The Fenian Claddagh Ring is a version of the Claddagh Ring with two hands holding a heart and no crown was made in Dublin in the 1800’s. It became known as the Fenian Claddagh Ring or the Dublin Claddagh Ring. The Fenian Claddagh belongs to a style of European finger rings called a fede ring used as engagement rings in medieval and Renaissance Europe . The name fede comes from the Italian phrase “mani fede” meaning hands joined in faith.
Mothers Claddagh Ring
The mothers claddagh ring is an unassuming stylized parent and child embrace representative of the Madonna and child combined with a traditional Irish Claddagh is a testament to the enduring bond between a mother, her child, faith and their Irish heritage. The mothers claddagh ring is perfect for any mother, grandmother or new mom.
Birthstone Claddagh Rings
Birthstone Claddagh Rings are brilliant. Choose a birthstone claddagh ring to mark a special occasion like a graduation or anniversary or to express your personal philosophy. Birthstone are gemstones that accompany a specific birth month. Each month has its own unique birthstone and each birthstone has a unique birthstone meaning and historical significance. Birthstone Claddagh Rings are also given as a birthday gifts.Birthstones are precious or semi-precious gemstones, even created gems that are associated with each month. Birthstones are considered lucky for their particular months and for those who believe in such things their healing powers are heightened during these times.
In conclusion, Claddagh rings are a great gift idea for any occasion. Whether it’s a wedding anniversary, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or just because, these rings are perfect for expressing love and affection. Claddagh rings have been worn by lovers for centuries. The first known reference to the ring dates back to the 17th century. The beloved claddagh design has evolved over time, with some variations being more common than others.
Why not send your mother a lovely note in Irish on Mother’s Day, Lá Fhéile an Mháthair – Lá na Máithreacha Sona duit, pronounced “Law na Maw-her-aka Sun-a ditch” – Happy Mother’s Day!
The affection and gratitude we have for our moms and grandparents is something we feel on a daily basis. However, it should come as no surprise that the practice of designating a particular day has spread throughout the world. Harnessing the power of Mother’s Day affords an opportunity to demonstrate our love and thanks to our mothers by informing them of our appreciation and showering them with cards and exquisite Celtic jewelry presents from The Irish Jewelry Company.
Whether she is a new mother learning the ropes of parenthood, someone who proudly adorns her children or grandchildren, a cornerstone of the family, or a modern-day Warrior Queen, she is a woman of strength and determination.
The Claddagh pendant incorporates the image of a mother and child, which is at the heart of the design. The Mothers Chaddagh Necklace is available in two variations: pure silver or a mix of rose gold and silver. The heart Claddagh pattern in gorgeous rose gold is a magnificent representation of maternal love, as expressed eloquently in an old Irish saying –
“A Mother holds her children’s hands for a little while… their hearts forever.”
For a Mother or Grandmother Who is Devoted to Her Children or Grandchildren
Our gorgeous Claddagh Family Birthstone Pendant may be customized for any mother or grandmother, with the birthstones of her children or grand-kids, and even the birthstones of her great grandchildren. This wonderful personalized birthstone necklace may be customized with up to ten different birthstones. Depending on the chain.
Throughout time, gemstones have been connected with certain religious and cultural practices. After World War II, diamonds gained popular as engagement rings, although an Emerald or Ruby as an anniversary gift has been around since the Middle Ages. Over the years, the rituals and reasons for giving gemstones or birthstones or birthstone jewelry on birthdays have evolved, but one tradition has remained constant: the giving of jewels to loved ones.
The Origins of the Birthstone
An official birthstone is a gemstone that is associated with a certain month of the Gregorian calendar. According to academics, the practice originated in either Poland or Germany, however it is now widely recognized around the world. The custom of birthstones may be traced all the way back to the Bible in Western civilization, according to historians. Gemstones have traditionally been connected with the Chinese zodiac and astrology, and this association continues today. During the Middle Ages, the fusion of Eastern and Western traditions began to take place. It was customary to wear a certain gem stone for a specific month, which gradually evolved to indicate a stone related with the month of one’s birth. Strangely enough, it was not until the twentieth century that organizations such as the Jewelers of America and the British National Association of Geologists formally established their own lists of birthstones.
January Birthstone – Garnet is thought to symbolize faith, fidelity, and truth. It is traditionally a second anniversary gift.
February Birthstone – Amethyst is thought to symbolizing royalty, sincerity and strength.
March Birthstone – Aquamarine is a symbol of contentment and eternal youth.
April Birthstone – Diamond is a girl’s best friend and a symbol of loyalty. It is traditionally given as a tenth anniversary gift.
May Birthstone – Emerald is believed to promote intellect and integrity. This gemstone is given for twentieth and thirty-fifth anniversaries.
June Birthstone – Alexandrite is thought to be both unbreakably strong and to increases self-esteem.
July Birthstone – Ruby is believed to preserve mental health controlling passionate desires, and reconciling disputes. It is traditionally given for the fourteenth and fifteenth anniversary.
August Birthstone – Peridot is thought to provide protection, health, and to attract love. It is traditionally given for the sixteenth anniversary.
September Birthstone – Sapphire it is said to provide its wearer with spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. The gem of destiny is given as a fifth anniversary gift.
November Birthstone – Citrine is believed to symbolize lightheartedness and joy.
December Birthstone – Blue Topaz legend says that it dispels all enchantment and helps to improve eyesight. It is the anniversary gemstone for the 4th year of marriage.
Giving someone a piece of birthstone jewelry is a kind and meaningful gesture. It demonstrates thoughtfulness and attention to detail, which, when combined with our handcrafted Irish workmanship, is guaranteed to wow your guests.
Patrick’s given name was Maewyn when he was born. He was born in the Roman Empire in Britain. At the tender age of 16, he was abducted and sold into slavery in Africa, before being transported to Ireland.
Saint Patrick was a Slave
His flight resulted in his conversion to Christianity in a monastery in Gaul (France). In 432, he returned to Ireland to serve as a missionary. While Christianity had already gained a foothold in the nation, legend has it that Patrick faced the Druids in Tara and forced them to abandon their pagan practices, so spreading Christianity even farther.
When the Irish immigrated to the United States, they established the larger festivities and parades that are still celebrated today. The earliest St. Patrick’s Day parades were staged in the eighteenth century by Irish troops who had served in the Revolutionary War. After emigrating to the United States, the festivities became a means for the Irish to reconnect with their heritage. Interesting tidbits:
The Shamrock is a Symbol of St. Patrick
According to tradition, St. Patrick used the three leaf clover (also known as the shamrock) to teach the Trinity or the Holy Trinity to the people of Ireland.
Coloring the River Green
The practice of dyeing the river green began in 1962 when municipal authorities in Chicago chose to color a part of the Chicago River green.
The Origins of Corn Beef and Cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day
Corn beef and cabbage is an Irish-American meal that remains popular today. Certain meals were out of reach for Irish Americans or Irish Immigrants since they were so impoverished. Their only option for St. Patrick’s Day dinner was beef and cabbage, which they couldn’t afford. It quickly become a tradition during the occasion. The meal originated on American soil in the late 19th century as Irish immigrants substituted corned beef for bacon, which was meat of choice in the homeland.
As we near the magical Irish celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, it is important to get all your ducks, I mean shamrocks in a row. Because it’s literally time to get your green on folks.
The month of March for many of us has come to mean adorable little leprechaun figurines, delicious fast food minty milkshakes, and festive shamrock house flags are just a few of the Saint Patrick’s Day decorating traditions that are becoming increasingly popular. Not to mention the Irish themed apparel and St. Patrick’s Day jewelry accessories for the holiday. I mean who doesn’t love some Irish jewelry like a great pair of Shamrock Earrings or a sassy Lil’ Irish Devil Shamrock Necklace guaranteed to grab some attention at the party or pub.
But have you ever sat down and pondered why shamrocks? Why are shamrocks associated with St. Patrick’s Day? Are Shamrocks as lucky as four-leaf clovers are?
Despite the fact that many of us have been seeing shamrocks or clovers in our backyards and sidewalks or have made some related shamrock craft since childhood during the month of March for St. Patrick’s Day we dont know why? Many have spent their whole lives without giving shamrock meaning much thought, and dont know the origins of the shamrock. So here’s the truth on shamrocks and Saint Patrick’s Day.
What exactly are shamrocks?
Shamrocks are a three-leaf clover, a very common version of the clover. As a matter of fact, the name “shamrock” derives from the Irish word “seamróg,”. The Irish word seamróg, which is the diminutive of the Irish word seamair óg and simply means “young clover”. The only difference between a shamrock and a four-leaf clover is that one leaf is missing from the latter. Four-leaf clovers, on the other hand, are very unusual, with just one in every 10,000 clovers having four leaves. So if you happen to come upon one, you’re considered lucky.
It is said that shamrocks represent St. Patrick’s Day because St. Patrick was a Christian missionary who used a clover to teach the Holy Trinity of Christianity, which is composed of three persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit (also known as the trinity of God). He said that the three leaves represent the three divine entities, and that the stem represents the way in which they are unified into one.
The shamrock was also adopted as an emblem of St. Patrick, who was eventually designated as the patron saint of Ireland. As part of their celebration of St. Patrick’s Day in 1681, people began pinning a shamrock to their clothing, a practice that has survived to this day – not only in Ireland, but throughout the whole world. And, because shamrocks are green, people ultimately began to dress in green on St. Patrick’s Day to celebrate the holiday.
Discover the fascinating history of the ancient Celtic Tree of Life emblem, as well as the uplifting message of regeneration and renewal it contains. The emblem may be found throughout Celtic history, religion, and cultural traditions. The meaning of the Tree of Life is considered to signify equilibrium and harmony. The Ancient Celts referred to the Tree of Life as crann bethadh, and they thought that it had magical properties.
Discover the Ancient Celts
The Celts arrived in Ireland in 500 BC, having traveled from central Europe. The Celtic civilization of Ireland had spread to every part of the island in a matter of a few hundred years. The Celts ruled Ireland from roughly 400AD until the introduction of Christianity in the country. Despite the fact that more than 1500 years have gone since then, their effect on Irish culture is still strong. An incredible amount of artifacts and monuments have survived to the present day, and many Irish people still consider themselves to be of Celtic descent.
What Does the Celtic Tree of Life Represent and What Does It Mean?
A representation of the Celtic Tree of Life may be found in almost every religion and culture in the globe, and its origins can be traced all the way back to ancient Egypt. The Crann Bethadh is the name given to it in Irish. Among the Celts, trees were considered to be of highest significance. The practice of planting an oak tree in the center of a clearing while preparing land for settlement was widespread in the early days of the settlement movement. The tree served as a shelter for the tribe and their animals, as well as a spiritual gathering spot for tribal meetings, according to legend. It also served as a source of fuel for fires and medication. It was seen to be the most severe of crimes to cut down such a tree, and to chop down the tree of an adversary would have been regarded a significant victory. In case you’ve ever wondered why a single oak tree stands alone in the midst of an Irish field, here is the answer.
Overall, the symbolism of the Celtic Tree of Life revolves on the elements of nature coming together to bring about balance and peace. Branches soar upwards to the sky, while roots reach deep into the earth. A picture of the connection between heaven and earth, between mind and body, and the never-ending circle of life is shown here. The Tree of Life was considered by the Celts to be a sign of longevity, knowledge, and power. In fact, they thought that trees were genuine ancestors of mankind and that they served as a portal to the spirit world. Another interpretation is that of rebirth. The tree drops its leaves as the weather becomes colder, then it explodes into life when the approach of Spring is announced.
The Popularity of Celtic Tree of Life Jewelry
The fact that Celtic Tree of Life Jewelry is a sentimental favorite in Celtic design is no surprise given all the positive connotations of rebirth, regeneration, and the endless cycle of life that it conveys. With the Celtic cross and Trinity knot as well as the Tree of Life , it’s easy to see why Celtic Tree of Life Jewelry is a popular option for necklaces and the ideal way to show off your Irish history. A Celtic Tree of Life necklace is a beautiful replica of an old Irish symbol, and it makes a wonderful gift.
We know from the Gaelic spelling of the word that it was originally the claddagh pronounced [klad-ukh] and that it was sounded out with a harsh, guttural finish that is typical to Irish terms when spoken. As a result, the term is now more typically pronounced [klad-uh] without the ‘gaelic touch.’
It is the anglicized version of the Gaelic term ‘Cladach’, which means “seashore” in ancient Irish. Ireland’s old fishing hamlet of Claddagh, whence the ring is called, is the inspiration for its traditional design. After the rocky coastline on which it was constructed, the town received its name.
When searching for a ring to commemorate a particular event such as a birthday, engagement, anniversary, or any significant occasion, consider a claddagh ring, which is also known as an Irish promise ring.
The Celtic Cross is well-known around the globe as a sign of Irish ancestry and tradition. Learn more about the distinguishing characteristics, origin of the Celtic cross , history, applications, symbolism, and significance of these amazing stone monuments by reading the information posted below.
Celtic Crosses are a common sight in the Irish countryside.
On any road drive through the gorgeous Irish countryside, you are certain to come upon a Celtic stone cross somewhere along the way. Celtic crosses may be found in practically every one of Ireland’s 32 counties, and they are considered to be symbols of Ireland and its Irish culture. Beautiful Celtic cross jewelry and other creative arts from both the ancient and current periods have been created to honor these wonderful stone crosses.
The Celtic Cross Has Four Distinctive Characteristics
It is believed that the earliest remaining “high” stone crosses in Ireland date back to the 8th or 12th centuries. The crosses themselves are frequently ornately carved, with the oldest crosses exhibiting knotwork and subsequent crosses adding images from biblical tales and inscriptions, among other things.
Celtic cross at church in Howth, Ireland.
Their presence in the Irish countryside is both spectacular and intimidating. Early Celtic crosses are around eight feet tall, with some later crosses being even higher than that. At an impressive 23 feet in height, the very tallest stands out. There are several distinguishing characteristics of these ancient Celtic Crosses, despite their wide range of appearance, including the following:
The base, which isn’t always available. The cross is usually carved into a pyramid form, however this is not always the case.
In the Shaft, detailed decorations or artwork portraying people are frequently shown in panels that are separated onto all four sides by this divider.
The Cap is usually seen at the very top of the cross’s upper arm, but may be absent altogether.
The Head which is made up of two parts, the center and the limbs. There’s a characteristic ring form on the top of most stone Celtic crosses.
Many people believe that the form of the cross’s head is what distinguishes it as a Celtic cross from other types of crosses. The cross’s structural strength is provided by the ring form, which also serves to support the arms of the cross. The fact that this shape was necessary for earlier, more fragile wooden crosses has led some researchers to believe that it is a continuance of that design.
Various theories have been advanced about the meaning of the ring, such that it portrays a halo or disc form around the head, and that it represents a heavenly sphere, such as the sun, as represented in a 5th century Christian poem Carmen Paschale. Those who believe that the ring and “rivet” shaped carvings on certain early crosses depict the Celtic Shield are among those who disagree. This would combine Christian and Celtic iconography, a strategy that was used by St. Patrick himself, along with early missionaries of the Catholic Church, in their efforts to persuade the Celts towards Christian belief and practices.
It has been suggested by some historians that the fundamental design of these crosses may have been modeled by trees, which the Celts venerated. Early Christian missionaries who arrived in Ireland in the 5th century would have wanted to avoid upsetting the pagan Celts who had been there for thousands of years. By combining significant Christian iconography such as the cross and halo with significant Celtic iconography such as trees and the sun, this new ideology would have been more ‘friendly’ and agreeable, supposedly making it very easy to convert!
What was the purpose of the Celtic Cross?
No one knows for certain why ancient humans began creating such massive stone structures in the first place! What is known is that High Crosses or Celtic Crosses are generally found in or near significant monasteries, which is why they are named such. There is a possibility that they were used to delineate borders or particular areas inside the monastery, with many of them being used for lecturing, learning scriptures, prayer, and penance. The far more ornately carved crosses would have also served as a symbol of the monastery’s riches and power. Many crosses are devoted to a particular event or patron, with some being attributed to notable saints such as St. Patrick or the Irish High Kings.
The Celtic Cross Has a Long and Profound History
The development of Irish stone crosses is supposed to have occurred from slab crosses. Slab crosses, as the name implies, were simply large slabs of stone, generally granite, with crosses cut into the surface of them. Someone, perhaps in the 8th century, came up with the brilliant idea of chiseling away the parts between the cross’s arms, resulting in the creation of the first “Celtic Cross.” The Donagh Cross, also known as St. Patrick’s Cross, is located near Carndonagh, Donegal, and is believed to be one of the earliest free-standing stone crosses still standing in Ireland. A church or monastery is said to have been established here in the fifth century by Saint Patrick and Irish missionaries, according to local legend.
St. Patrick’s Cross is wonderfully ornamented with Christian imagery as well as Celtic artwork, suggesting that it was constructed very recently. This design comprises interlacing knotwork patterns that are comparable to those found in The Book of Durrow, which represent the Tree of Life. Christian iconography displays Jesus in a triumphant attitude near to the bottom of the crucifixion’s shaft, instead of suffering on the cross, which is supposed to represent eternal life in Christ, instead of having suffered on the cross.
The Celtic Cross Has Changed Over Time
Celtic “High” Crosses are standalone stone crosses that originate from the 8th to the 12th centuries. Most of the earliest crosses from this time period have arms that do not reach beyond the ring, with decorative patterns that are often portraying ancient pagan symbols and geometric motifs. Later crosses from this time are often bigger and adorned with biblical iconography. Because they became border or territory markers after the 12th century, they are now often alluded to as Celtic Crosses instead of “High crosses,” despite the fact that many of them are indeed extremely tall!
During the “Celtic Revival,” finely carved crosses and a reintroduction with geometric patterns were popular ways to denote graves and monuments in the 18th Century. Any Irish person worth their weight would absolutely not go anywhere without a Celtic Cross visible on his or her person! Since then, the Celtic Cross as a symbol has spread farther than monastic sites and graveyards, appearing on contemporary emblems, clothing, accessories, tattoo designs, and, of course, Celtic jewelry. The Celtic cross necklace has become widely recognized throughout the entire globe as a symbol of Ireland and its people.
The Irish Jewelry Company offers Celtic Cross Pendants in a variety of designs.
So, how do you say “I love you” in Irish? A word-for-word translation is not the most practical method of expressing your affection. Learning a few words and phrases rather than translating them is a lot simpler and more efficient method.
It may take some time to master the Irish pronunciation of the phrase “I love you.” It’s possible to modify the sound of Irish letters by the letters adjacent to them, since many letters in the language are silent. The good news is that each sentence is followed by an explanation of how to pronounce it.
Is tú mo grá (pronounced Is too moh graw) – This translates as ‘you are my love’ Word for word, it is ‘are you my love,’ but it is not a question. Irish puts the verb first in the sentence.
Tá grá agam duit (pronounced taw graw agum dweet) – The exact meaning of this phrase is ‘I have love for you.’ Gra is the Irish word for love.
Tá mo chroí istigh ionat (pronounced taw moh kree ish-tig un-at) – This very romantic phrase literally means ‘my heart is in you’.
Is tú mo chuisle (pronounced is too moh coosh-lah) – Another anatomical phrase, this means ‘you are my pulse’. Fans of the film ‘Million Dollar Baby’ might remember the phrase ‘mo chuisle’ from the movie.
Táim i ngrá leat (pronounced tame ee n-graw leat. Leat rhymes with eat) – This one means ‘I am in love with you.’
Mo chroí (moh kree)– my heart or Is tú mo ghrá (Iss too mu graw) “You are my love” is as close as we come to saying “I love you” and is a lovely phrase that would work well as a thoughtful engraving
Mo anam cara (moh anum cair-ah) – my soulmate. This phrase means “My Soul Mate” or “My Soul Friend.” The ancient Celts thought there was a soul that spread out over the body. When two people formed a strong bond, their souls would mix and each person could be called their “anam cara,” or “soul friend.” This beautiful phrase was the source of our Mo Anam Cara Jewelry.
Portrait of girl holding red paper heart isolated on white background
Valentine’s Day is almost here! Not sure what to get that special someone in your life? Or maybe you just want to spoil yourself?
Or perhaps you’re wondering what to get for Valentine’s Day last-minute? We’ve put together a list of some pretty cool gifts for him and her to inspire you!
If you want to go all out for Valentine’s Day, consider mixing one of our Celtic jewelry gifts with an experience or special memory.
On Valentine’s Day, give her this Celtic Heartbeat Necklace and tell her she makes your heart skip a beat. Extra points for creativity we promise!
Now if these creative and romantic ideas don’t work for you this Valentine’s Day you can always take a more traditional Celtic jewelry approach to Valentine’s Day gift giving.
Nothing says I love you on Valentine’s Day like a Celtic Love Knot also known as a Trinity Knot. We have a huge selection of Trinity Knot necklaces but our Diamond Trinity Knot Necklace is perfect for that special someone.
Now if none of these beautiful pieces of Celtic jewelry do the trick to convey your enduring love to your Valentine then there is always the home run piece of Celtic jewelry, the Claddagh ring. Now the claddagh ring is a time honored tradition of promising ones eternal friendship, love and loyalty. Shop our huge selection of Claddagh Rings available in a variety of claddagh designs to meet any budget needs.
