| An ancient and storied art that transcends time and | | | | there are certain knots that are known as marriage or |
| cultures, Celtic jewelry is known for its flowing lines | | | | love knots, which are a great example of the Celtic |
| with swirls, spirals and knots that represent the | | | | philosophy on the interconnectedness of life. Another |
| interconnectedness of life. | | | | popular use of the knot is the Celtic cross design. |
| Celtic History | | | | It was originally a pagan symbol that used four arms |
| Thousands of years ago, they covered Europe with | | | | of even length to represent the four elements of the |
| tribes. Earliest recorded history comes from about 500 | | | | earth, but as Christianity arose, it took on a more |
| B.C., but there are indications that they had been | | | | religious meaning. Animals are also popular elements in |
| around much longer than that. Also, any early historical | | | | this style of jewelry as is the Celtic heart design. |
| references came from neighboring tribes and their | | | | Rings, pendants, bracelets, earrings, cuff links-this |
| enemies. As a result, they were not painted in the best | | | | design is used to create all kinds of pieces so |
| light and, in fact, were considered barbaric. They were | | | | everyone can wear it. And, the piece doesn't have to |
| feared by the enemies because they were known to | | | | mean anything to enjoy the beauty of the |
| chop off the heads of their conquests. | | | | craftsmanship that went into its creation. |
| Listening to these accounts, it is hard to believe that | | | | Caring for the Jewelry |
| these are the same people responsible for the delicate | | | | Celtic silver jewelry is typically sterling silver and should |
| and intricate patterns of Celtic jewelry. But, as | | | | be cleaned using silver cleaner that is designed to |
| everything evolves over time, the Celts became more | | | | remove the tarnished spots. This cleaner comes in |
| civilized and when the Bronze Age arrived, they were | | | | wipes, cloths, creams and liquid cleaners so choose |
| busily honing their metal-crafting skills. | | | | what works best for the type of jewelry. |
| Irish Celtic Jewelry Design | | | | Gold pieces can be cleaned in regular jewelry cleaner. |
| Though the Celts lived all throughout Europe, most | | | | If the piece is antiqued or enameled, soak it in warm |
| people think of Ireland or Scotland when they think of | | | | water with a mild soap instead of a harsher cleaner. |
| this culture. This region is also the origin of the art | | | | This is to make sure the finish is not damaged. |
| associated with them. The hallmarks of these designs | | | | Celtic jewelry design is an ancient and storied art that |
| are the swirls, spirals and knots. Flowing swirling lines | | | | transcends time and cultures. There is a bit of magic to |
| are the basis for any pattern whether it forms a | | | | it and the designs can be worn with any wardrobe |
| design or an image. The lines all cross and connect | | | | style-light and airy for casual spring and summer and |
| and this is indicative of the the belief that all things are | | | | heavier and more intricate for evening wear. But, don't |
| connected in life. | | | | save it for special occasions, add a bit of art and |
| There is no set meaning for the different designs, but | | | | magic to every day with Irish Celtic jewelry. |