The History of Connemara Marble

Hi Everyone. Recently we’ve had lots of enquiries from our customers regarding  Connemara Marble. So I thought it was time to revisit the history of Ireland’s ancient gemstone. It also gives me an excuse to share some of my top Irish jewelry picks from The Irish Store Collection!

Connemara

Connemara is a region in county Galway. The word Connemara comes from the Gaelic meaning “Inlets for the Sea”. When you go there you cannot help but be bowled over by it’s awe-inspiring beauty. I think Oscar Wilde described it best when he spoke of the region possessing a “savage beauty” . Here’s a video of my visit with Stephen Walsh at his marble quarry.

What is Connemara Marble?

Connemara Marble is a rare form of marble found in the region. It is typically greenish in colour. It is one of the rarest forms of marble in the world. Deposits date back some 600 million years! The marble forms when limestone is heated under pressure. While the colour is predominately green there are often shades of grey and brown seen throughout. 4000 year old axes made from Connemara Marble in the Stone Age can be seen in The National Museum of Ireland.

The Streamstown Marble Quarry

Streamstown Marble quarry in Clifden is the oldest of the marble quarries. It was opened in 1822 by the Joyce Family. The Joyce name was to become synonymous with Connemara Marble supplying world-famous buildings with the Ireland’s iconic marble. One of the finest examples of Connemara Marble in Ireland forms the stunning floor of Galway Cathedral.

Other examples can be found in Westminster Cathedral, London’s General Post Office and the Natural History Museum in Oxford. In 1895, New York marble merchant Robert C Fisher imported large quantities to the States. It adorns many buildings, especially churches and cathedrals. The most famous examples in America can be seen in the Senate Chamber and Senate Post Office of the State Capital Building, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Of course today Connemara Marble is hugely popular in Celtic jewelry design. Here’s our top 3 favorite pieces from The Irish Store.

Lulus Top Connemara Marble Jewelry  Picks 

1. Marcasite & Connemara Marble Celtic Cross

We’ll start with our 5-star rated Celtic cross pendant. There’s so much to love about this gorgeous necklace. First of all, there’s the exquisitely crafted Trinity knot detailing. Then there’s the highly polished arms of Connemara Marble, Ireland’s unique and ancient gemstone. Finally, there’s the single marcasite stone at the centre, giving a touch of subtle sparkle. Crafted from sterling silver and hallmarked at Dublin Castle.

2. Silver Connemara Marble Claddagh Ring

So next up it’s another 5 star customer favorite. The eye-catching green marble stone forms the centerpiece of this beautiful Claddagh ring, while the band features an exquisitely woven Celtic knot design. Beautifully crafted from sterling silver.

3. Connemara Marble Celtic Tara Brooch

This stunning Celtic pin draws inspiration from one of Ireland’s iconic treasures, the Tara Brooch. Discovered in the 19th century and dating back to 700 AD. A stunning example of early Celtic art. A stand out Irish brooch and the perfect gift from the Emerald Isle.

So why not own your own little piece of ancient Ireland from our gorgeous collection of Connemara Marble Jewelry. And don’t forget to use BLOG10 at the checkout to receive a 10% discount!

See you next week.

Slán go fóill!

Lulu.