The Ultimate Guide to Irish Jewelry.

Hi everyone. I hope I find you all well. This week it’s all about Irish jewelry. I’ve chosen some of my favorite pieces featuring much loved Irish symbols such as the Claddagh and the Trinity knot. There’s also a short history of these cornerstones of Celtic jewelry design.

Irish Jewelry – 5 Classic Pieces

1.The Claddagh

Firstly, it’s everyone’s favorite Claddagh. The Claddagh is almost certainly the most popular symbol in Irish jewelry. The story of the Claddagh dates back some 300 years to the fishing village in county Galway of the same name.

Legend has it that Richard Joyce, a native of Galway, was captured and sold to slavery in Algiers. While there, he was taught his craft by a Moorish goldsmith. William III, the then king, sent an ambassador to Algiers. The ambassador arranged the release of all British prisoners. Richard Joyce was one of those prisoners. He was finally released after 14 years and returned to his home place where his sweetheart awaited him. While in captivity, he had made what we now know as the Claddagh Ring especially for her. The heart symbolizes love, the hand’s friendship and the crown loyalty.

2. The Trinity Knot

So next up it’s the ever-popular Celtic Trinity Knot. The Celtic trinity knot dates back to the 5th century. It was used extensively by ancient monks in illuminated manuscripts such as the Book of Kells and the Book of Durrow. It is symbolic of many things that are threefold and has long been considered a symbol of eternity.

The winning combination of graceful freshwater pearls and sterling silver make this Irish pendant and earrings set a real showstopper.

3. Celtic Cross

So many stories and myths surround the origins of the Celtic cross design. My favourite story centres around St Patrick. On seeing a pagan standing stone imprinted with a circle which represented the moon goddess, he blessed the stone with a Latin cross.  As a result, the first Celtic cross came into being.

The ancient Irish symbol of faith and worship is recreated in glorious detail in this stunning pendant. The arms are crafted from Ireland’s unique and ancient gemstone, Connemara Marble, 900 million years in the making. Beautifully accented with a sparkling marcasite stone. Handcrafted in Ireland from sterling silver. 

4. Celtic Brooch

Every Celtic brooch takes inspiration from one of Ireland’s most precious archaeological finds, the Tara Brooch. Discovered in 1850, it is now displayed in the National Museum of Ireland. This stunning Celtic pin draws inspiration from this rare and ancient Irish treasure. Handcrafted in sterling silver with 18 karat gold details and featuring classic Celtic knot designs.

5. Rosary Beads

Rosary beads are hugely popular with many of our customers and these beads are simply stunning. They feature striking square beads carved from 900 million-year-old Connemara Marble. The medal commemorates the apparition at Knock.

Take care,

Slán go fóill!

Lulu.