handful of charms.

There are so many kinds of pendants and charms that you can go for. But if you are the type who likes unusual jewellery, you can create a unique look by matching your chains with Celtic jewellery pendants.

The Beauty of Celtic-Inspired Jewellery

Jewellery pieces done in Celtic designs have always been considered fascinating and magical. Many of us think this way because we have been fed with many fantasy stories involving elves and the fey folk, where these folk are often portrayed to wear jewellery similar to Celtic styles. Celtic styles in jewellery enjoyed immense popularity some years ago with the showing of The Lord of the Rings in theatres, as the elves of Rivendell and Lothlorien all wore beautiful Celtic-looking jewellery pieces.

But then, of course, the ancient Celtic druids were said to invoke the powers of nature through the symbols they wear on their jewellery. To this day, it is believed that wearing these symbols can protect a person and enhance the power of their spirits. Examples of these symbols are the Celtic spirals which denote eternity and immortality, the trinity knots of the Celtic three-fold goddess, and the chevron of strength.

Where to Get Celtic-Inspired Pendants

If you want to add a few pieces of Celtic-inspired pendants for your jewellery collection, you can get them from any silver jewelry stores that specialise in them. If you cannot find silver jewelry stores that sell Celtic pendants in your locale, you can always search for these silver jewelry stores online.

If you prefer silver jewellery, you can get a lot of Celtic-inspired pendants in silver. However, if you are going to match these Celtic pendants with your gold chains, you should get golden pendants. One of the cardinal rules in fashion is that the metals you are wearing with any outfit should match - gold with gold and silver with silver. You should only wear a piece that does not match if that particular piece of jewellery is something that you habitually wear everyday for personal reasons, such as your wedding ring or your favourite watch.

You should have a few gold chains in your jewellery box because they can serve as great accessories whenever you cannot decide what jewellery pieces to wear. They look good on any outfit, whether it is formal or casual. You can even express your personal style by matching your golden chains with Celtic jewellery pendants.

Karoline Watson is at the hub of all activities at Ola Gorie, as well as overseeing the admin, co-ordinating orders with the workshop and expediting delivery, she also finds time to write about the company and its many products. To learn more, just check out the website at http://www.olagoriejewellery.com.