Celtic Rings
The term Celts refers to a number of interrelated ancient peoples living in central Europe. It is believed that originally they came from Eastern Europe. River Danube was their motorway for traveling. Using this motorway of theirs they spread into different parts of Europe like Austria, Germany, Scotland, Ireland, some parts of France and also Eastern part of Russia.
First recording of the existence of Celts was done by Greeks in 4th century. The Celts dominated a large area, and each tribe had their own identities. But nevertheless they did share many similarities in religion and their lifestyles. They used to share a branch of Indo-European languages indicating their common origin. They are assumed of occupying lands that stretched from British Isles to Gallatia.
The Celts used to dye their bodies with a substance called woad and drew animal forms and swirl patterns on their skin. Patterns decorated clothing and everyday objects as well. Much of the Celtic art is depicted with animals as the subject. Birds have been used on jewelry, cookware and murals on walls. It seems that Celts believed that by painting a certain animal or bird on their belongings, they would be bestowed with its characteristics. For example, they thought if they paint a wolf on their weapon they would have the bravery and cunning of a wolf and look fierce in battle like a wolf. Picture of a hawk would give them good eye sight. They lovingly recreated animal symbols on their shields and other belongings.
Now a days, the term "Celtic" is often used to describe the languages and respective cultures of Scotland, Ireland, Cornwall, Brittany and the Isle of Man. The early Celts strongly believed in the interconnectedness of life. We can see the reflection of this belief in their interlaced patterns. They have left behind an enduring legacy of hypnotic knots and spirals. Some of these knots and spirals are drawn so finely that people started to call it "the work of angels". Most of the examples of Celtic artwork that we see today comes from stone carvings, some as old as 3000BC. Celtic artwork is made up of many different interlinked patterns.
Celtic knots or Celtic interlace are ornamental patterns that were primarily used to decorate Bible manuscripts,
monuments and jewelry. Celtic knots are complete loops and have no end or beginning. Celtic animal interlace is also similar in construction to the knots, but the cords terminate in feet, heads, tails etc. A good Celtic artist who knows well about the Celts tradition never leaves a loose end on a strand unless it is styled into a spiral or zoomorphic element. Pure Celts knots are always unending. At this point of ornamental grammar one can distinguish if the Celtic design has been made by an artist well versed with Celtic tradition or not.
Celtic craftsmen used to use silver and gold to make the jewelry. Various Celtic symbols like Triskelion, Triquetra, Triple Spiral, Five-fold pattern, Threefold pattern, crosses etc were inevitably the subject of Celtic jewelry art (For more information about the Celtic symbols, kindly refer to useful links). The Celtic jewelry being ornate, symbolic and enchanting was highly sought after. The Celtic jewelry had become very famous because of its beauty and the trade of Celtic jewelry such as rings, bracelets, pendants etc was quite successful across the Mediterranean.
It's amazing to think that even after thousands of years, these Celtic patterns are still popular and have been fashioned into a wide selection of gold and silver jewelry. Out os these Celtic wedding rings are one of the most sought after type of Celtic jewelry. Celtic wedding rings are based on Celtic tradition and history. They are very popular around the world and preferred by men and women alike. Every Celtic ring has a special meaning behind it which makes it much more significant in compare to other rings. These wedding rings are designed with interwoven patterns making them a symbol of true meaning.
Claddagh Ring, one of the most popular Celtic rings is another timeless piece of precious Celtic jewelry. The name comes from the town of Claddagh in Ireland and is attributed to a former slave, Richard Joyce. The hands encompassing the heart are said to represent friendship, the heart of the Claddagh represents love, and the crown atop the heart is symbolic of loyalty. These symbolic meaning of Claddagh make it easy to understand as to why it is such a popular and appropriate choice for a wedding or engagement.
Not only the meaning behind the ring is important, significant also is as to how it is worn. Traditionally, if the Claddagh ring is worn on the right hand with the crown turned outwards, indicates that the love is being considered. Worn on the right hand with the crown turned inwards indicates that the wearers heart is still not occupied. someone is in a serious relationship. According to some, Claddagh worn on the left hand with the crown in either direction indicates that wearer has given a promise of love and fidelity.
With innumerable choices available in the market, it is more then likely to get confused, but if its quality, depth and beauty you’re looking for, then you can’t go wrong with Celtic wedding rings. The endless strand of the Celtic knot is a symbol of eternity. The crossing of the strands of the knot in traditional Celtic wedding rings represents the various paths of our lives. The interlacing, non ending knots are meant to mean everlasting and eternal as there is no beginning and no end and are a popular pattern in wedding rings for obvious reasons.
Celtic wedding rings have a classic, medieval look and the material used also gives it modern-day strength. Celtic wedding rings are available from market in a wide choice of designs and styles, making them suitable for every budget. Whether you like the antique, classic look or the meaningful designs and knots, you are sure to find a Celtic wedding ring to suit you.
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