Did The Celts Wear Rings?
The Celts have a lengthy and fascinating history that is woven through time. They were known for wearing brightly colored, embroidered garments and lots of jewelry. The Celts had a love for making their jewelry and showed it by wearing neck ornaments in gold and silver, arm adornments, brooches, and rings.
In fact, the most recognizable ring of the Celts is the Claddagh design. This design has an interesting story all its own and paves the way for understanding more about Celtic rings.
Celtic Ring Origins
Celtic rings were first noted about 300 years ago in an Irish fishing community called Claddagh, a name that means ‘flat stony shore.’ These first rings were crafted from gold with an intricate design of two hands coming together to hold a heart in the center. A crown was fitted over the heart.
The ring is said to represent friendship, love, and loyalty. The hands joining together are the symbol of this unified friendship, while the heart, as always, represents love. The crown is the symbol of loyalty.
The Legend of the First Claddagh Ring
One of the most traditional stories about the origination of Celtic rings, particularly the Claddagh ring, comes from a tale of the past. A man from Galway named Richard Joyce was set to marry an Irish girl in his hometown. However, just a week before the wedding was to occur, he was kidnapped and sold as a slave to a Moorish goldsmith.
It wasn’t all unfortunate, for this servitude allowed him to master goldsmithing. After some years, he created the Claddagh ring design, using his bride-to-be as the inspiration.
Years passed before William III finally ordered freedom for the slaves, and Joyce was free from his master. The goldsmith begged him to stay, offering him some of his fortune and his oldest daughter’s hand in marriage. Joyce declined and hurried back to Galway to find his true love.
She’d never married, and he gave her this first Claddagh ring. He remained in Galway for the rest of his days, using what he learned to become a goldsmith. All of his treasures were inscribed with an anchor as a symbol of hope and the initials R.I. If you’re ever in Galway, you can visit the Galway City Museum to see his works.
What Is the Meaning Behind Celtic Rings?
Every Celtic ring bears a symbol, and its meaning depends on the symbol. However, each Celtic ring is worn as a way to respect this heritage. As Christian influence spread, it became a part of these designs. The Trinity knot is a prime example of this, with three ovals that join in a triangular shape that is said to depict the unity of the Holy Trinity – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Others say it is to represent the past, present, and future. While certainly open to interpretation, one thing remains quite clear – the Celts’ designs carry on the tradition of threes and are incredibly beautiful no matter how you interpret them.
The Enduring Style of Celtic Rings
Celtic rings are now available in an array of designs for both men and women. You can pick one that symbolizes your own hopes and beliefs. A good rule of thumb is to choose one that speaks to you.
The rich folklore and history of the Celtic tribes throughout the centuries have influenced these designs. They tell their own stories and let the wearer decide what ancient mystical powers they may represent. From symbolizing love to protection, you will be carrying on an enduring cultural tradition that has lived on for thousands of years.
In today’s world, it’s important to live in the present. But this tie to the past is something that reminds us of how to move forward into the future, linking our history to every generation that follows.
Where Can You Buy Celtic Rings?
When you buy Celtic rings, you should always look for an authentic source. Their rich ancestry is a powerful legacy that you will leave for future generations in your family. This ensures the history of the Celts will never be forgotten.
Treasures like Celtic rings and other Celtic jewelry items are more than beautiful accessories. They are symbols that can show your love, friendship, or faith, depicted in the form of Claddagh rings, nature, and knotwork.
Shop these items from a place that also cherishes Celtic cultural heritage to be sure that you are getting the best designs. With curated collections of genuine jewelry made from top-quality precious metals and beautiful gemstones, you’ll have the best selection. You can browse the catalog and find the perfect Celtic ring for yourself or someone you love.