Even though February is in the middle of winter and can be rather chilly, it is still the month to show love to one another. The birthstone for February is amethyst, which stands for the love and passion of the season. Amethyst, the February birthstone, is a type of quartz that is purple. It is claimed to keep one from becoming intoxicated and makes one more quick-witted in the workplace. The term amethyst originates from the Greek word “amethystos,” which translates to “not inebriated.” The amethyst gemstone is associated with healing and calmness.
Gemstones made of amethyst are renowned for the stunning array of purple tones that they can display. The amethyst color pallet consists of a wide range of purple hues, from delicate lilacs to charming violets and even powerful royal purples. Citrine, the birthstone for November, is a member of the quartz family, whereas amethyst is a type of quartz. There is an interesting combination of amethyst and citrine that is called ametrine, and it may be found in nature. The hue of ametrine is a blending of the characteristic purple of amethyst with the golden sheen of citrine.
The Amethyst Throughout History
Gemstones have been held in high regard by illustrious communities and civilizations for a very long time, making them the subject of a great number of stories and myths. In the past, amethyst was mostly exported from Russia; however, nowadays, this gemstone is primarily extracted from mines in both South America and Africa.
So why is amethyst so special and how it became the February birthstone?
Amethyst was connected with Bacchus, the Roman deity of wine, by the Romans. However, it was said that Saint Valentine, the patron Saint of love whose Feast day is in February, wore an amethyst ring with a sculpted Cupid on it. The amethyst sits atop the Sovereign’s Sceptre with a Cross, which is part of England’s Crown Jewels collection. On the other hand, tarot cards and psychic readings frequently make use of amethyst.
Gemstones made of amethyst are prone to shattering when subjected to unexpected shifts in temperature, and they run the danger of losing their color when subjected to high temperatures. Since amethyst can lose its color if it is exposed to light, you should always keep your amethyst birthstone jewelry in a dark place while it is not being worn.
Amethysts, like the majority of precious stones, should be kept in a separate location so that they do not scrape each other or become scratched. Keep the components in a box with a lining or in a soft pouch. The best way to maintain the luster of your amethyst birthstone jewelry is to clean it with a gentle cleanser under warm running water.
Go Shopping for Some Amethyst Jewelry
Amethyst is the birthstone for February, so be sure to look for jewelry featuring this gem. This lovely, lilac gemstone sparkles with sterling silver and gold with a cool tone, and it is appropriate for royalty when set in settings that also contain accent stones all around it. We have an outstanding assortment of amethyst necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings that you can shop through to discover the perfect piece of amethyst jewelry to complement your unique sense of style.
The essence of carefree romance is captured in our Claddagh Birthstone Ring in sparkling CZ and sterling silver setting to represent February’s birthstone. Explore the dazzling amethyst birthstone rings that are available.
The art of storytelling as well as the Irish language has a long and storied history in the country of Ireland. The best example of this is seen in Irish proverbs and their meaning. This is the result of a confluence of events, the first of which is that our one-of-a-kind language, which was in use a very long time before the English language was developed, has demonstrated the significance of preserving one’s customs and culture.
Furthermore, prior to the invention of pen and paper, literacy, and television, the most popular form of entertainment in Ireland was the telling of stories. And last, the Irish people are known for their inherent sociability and friendliness, and they like nothing more than having a nice conversation.
Over the course of our lives, the confluence of all of these factors has resulted in a natural facility with language. Many of the most well-known authors in the history of the globe were of Irish descent; James Joyce and Oscar Wilde are just two particularly outstanding examples. Additionally, the Irish are credited with having coined a whole lexicon’s worth of idioms, Irish sayings, and Irish proverbs. If there is one thing that humans are particularly skilled at, it is the ability to devise the ideal proverb to fit any given circumstance.
Even though they are hundreds of years old, many of them are as relevant as ever today. Others appear to be more archaic and antiquated when contrasted with contemporary culture, and of course, there are those that just don’t make much sense regardless of the period in which they are spoken or the circumstances around them!
The following is a collection of our favorite old Irish proverbs. There’s a saying for every situation! Our Irish Proverb Affirmation Bracelets are inspirational. Live the Celtic life you have created. Live the life you love, and inspire the relationships and friendships that you cherish. Do what you are passionate about and practice what you preach. The life of the Irish is to be enjoyed, not endured. And these truthful short and pithy Irish sayings are the proof. So, follow your Celtic spirit and dreams, be open to new beginnings, and live life the way you love.
Two thirds of help is to give courage – Irish Proverb – means words of inspiration can go far.
The best horse doesn’t always win the race – Irish Proverb – means a horse with conditions to suit the day will always be the most likely winner.
It’s easy to half the potato where there is love – Irish Proverb – means when you are in love you will share everything together.
It takes time to build castles – Irish Proverb – means hard work and planning will reap rewards eventually.
No man is wise at all times – Irish Proverb – means everyone makes mistakes
Fierceness is often hidden under beauty – Irish Proverb – means don’t let looks deceive you.
May hinges of our friendship never go rusty – Irish Proverb – means may your bonds of friendship never break.
If God shuts one door he opens another – Irish Proverb – means that if one thing you do fails, you will soon have an opportunity to try to succeed at something else.
Idleness is the desire of a fool – Irish Proverb – means knowing the right thing to do and failing to do it persistently.
Wisdom exceeds strength – Irish Proverb – means a wise man is strong. A man of knowledge gains in strength.
Patience can conquer destiny – Irish Proverb – means good things come to those who wait.
If you don’t know the way walk slowly – Irish Proverb – means keep pushing towards your goal, one day, you will achieve it.
Learn birthstones and their characteristics, applications, and significance of the gemstones that are customarily considered to be the “birthstones” for each of the twelve months that make up the calendar.
Traditions and Precious Stones
Diamonds have come to be associated with engagements as well as ten-year wedding anniversaries; emeralds have grown to be associated with twenty-year wedding anniversaries; and rubies have become associated with fortieth wedding anniversaries for passionate couples. The tradition of giving birthstones in the form in which we are familiar with them now is one that originated relatively recently but has deep historical roots.
Traditions Regarding Birthstones
It is possible to trace the history of birthstones all the way back to the period of the Bible. However, incorporating them in jewelry is a charming new tradition that only goes back a few hundred years. This shows how quickly fashion can change.
Within the context of this custom, each stone is meant to stand for a distinct month according to the Gregorian calendar. It is believed that Poland or Germany was the place of origin for this tradition; nevertheless, it has since spread all over the world, and our lovely Birthstone collection features some of the most well-liked present options available.
It is not hard to understand why this is the case. These are beautifully personal pieces of jewelry since they may be customized to order to reflect either your own birthday or the birthday of someone you care about.
January Birthstone:
Garnet is the January birthstone, and it is the most common gemstone linked with the month. It is an extremely hard stone that is coveted for its dark hue, which is most commonly an intense shade of purple or red; however, the stone’s color can also be orange or even green. This magnificent stone has been used in jewelry for thousands of years, beginning with the Ancient Egyptians, who set garnets in rings and used them for complex inlay. Garnets have a stunning brilliance, which may sometimes be compared to that of diamonds.
Amethyst, the February birthstone, is another type of stone that is exceptionally tough, making it well-suited for use in jewelry. It is highly valued for the purity and brilliance of its hue, which ranges from a light lilac to a deep purple. They were a favorite of Catherine the Great and the royal families of Egypt, in addition to being used in the British Crown Jewels. Since royalty and power have always been linked with the color purple, amethyst is a fitting choice for anyone seeking a majestic look.
Aquamarine is the March Birthstone. Another type of rock with a very high degree of abrasion resistance is known as aquamarine. It gets its name from the stunning sea-blue hues that can range from light to dark. It has a beautiful vitreous shine and is highly sought after for its coloration. Aquamarine was also traditionally given to the bride on her wedding day to serve as a sign of long-lasting love and unity. This makes it a great choice for “something blue” as well as a nice present for a person born in March.
Diamond is the April Birthstone. Diamond, the most coveted gem in existence, is the traditional birthstone for those who were fortunate enough to be born in the month of April. Diamonds are the most durable of all gemstones and possess a fire and glitter that are second to none. Although most diamonds that are used in jewelry are colorless, diamonds may really be found in a variety of hues, including pink and blue. They were considered to be the tears of the gods by the ancient Greeks.
CZ, also known as cubic zirconia, is a beautiful and eye-catching lab created stone with fabulous sparkle, excellent hardness, and color and clarity comparable to diamond, making it a contemporary favorite. For a variation that is more affordable but equally stunning for this month, consider CZ. Cubic zirconia is a lab created stone that features fabulous sparkle, excellent hardness, and color and clarity comparable to diamond.
Emerald is the May Birthstone. Because of its stunningly gorgeous dark green hue, emerald is often connected with the country of Ireland. The Irish and those fortunate enough to be born in May are not the only ones who value emeralds as precious stones; anybody may appreciate their beauty. It is well known that Cleopatra, the Queen of England, and Elizabeth Taylor all wore and treasured magnificent emerald jewelry. Cleopatra wore it first. The use of emeralds in engagement rings has become increasingly common.
Pearl, Moonstone and Alexandrite are all June Birthstones. Yes you read that correctly. There are not one, not two, but three different birthstones that are associated with the month of June.
The first is not strictly speaking a gemstone, but it has a long history of being associated with the month of June, and lovely pearl jewelry is a customary present for those fortunate enough to be born in June! The second is moonstone, which has been used in jewelry since Roman times. Its origins go back much farther. They thought that moonstone was formed when rays from the moon were consolidated and then cooled. Today, we know that it is a form of feldspar that has a luster that may be described as foggy milky or adularescence. Alexandrite is the third birthstone traditionally linked with the month of June. It was discovered in 1834 and was later given its name after a Russian Czar. Alexandrite, a gemstone that is highly valued for its remarkable ability to change color depending on the light, can shift from green and blue in daylight to purple and red in artificial light. Because of its extreme scarcity, the natural stone has a price that rivals that of a diamond. These days, you’ll be hard-pressed to find it as jewelry anywhere outside of a museum. However, now that there are lab variants that are more cheap, those born in June do not have to go without their genuinely lovely June birthstone.
Peridot is the August Birthstone. Peridot, in its natural state, is a gorgeous green gemstone that originates deep inside the soil and has an exceptional toughness. Volcanoes are responsible for bringing it to the surface, and the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, Pele, is linked to the phenomenon. Even on rare occasions, peridot has been discovered embedded within meteorites. An out-of-this-world option for kids born in August!
Sapphire is the September Birthstone. The gemstone known as sapphire is most commonly seen in a stunning shade of deep blue; however, this very durable stone can actually be found in every color, with the exception of red, which is more commonly found in the form of rubies.
Discovering Sapphire’s many more fascinating mysteries is within your reach. When Prince William proposed to Catherine Middleton in 2010, he famously presented her with a stunning blue sapphire engagement ring that weighed 12 carats and was his mother’s ring. Sapphire is quickly becoming the stone of choice for engagement rings, and it also makes an excellent present for a baby born in September.
Tourmaline is the October Birthstone. Its name, tourmaline, literally translates to “stone of mixed hues,” and it is distinguished from other gems by the rainbow of colors that are often contained inside a single stone. In point of fact, an Egyptian myth states that tourmaline obtained its distinctive hue by traveling through a rainbow on its way up from the heart of the earth.
Topaz also called Citrine is the November Birthstone. Citrine is a gorgeous kind of quartz that can range in color from pale yellow to orange. Citrine gets its name from the citron fruit. It is a hard mineral, and as a result, it is mostly resistant to scratches and the normal wear and tear of everyday life. As a result, it is a great alternative for extremely wearing jewelry, and it is an excellent birthstone for babies born in November.
Blue Topaz is the December Birthstone. Topaz is a hard stone that can also be found in any color of the rainbow, making it a gorgeous choice for jewelry. Blue topaz is one of the rainbow’s colors. There are natural reserves of blue topaz in Texas, and in 1969, the state of Texas and the state of Utah both designated blue topaz as their official gemstone.
The month of December is also commonly connected with turquoise; however, because turquoise is a softer stone, it is more prone to damage. As a result, blue topaz is a magnificent alternative that is also more resistant to damage and is recommended for persons born in December.
The Celtic Triskele Wedding Ring in 14K gold is inspired by the wonderful illustrations from the Book of Kells. This is a superior quality wedding 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
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 the perfect wedding ring for any wedding ceremony and represents no beginning and no ending.
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.
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.
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!
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.
TrinityKnot has multiple meanings. The Trinityknot 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.
Mother’sDay is celebrated every year in the United States on the second Sunday of May. Mothers Day is an international holiday celebrating motherhood. It is the time to appreciate and honor all mothers and mother figures. Family members including their children and grandchildren give Mothers Day gifts, like motherhood jewelry, cards, flowers, candy. The day is often spent dining with family at a restaurant.
It is special occasions like Mothers Day that make gifts such as the Mothers Claddagh even more meaningful and treasured. The Mothers Claddagh jewelry collection represents the eternal bond of friendship, love and loyalty shared between a mother and her child. A mother’s love is immeasurable. She has great dreams for her children and she patiently stands by as she watches them chase them. She is there to see them soar and she catches them when they fall. She might not always be perfect but in the end she will always be there. She is a devoted mother.
The Meaning of the Mothers Claddagh…
The mothers claddagh 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.
Mother’sDay is right around the corner! But this Mother’sDay feels different, special and her Mothers Day Gift should be special, too. Whether you’re celebrating yourself, gifting to that special mom or mother figures in your life finding truly one-of-a-kind item can make all the difference. Your mother is your best friend and certainly your biggest fan always. Show her, and all the important women in your life, you love just how much you care with the perfect Gift for Mother’sDay. Whether you are shopping for your wife, mother, grandmother, stepmom, aunt, sister, or another beautiful strong woman in your life, the Celtic Mothers Knot Jewelry Collection is a great Mothers Day gifts to give mom.
The Celtic symbol for motherhood, the Celtic Motherhood Knot is a stylized Celtic knot depicting a parent and child embrace. It is representative of the Madonna and child. Combined with a Celtic knot it is a true testament to the enduring bond between a mother and child, faith and their Celtic heritage.
Our Diamond Celtic Mother’s Knot Ring is a brilliant gift for any Irish mom or mother to be. “Grá Máthair” translated from Gaelic means “A mother’s love”. Is there any love greater then that of a mother and her children? She certainly deserves the best especially a Celtic Mother’s Knot Diamond Ring in sterling silver with approximately 1/8 carat in diamonds.
Celtic Mothers Knot Cross Pendant
There is an old Irish saying that says “A mother holds her children’s hands for a little while and their hearts forever.” This Celtic Mothers Knot Cross Necklace is the perfect Celtic cross for any Celtic or Irish mother.
Saint Patrick’s Day is the time-honored Irish holiday always celebrated on March 17th.
The luck of the Irish is always celebrated on St. Patrick’s Day that has become a global celebration of Irish culture usually celebrated with parades and pub gatherings. On St. Patrick’s Day many people of Irish decent flaunt there best Irish jewelry proudly. Adding a beautiful piece of Irish jewelry, like a claddagh ring, emerald green shamrock earrings or Harp Brooch to your St. Patrick’s Day look adds the perfect festive finishing touch. Luckily, there’s still time to get your perfect Irish gift a piece of St. Patrick’s Day jewelry in time for March 17th. Your local St. Patrick’s Day parade might be canceled in 2021 but your Irish spirit has not been. So treat yourself to a special piece of Irish jewelry to lift your spirits or give an Irish gift of jewelry, a unique present for a special someone who can use a little Irish luck.
The Claddagh Ring Means Friendship, Love and Loyalty
The Claddagh Ring, arguably the most versatile piece of Irish jewelry is world renowned, and are worn by both men and women, single or taken. Irish Claddagh rings are named for the ancient fishing village of Claddagh, near Galway, Ireland, dating back to the 17th century. The Claddagh ring in Irish is fáinne Chladaigh and is a traditional Irish ring which represents love, loyalty, and friendship. The hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty. The Irish Claddagh ring, as currently known, was first produced in the 17th century.
The Shamrock, the symbol of Ireland.
The majestic shamrock was chosen as the national symbol of Ireland because Saint Patrick used the 3 leafed clover to teach the Holy Trinity to the pagan Celts. The Celts understood the significance of the shamrock forming a triad because they believed three was a mystical number. The Trinity is the idea that God is really three-in-one: The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit. The word shamrock can be traced back to the Irish word seamróg or seamair óg, meaning “little clover”. The tradition of wearing a Shamrock on Saint Patrick’s Day can be traced back to the early 1700s. The Irish have long considered shamrocks as good-luck symbols and today people of many other nationalities also believe they bring good luck. Shamrock jewelry has gained in popularity in recent times. In Ireland shamrocks and shamrock jewelry are traditionally worn at weddings for good luck. Often tucked in a bouquet or used as filler with a boutonniere. Today lucky Irish shamrock jewelry is available in a wide select of shamrock earrings, shamrock brooch, shamrock necklaces and shamrock rings.
What is the Irish Harp?
The Irish harp is a political symbol of Ireland. for centuries. The exact origin of the Irish Harp is really known. The Irish Harp is a symbol of Ireland and Irish pride. The Irish harp became an emblem of resistance to the Crown and England. The Irish harp, although not as renowned as the shamrock is the official emblem of Ireland. The Irish harp status as the official insignia of Ireland dates centuries and the elegant instrument’s history talks much about the history of the Emerald Isle. Our elegant Irish Harp Brooch and Irish Harp Necklace accented by brilliant gold shamrocks is a noteworthy piece of Irish jewelry.
About us: The Irish Jewelry Company was founded by award-winning designer Jennifer Derrig. The Irish Jewelry Company Claddagh collection offers classic and contemporary Claddagh rings, all handcrafted.
The Meaning of the Irish Shamrock, the symbol of Ireland. The word shamrock comes from the Old Irish “seamróg”, which can be translated as “little clover”. The Irish word for clover is “seamair”, and óg means “young” or “little”.
What is the difference between a shamrock and a clover?
The shamrock and the clover plants are often confused. Shamrocks are in fact a species of the clover plant.The shamrock is most common 3-leaf clover native to the beautiful Emerald Isle. A clover must have three leaves to be considered a shamrock. If the clover has more or less, then it is not a shamrock.
Why is the shamrock a symbol of Ireland?
The majestic shamrock that adorn Irish jewelry today was chosen as the national symbol of Ireland because Saint Patrick used the 3 leafed clover to teach the Holy Trinity to the pagan Celts. The Celts understood the significance of the shamrock forming a triad because they believed three was a mystical number. The Trinity is the idea that God is really three-in-one: The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit. The word shamrock can be traced back to the Irish word seamróg or seamair óg, meaning “little clover”. The tradition of wearing a Shamrock on Saint Patrick’s Day can be traced back to the early 1700s. The Irish have long considered shamrocks as good-luck symbols and today people of many other nationalities also believe they bring good luck. Shamrock jewelry has gained in popularity in recent times. In Ireland shamrocks and shamrock jewelry are traditionally worn at weddings for good luck. Often tucked in a bouquet or used as filler with a boutineer.
What is the meaning of a 4 Leaf Clover?
According to Irish lore, each leaf represents: Love, Respect, Wealth, and Health. To find a four-leaf clover is a rare thing making it very lucky to find.
Shamrock Necklaces Popularized in Irish Jewelry
Erin Go Bragh Pendant and the Irish Hard Pendant by The Irish Jewelry Company
Shamrock necklaces, inspired by Ireland’s national symbol. Get the Luck of the Irish with a traditional shamrock pendant! The shamrock is believed to bring good luck and not just to the Irish. In Ireland shamrocks are traditionally worn at weddings for good luck. Brides sometimes pin a shamrock charm to their bouquet.
About us: The Irish Jewelry Company was founded by award-winning designer Jennifer Derrig. The Irish Jewelry Company collection offers classic and contemporary Irish Jewelry including Claddagh rings, all handcrafted.
irish culture and traditions 