Category: Celtic Jewelry

Celtic Jewelry, Irish Jewelry, Jewelry Care

What Does Gold Karat Mean?

Kierand LLC

What is Karat Gold?

Karat Gold refers to a standardized industry unit of measurement regarding the percentages of metal alloy added to pure to to either strengthen it, decrease gold caratage to reduce costs or change it’s color.

This World Gold Council chart shows some examples of the composition of various caratages of gold.

 CaratageGold(Au)Silver (Ag) Copper (Cu)Zinc (Zn)Palladium (Pd) 
Yellow Gold9k37.5%42.50%20%  
Yellow Gold10k41.70%52%6.30%  
Yellow Gold14k58.30%30%11.70%  
Yellow Gold18k75%15%10%  
Yellow Gold22k91.70%5%2%1.30% 
White Gold9k37.5%62.5%   
White Gold10k41.7%47.4% 0.9%10%
White Gold14k58.30%32.20%  9.50%
White Gold18k75%   25% (or Pt)
White Gold22kN/AN/AN/AN/AN/A
Rose Gold9k37.5%20%42.5%  
Rose Gold10k41.70%20%38.3%  
Rose Gold14k58.30%9.2%32.5%  
Rose Gold18k75%9.2%22.2%  
Rose Gold22k91.7% 8.40%  

Notes:

White gold compositions listed here are nickel free. Nickel-containing white gold alloys form a small/very small percentage of white gold alloys and generally contain other base metals such as copper and zinc.

The following are the common standards of fineness that are used:

.375 = 9 carat (England and Canada)

.417 = 10 carat

.583 (.585) = 14 carat

.750 = 18 carat

.833 = 20 carat (Asia)

.999 (1000) = 24 carat pure gold

What are Rose Gold rings?

Rose gold wedding rings are a beautiful color of gold often seen in Victorian pieces and has become popular in wedding rings today. Rose gold rings contains Yellow Gold, but with a higher or larger percentage of Copper as the added alloy to give it its pink gold or “rose” color.

What about White Gold?

To make white gold rings, or jewelry, pure gold is combined with higher or larger percentages of white metal alloys like silver, nickel & palladium. To make white gold rings or silver rings have a whiter or brighter white it is often plated in rhodium.

Pure Gold is yellow and even when combined with white metal alloys it still can appear very yellow in color therefore the white gold wedding rings like sterling silver wedding rings are plated with a very bright white metal called rhodium.

Caring for your Gold jewelry

To keep gold wedding rings and gold jewelry shiny, you should clean your Celtic jewelry regularly with a solution of 10-parts warm water and 2-parts dish soap. The favorite dish soap of jewelers for jewelry is Dawn.

In regard to white gold and sterling silver Celtic jewelry it is important to remember that Rhodium-plate eventually wears off over time and normal wear revealing the true color of the metal beneath and allowing for tarnishing. How long will it take for the plating to wear off is unknown and depends on how well the jewelry is cared for. However remember that rhodium-plating is replaceable and can be re-done by your local jeweler, and is relatively inexpensive.

Celtic Jewelry, Irish Jewelry, News

Men’s Jewelry Trends 2021-2022

Kierand LLC

Let’s talk about social media infuencers, those nifty trend setters. Today with the popularity of social media these days trends in jewelry especially, are spreading quickly. Men’s jewelry trends in fashion are on fire as of late. As it turns out men like to accessorize just as much as women. They are taking a lot more pictures of their own curated style on social media showing off their various talents, body art and fashion sense just as much as female influencers are these days.

Men’s Celtic Cross Tigers Eye Bracelet

Bracing for Bracelets

All over social media there are images of men wearing bracelets. Often these bracelets are stacked and they are a mixing looks such as chunky metal and beaded men’s bracelets. Usually multiple beaded men’s bracelets.

The Statement Ring

With every image of a man wearing a bracelet undoubtedly he also has on a big bold statement ring. Often multiple men’s rings on one hand. These rings are large statement rings that ooze a certain bad boy, rock and roll style.

Oxidized Celtic Knot Ring Silver 10K Gold

Bands are tried and true favorite

Often mixed in with the men’s statement ring is an assortment other rings including a few simpler yet stylish wedding band usually to accent these more bold statement rings. Men are wearing rings and multiple rings in a variety of metals such as stainless steel, sterling silver and gold. In all sorts of combinations. I have even see a few rock-in a claddagh ring.

Diamonds aren’t just a girls best friend

With the recent launch of a famous retailers men’s engagement ring collection it is more and more obvious there is a market for cross over men’s bridal and unisex wedding ring styles. Diamond Wedding rings that have a classic style that works for any and all sexes.

Men’s Celtic Tag Necklace

Symbols of faith and love

Men all over social media are depicted wearing symbols of their faith and love around their necks. Layered necklace in various combinations of crosses, like the Celtic cross and saint medals in a mix of metals. Claddagh necklaces for men have always been a traditional favorite symbol of love.

Celtic Jewelry, Claddagh Rings, Irish Jewelry, Irish Wedding Traditions

Celtic Wedding Rings: The Ultimate Guide

Kierand LLC

Couples looking for a unique ring that is beautifully designed to represent their Celtic heritage , then a Celtic wedding ring is the perfect choice. Celtic wedding rings and Celtic Engagement Rings are steeped in history and romance. These traditional Irish rings feature intricate Celtic knot designs and have a way of capturing attention.

What is a Celtic Wedding Ring?

Celtic wedding ring design usually showcases a Celtic Knot. Their are many types of Celtic knots but they all symbolize the unending love that binds two people together in marriage and through life.

What Is a Celtic Engagement Ring?

A Celtic engagement ring is inspired by ancient Celtic designs that have meaning behind them. They come in a variety of different designs, the most popular styles being the Claddagh, Trinity Knot, and Celtic Knot.

Celtic Trinity Knot Black Titanium Ring

Celtic wedding rings are symbolic of eternal love and loyalty, are a stylishly captivating wedding that represent both faith and commitment. On that special wedding day, or commitment ceremony their is no better means of expressing your love for one other than an authentic Celtic wedding band. These wedding bands are be a beautiful statement of both love and heritage steeped in symbolism and tradition.

“Celtic wedding band design incorporates tradition Celtic knots and symbols with traditional wedding band elements like comfort fit design, milgrain and roping to express everlasting love,” says jewelry designer Jennifer Derrig. “The difference is really in the sentiment of the band design elements and how they incorporate a more unique style of design the claddagh.”

Celtic Wedding Rings

History of Celtic Wedding Rings

Celtic engagement rings and Celtic wedding rings have been used for over 300 years, and every style has its own unique meaning depending on the type of Celtic knot or symbol used in the wedding ring. “Irish tradition and folklore tells of the first Celtic ring, called a Claddagh ring from the Irish fishing village called the Claddagh, Ireland.” Derrig says. During the mid-nineteenth century Claddagh rings gained popularity outside of Ireland when the Irish migrated during the great famine. The Celtic ring also gained royal status when nobility such as Queen Victoria was seen wearing one.

Can Both Men and Women Wear Celtic Wedding Bands?

The answer is absolutely. Celtic wedding rings are often purchased in wedding rings. Wedding ring sets are two rings usually the same ring purchased in two varying sizes and widths for the couple. Women’s wedding rings such as the claddagh are often treasured family heirlooms and are passed down from mother to daughter for generations. Each men’s wedding ring style has its own unique meaning depending of the knot design. For example, wedding bands with Celtic knots represent eternity and everlasting love.

Celtic Engagement Rings

Popular Celtic Wedding Ring Styles

  • Claddagh Wedding Ring: The Claddagh wedding ring in gold is a symbol of Love, Loyalty and Friendship. A Claddagh wedding ring is not just for the Irish anymore. Choose to engrave your gold Claddagh wedding ring for an extra special touch.
  • Trinity Knot Wedding Rings: Sometimes called the Celtic Trinity Knot, or Love Knot or Celtic triquetra holds many meanings it is known to represent the balance between the body, mind, and the spirit. The trinity knot or triquetra design is raised with black enamel in the recessed area to highlight the details. A Gold Trinity Knot Wedding Ring is the perfect wedding ring for any Celtic couple.
  • Celtic Lovers Knot Wedding Ring: The Celtic Lovers Knot, also known as the Anam Cara Knot (derived from the Irish words that mean “soul friend”, from Celtic wisdom), is a relatively new addition to the Celtic knot family. Celtic Lovers Knot ring is a modern twist on the traditional Celtic knot.
  • Irish Wedding Ring: The Irish Wedding Band in 14K gold has a shamrock center accented by a pattern of interlinking Celtic knots around the entire band. The wedding band combines the shamrock, the traditional associated with Ireland and the Celtic knot that represents eternity and continuity is brilliant.

As an affordable option consider wedding rings in an alternative metal, sterling silver, or in a mixed metal version such as two toned silver and 10K gold. Celtic wedding rings like most wedding rings are also available in your choice of karat gold and color such as yellow, white or rose gold as well.

Wedding Ring Purchasing Tip
Celtic Jewelry, Celtic Knot Meanings, Irish Jewelry

The Meaning of the Celtic Triskele Wedding Ring

Kierand LLC

The Celtic Triskele Wedding Ring in 14K gold is inspired by the wonderful illustrations from the Book of Kells. This is a superior quality ring, with exquisite embossing and intricate Celtic triskele pattern flows seamlessly around the entire band. This is a great unisex Celtic Triskele Wedding Ring is made in comfort fit with a lovely soft dome shape. This is a ring that you would be proud to wear on your wedding day and made to last a lifetime.

Celtic Triskele Wedding Ring by The Irish Jewelry Company

What is the Book of Kells?

The Book of Kells, an ancient 9th-century gospel manuscript famous throughout the world. The book is on display at Trinity College in the center of Ireland’s capital city, Dublin. It is a beautiful piece of Celtic artwork.

What is the meaning of the triskele?

Triskele Symbol The Triskele symbol, otherwise known as the Triskelion, is a trilateral symbol consisting of three interlocked spirals. Widely regarded as one of the oldest Irish symbols in existence, it appears on the Newgrange stones, which date from approximately 3200 BC.

What is the meaning if the Triskele?

The meaning of the triskele is diverse and also has many possibilities. This Celtic symbol is far more complex than others and has much prominence in modern day Celtic jewelry. This gorgeous Celtic Triskele Wedding Ring is perfect for any wedding ceremony and represents no beginning and no ending.

Celtic Jewelry, Celtic Knot Meanings, Irish Jewelry, Irish Wedding Traditions

The Trinity Knot: A Celtic Symbol of Love

Kierand LLC
happy wedding, bride and groom together

How the Celtic Trinity Knot Became a Modern Symbol of Love for All

The trinity knot is a Celtic and early Christian symbol unity and eternity that has evolved into a modern symbol of love everlasting. During the Celtic Revival in the 1800s the unending knot, or triquetra over time become a romantic symbol of never ending and eternal love, that can transcend time.

The Trinity knot has become a central feature in many wedding inspired by Celtic tradition. Often the symbol is displayed with Trinity Knot wedding rings and on wedding invitations. The importance of representing ancestral links to Ireland, Irish culture through symbols like the Trinity Knot reflect couples feelings about their marriage and their roots. Its a way to display their Celtic connection, love, faith, on their spectacular day.

The Trinity Knot is a Symbol of Eternal Love

The Celtic trinity knot is an unending knot that cannot be untied. Trinity Knots are symbol of eternity, faith, love and commitment worldwide. Many couples incorporate the Trinity Knot not just in their wedding rings, and throughout their wedding ceremonies. Trinity Knots are treasured symbols making them the perfect Celtic theme weddings, and of course Celtic wedding bands.

Celtic Trinity Diamond Band

Many couples view the Trinity Knot as a representation of their Past, Present, and Future echoing the Celts beliefs and importance of the triquetra . A Trinity knot wedding ring beautifully displays a couples future joined together in their wedding vow to love, honor, and protect each other for eternity.

Celtic Jewelry, Celtic Knot Meanings, Irish Jewelry, Irish Wedding Traditions

The Trinity Knot: Find out its Origin and Meaning

Kierand LLC

So in order to understand what is a triquetra or trinity knot you must know the meaning and origins. The Celtic trinity knot is also known as a trefoil knot, or a triquetra. It is an iconic Celtic knot symbol has three interconnected “leaves” creating a knot that can’t be untied. So what does the triquetra or trinity knot actual mean. This popular Celtic knot design has been adopted by various cultures through time such as Christians, Pagans and inspired lovers alike!

Diamond Trinity Heart Pendant

The Origin of the Trinity Knot Design

This history of the trinity knot including its origins and meaning of is complicated! Its exact mysterious origins and meanings have been lost through time. Scholars and archaeologists agree , the Trinity Knot first appears as a pagan design and used by Celts. It was adopted by early Irish Christians in the 4th century as a symbol of the Holy Trinity.

Trinity Knot Meanings

There are surprisingly multiple meanings of the trinity knot that have developed over time. In modern day Ireland the Trinity or Lovers Knot is a traditional symbol of eternal and enduring love. Irish couples frequently exchange the trinity knot or Irish love knot design in jewelry such as in Trinity knot wedding rings or Irish love knot necklaces to show their love and devotion.

Diamond Trinity Knot Engagement Ring Set

Trinity Knot has multiple meanings. The Trinity knot is also called the Triquetra and is one of the best known symbols in the Celtic Christian church. This beloved Celtic symbol of an eternal knot is used it to demonstrate the important Holy Trinity. The Holy Trinity is the father, son and the holy spirit.

The Celtic Reverence for Three

The unique three “leafed” trefoil shape of the Trinity Knot demonstrates the Celts fascination with the number three. The idea of Trios in the life cycle to the Celts, meaning Birth, Life and Death; Past, Present, and Future; or Earth, Sea, and Sky; meant everything to them. They truly believed everything of importance came in threes and was interconnected.

And so it is safe to say that it would seem the enduring story of the Trinity Knot, its meaning and significance, continues to evolve today. What is true is that the Trinity Knot is what each person makes it with their stories. It can be a treasured family heirloom, a beautiful symbol of love or a symbol of faith.

Celtic Jewelry, Irish Jewelry, Irish Traditions, Irish Wedding Traditions

5 Irish Wedding Traditions to Inspire Your Ceremony

Kierand LLC

“If you wed in bleak November, only joy will come, remember. When December’s rain fall fast, marry and true love will last.”

These lines are from an old Irish wedding song and are part of a rich history of Irish wedding traditions and lore.

If you or your partner have Irish heritage you may be looking for a way to honor your culture on your wedding day. And while some of the older traditions are long gone, some Celtic wedding traditions have been featured in modern weddings all over the world.

Here are 5 Irish wedding traditions to consider for your upcoming wedding.

1. Irish Wedding Bands

Traditional Irish wedding bands often feature the Claddagh symbol, Celtic knotwork, or the Celtic trinity. These symbols have a meaningful history in Ireland and Irish jewelry.

The Claddagh ring symbolizes love, loyalty, and friendship. Celtic knotwork represents eternal love and friendship. The Celtic trinity is thought to represent earth, air, and water or life, death, and rebirth. 

You can find men’s wedding bands and women’s wedding bands to honor your Irish heritage and symbolize your love and devotion to one another. 

2. Irish Wedding Dress

Many modern Irish brides decide to wear traditional wedding dresses. But the last stitch of the dress is completed or added on the day of the wedding for good luck. And some brides choose to have a horseshoe pattern sewn into the dress for good luck too.

3. Irish Wedding Vows

In ancient Celtic weddings, couples would recite vows over a stone representing the strength and permanence of their devotion.

Modern Irish weddings use a stone or rock blessed by the wedding officiant. Couples keep the stone as a symbol and reminder of their wedding vows. 

4. Irish Wedding Blessings

Irish wedding blessings and prayers are a nice way to incorporate your heritage into the wedding ceremony. Many of the blessings come from the Celtic tradition.

The blessings can be a single line, such as “May the blessings of each day be the blessings you need most” or longer form, “May love and laughter light your days and warm your heart and home. May good and faithful friends be yours, wherever you may roam. May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures. May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours!”

Consider adding a Celtic prayer or wedding blessing to your ceremony or reception toasts.

5. The Ring Warming Ceremony

A ring warming ceremony involves passing your wedding rings around to your wedding guests to have them give their “Irish” blessings, prayers, and warm thoughts of good luck for your marriage.

The origins of the ceremony can be traced back to Ireland, where the bride and the groom have guests pass their wedding rings around to give a blessing, prayer, or wish to the couple with it before they exchange their vows.

Irish Wedding Traditions 

A wedding is a celebration of two people vowing to love and care for each other for life. It’s a time to celebrate friendship, family, and tradition. And if you or your partner want to honor your Irish heritage, consider the Irish wedding traditions above.

If you are looking for wedding rings or other Irish jewelry for your special day, take a look at our collection of authentic Irish jewelry.

Celtic Jewelry, Irish Jewelry, Jewelry Care

The Average Ring Size for Men & Women

Kierand LLC

Consumers often asked what is the average, or normal ring size for a woman? I guess this is because men most often are the purchasers of rings for their partners. Especially when purchasing engagement rings and Celtic wedding band sets. Typically your engagement and wedding rings will likely become your most frequently worn rings your life, so getting the right fit is paramount. Jewelers may see a huge diversity of sizes in orders from customers around the world. However typically in the US that the average ring size for women is Size 7 and the average ring size for men is Size 10.

Closeup of woman checking ring size of female hand in jewelry shop. Woman trying a ring size gauge on her client’s ring finger.

Average Ring Size for Men is a Size 10

“In my years of experience designing jewelry I find most common men’s ring sizes will vary from 9 to 12 but hover closer to size 10 the average ring size for men. ” says Jennifer Derrig, the founder and designer of Celtic Wedding Band Collection by The Irish Jewelry Company. Size 10 is what she stocks as the average “stock” size for men. Men’s wedding rings tend to be wider then women’s around 5mm to 8mm on average. Therefore, when purchasing a wider wedding band like a mens wedding ring sometimes the customer will need a larger size to enable them to easily get the ring on and off each day.

Average Ring size for Women is a Size 7

The average size ring for a woman is a size seven. “Depending on customers lifestyle, and life experiences I personally find that most women tend to fluctuate in weight, and ring size. Fingers can also swell in warm weather so keep that in mind when sizing your finger.” I always recommend taking your favorite ring with you to the jeweler so they determine your size, proportions and the comfort and fit you are looking for Celtic wedding bands or Claddagh engagement ring. And remember a wider band will always fit a little tighter and snugger. 

Can You Guess a Ring Size by Height or Weight?

Unfortunately, no, not really. Hands just like people vary in shape and size and in different climates. Even your own ring size can even fluctuate depending on what hand you measure, the temperature outside, the time of day etc. And then there is is the obvious cause of ring size fluctuation lose or gain of weight! It is helpful to know what the average ring size you wear is when sizing for yourself.

Ring Size Chart : International Ring Size Conversation Chart

ring size conversion chart for International ring size

Other Factors to Consider when Determining a Ring Size

The overall shape of the ring figure is is a big factor to consider. The shape of a finger plays a critical role in choosing a ring size and it is even important when factoring the size and the shape of your diamond for engagement rings. When sizing, it is crucial to size your ring based on your knuckle size. Basically if you have large knuckles, you’ll need a ring to comfortably slide over your knuckle without any issue and be snug enough that it never falls off during normal wear. For long, slender fingers, a wider wedding band might ensure that you have a snug-fitting ring.

Printable Ring Sizer

ringer sizer
Celtic Jewelry, Claddagh Rings, Irish Jewelry

Claddagh Ring : The Rules and Meaning of the Claddagh Tradition Explained

Kierand LLC

To say that there are plenty of superstitions and myths surrounding the Claddagh ring is an understatement. Throughout the past 15 years as the leading Claddagh Ring jeweler online we have heard every question about the Claddagh ring meaning from our customers. We at The Irish Jewelry Company have compiled the top questions asked about the Claddagh and how to wear the Claddagh ring.

So if you are curious about the origins of the Claddagh, its traditions and superstitions then by all means please read on.

Were Did the Claddagh Originate?

The Claddagh Ring legend originated in the West of Ireland in a tiny fishing village named Claddagh in County Galway.

Panorama of the Claddagh in Galway city, Ireland.

The name of the town “Claddagh” is actually the anglicized Gaelic, or Irish, for “Cladach” which means in Irish “seashore”. Completely appropriate for a beautiful fishing village on the coast of Ireland.

Legends says the first Claddagh was given as a wedding ring the Claddagh ring can be given to anyone for multiple reason both sentimental and romantic.

What is the significance of a Claddagh Ring?

The Claddagh ring tradition hold great significance to the Irish culture. The Claddagh is a symbol of friendship, love and loyalty. It has become synonymous with Ireland and demonstrates the romantic side of the Irish people.

Can a non Irish person wear a Claddagh Ring?

You don’t have to be Irish to wear a Claddagh ring. We have thousands of diverse customers from around the world who have happily purchased Claddaghs. The symbolism of the Claddagh meaning of friendship, love and loyalty brings happiness and joy to the recipient that transcends the world.

Can you Wear a Claddagh Ring if You Are Single?

Yes , you can absolutely wear an Irish Claddagh ring if you are single. The “rule” on how to wear a Claddagh ring clearly demonstrates a way to wear your Claddagh ring to represent your relationship status as single. Its like subtle sign to any would be suitors that says I’m available. So whether your Claddagh was a self purchase, given as a gift by a close friend or family member, the way you wear it is ultimately up to you .Just enjoy your Claddagh ring.

Is it bad luck to buy yourself a Claddagh Ring?

It is in no way bad luck to buy yourself a Claddagh ring. Not at all! People often choose to purchase Claddagh rings for themselves while on vacation especially visiting Ireland. We have even had customers purchase one like setting goal and a reminder that they hope to visit Ireland one day. Many customers purchase Claddagh rings as a symbol of Irish pride and heritage.

Celtic Jewelry, Celtic Legends, Irish Jewelry, Irish Traditions, Irish Wit & Wisdom, St. Valentine's Day

The Romantic Translation of Mo Anam Cara: Pronunciation and Meaning of Mo Anam Cara

Kierand LLC

Mo Anam Cara translates loosely as “My Soul Mate” or “My Soul Friend“

Many people believe that the phrase Mo Anam Cara is translates to ‘my soul mate‘ but its accurately translates as ‘my soul friend‘ as anam is the Gaelic word for soul and cara the Gaelic word for friend.

How do you pronounce Mo Anam Cara and Anam Cara?

Mo Anam Cara is pronounced (muh aun-im-KAHR-ah) .

Anam Cara or Anamchara is pronounced (aun-im-KAHR-ah]

The ancient Celts believed in a soul that radiated about the body. They believed that when two individuals formed a deep and lasting bond that their souls would mingle. Therefore, each person could be said to have found their “anam cara“, or “soul friend“.

What does Anam Cara mean?

Anam is Gaelic for ‘soul’, and cara is Gaelic for ‘friend’. To say ‘my soul friend’ you would say ‘mo anam cara.’ The phrase comes from the Celtic belief that souls can be connected spiritually, and can create a strong bond. Anam cara can be used to describe a friendship and a love between family, friends and partners.

It is said that there is a Celtic belief that when two souls share a unique connection they are stronger together than they are apart.

There is an existing compound word known as anamchara that literally means “soul friend.” But this really doesn’t work as “soulmate” in either definition.

Anamchara is traditionally used to refer to one’s confessor or spiritual advisor.  Originally, it was used to refer to the spiritual advisor a young monk would be assigned when he joined the monastery.

Mo Anam Cara Trinity Band by The Irish Jewelry Company

Mo Anam Cara Jewelry

Aran Infinity Claddagh Ring

Mo Anam Cara jewelry is featured in a variety of jewelry styles such Irish rings, pendants, bracelets, and brooches in various precious metals such as Gold and Silver. It is also since as an inscription on or hidden as a romantic message inside claddagh rings and Celtic wedding bands. Mo Anam Cara jewelry makes an ideal gift for that very special person in your life.