Traditional Ring Warming Ceremony Guide

A ring warming ceremony during an Irish wedding is typically performed in lieu of a unity candle ceremony. A wedding ring warming ceremony is an endearing way to include the bride and grooms friends and family in their beautiful nuptials.

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.

What is a ring warming ceremony?

An Irish wedding ring warming ceremony is exactly what it sounds like. The ring warming is a tradition that involves literally passing around those costly and precious Celtic wedding bands to each trusted guest to actually be warmed. The precious metal wedding bands are in their hands on warmed by their touch and warm thoughts of encouragement.

Traditional Ring Warming Ceremony Steps

Step 1: Take your Celtic wedding rings and tie them together with a beautiful piece of ribbon and secure them inside a decorated box or onto a bridal cushion. You ca really get creative and maybe add some fresh shamrocks or use some Irish lace as decoration.

Step 2: Just before the bride and groom make their final exchange during the ceremony the wedding officiant will announce to your guests that the ring ceremony with brief instructions is beginning and the wedding rings are going to be passed around to each guest. Make sure to assign someone special; to assist in seeing the rings move swiftly and loving among the quests.

Step 3: Music should be played while the rings are making the rounds among the quest. Remember the music tempo will help set the pace. Have each guest hold the wedding bands for a few seconds and make a quick wish for success and pass them.

Step 4: When all your guests have sufficiently warmed your wedding bands that special designated ring assistant should promptly see that the precious bands make their way back to the couple or the best man.

A ring warming ceremony is an enduring way to include your guest in you wedding however its probably best performed for smaller wedding gatherings as it could take up significant time.

Ring warming ceremony ideas for large weddings

For large weddings with a hundred or more guests a traditional Irish ring warming ceremony can take up a substantially amount of time. Time couples aren’t often afford during an extremely busy day.

A fun alternative to passing your wedding rings around to each guest tie your wedding rings to a piece of decorative ribbon, maybe embellished with a sprig of shamrocks and leave them displayed on a table maybe on a piece of Irish lace towards the entrance of your reception area before the wedding ceremony with a trusted guardian of the rings of course. Place a sign or a isle on the table instructing your wedding guests to hold or warm the rings in their hands for a moment and make a wish for you both. Kindly ask your guardian of the rings to see they get back to the best man before the ceremony begins.

The Average Ring Size for Men & Women

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

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

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.

Share this:

A Mothers Friendship, Love and Loyalty: The Mothers Claddagh

The Mothers Claddagh Pendant

Mother’s Day 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.

The Mothers Claddagh Necklace

Mothers Claddagh Cross Necklace

Mothers Claddagh Ring

Mothers Claddagh Earrings

The Mothers Claddagh Jewelry Collection, designs and it’s images are copyrighted © by The Irish Jewelry Company™. For more about The Irish Jewelry Company or the Mothers Claddagh shop The Irish Jewelry Company online at TheIrishJewelryCompany.com

Celebrating Mother’s Day: 7 Great Mother’s Day Gifts

Mothers Claddagh Collection by The Irish Jewelry Company

Awwww Mother’s Day, a wonderful day of celebration honoring the mother or matriarch of the family. It also celebrates the beauty of motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in our lives today. Mother’s Day is celebrated on different days around the world. It is most commonly in the spring months of March or May around Easter time. Mother’s Day is a great celebration similar to the celebrations honoring family members, such as Father’s Day, Siblings Day, and Grandparents Day. It is a celebration of motherhood that shows its appreciation of all the hard work mothers and mother figures do for their families.

So when is Mothers Day exactly?

Mothers Day is a great holiday in honor of mothers celebrated in many countries throughout the world. The modern form of the holiday and the way in which it is celebrated originated in the United Sates. However, the date of Mother’s Day varies around the world. Anna Jarvis a resident of Philadelphia, whose mother was an activist who had organized various women’s organization to promote friendship and health, originated Mother’s Day. In 1907 she held a memorial service for her mother at her church, in West Virginia. Shortly there after within a few years virtually every state in the United States was observing the day as Mothers Day. The day honoring mothers became so popular that by 1914 U.S. Pres. Woodrow Wilson made it a national holiday forever dedicating a day in the US to celebrate and honor mothers.

When in Mother’s Day in the US?

In the United States, Mother’s Day is always celebrated annually on the second Sunday in May.

When is Mother’s Day in the UK?

In the UK, mothers are honored in spring on the fourth Sunday of Lent, right before Easter Sunday. The Custom developed in the Middle Ages as a way to allow those who had moved away to visit their home parishes and mothers on Laetare Sunday, or the fourth Sunday of Lent. This is how the holiday became known as Mothering Sunday in Britain,and in modern times is refereed to as Mother’s Day.

When is Mother’s Day in Ireland?

In Ireland, like in the United Kingdom, Mothering Sunday (Mother’s Day) as it is lovingly refereed, it is held on the fourth Sunday in Lent. It is usually in March or at the beginning of April, exactly three weeks before Easter Sunday. Mother’s Day 2021 in the US is almost her so show her how much you care.

Best Mother’s Day Gifts

These fabulous Mother’s Day Gift Ideas are the perfects gift to honor any mother, grandmother or mom to be. Celebrate Mom this Mother’s Day with the best gifts for Mother’s Day to give her that show her just how much she means to her family.

Mother’s Day celebrates motherhood and is a day to make an extra-special effort to recognize and appreciate mothers’ roles in our lives with a special Mother’s Day Gift. Often this day is extended to multi generations of mothers including grandmothers, great-grandmothers, stepmothers—as well as tomother figures who are also given Mothers Day Gifts.

The Mothers Claddagh Jewelry Collection

Mothers Claddagh Pendant

The mothers claddagh is an unassuming stylized mother and child embrace representative of the Madonna and child. Combined with a traditional Irish claddagh, the mothers claddagh it is a testament to the enduring bond between a mother, her child, faith and their Irish heritage. 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 Mothers Claddagh Jewelry Collection, includes the Mothers Claddagh Necklace, Mothers Claddagh Cross Pendant, Mothers Claddagh Earrings, and the Mothers Claddagh Ring. The Mothers Claddagh is exclusive to The Irish Jewelry Company.

The Original Celtic Mothers Knot

The Celtic Mothers Knot Collection by The Irish Jewelry Company

What is the Celtic Mothers Knot Meaning?

The original Celtic motherhood knot, the Celtic Mothers Knot is an unassuming stylized holy trinity with a mother and child embrace is representative of the Madonna and child. Combined with a Celtic trinity knot the Celtic motherhood knot known as the Celtic Mothers Knot is a true testament to the enduring bond between a mother, her child, faith and their Celtic heritage. The Celtic Mothers Knot, that depicts the mother and child Celtic Knot symbol is exclusive to The Irish Jewelry Company.

The Celtic Mothers Knot is also called the Motherhood Knot.

The Celtic Mothers Knot also known as the Celtic Mothehood Knot is a  variation of the familiar Trinity knot symbolizing the Celtic faith and family bond. Our Irish Mothers Knot jewelry represents the special bond between a mother and children and their Celtic heritage. Irish and Celtic moms will love our symbolic and unique Celtic Mothers Knot jewelry pieces. Honor her with an elegant Celtic reminder of motherhood with these Celtic mothers jewelry items.

The Celtic Mothers Knot Jewelry Collection, includes the Celtic Mothers Knot Necklace, Celtic Mothers Knot Pendant, Celtic Mothers Knot Cross Pendant, Celtic Mothers Knot Earrings, Diamond Celtic Mothers Knot Ring and the Celtic Mothers Knot Ring. The Celtic Mothers Knot Jewelry Collection is exclusive to The Irish Jewelry Company.

The Celtic Family Knot

What is the Celtic knot for family?

The Celtic Family Knot Collection by The Irish Jewelry Company

What is the meaning of the Celtic Family Knot?

The Celtic symbol for family and Celtic motherhood is the  Celtic Family Knot.  It represents the strong family bond that units a clan. This original Celtic Family Knot design is great for all moms as a symbol of family love and Celtic Motherhood.

The Irish Celtic symbol for family, the Celtic Family Knot is a reminder of the beauty of family love. Celtic knots are eternal and strong like the bond that holds a family together. The Celtic Family Knot Pendant is a keepsake that will be cherished. Whether you are a single parent with one child or a couple with starting a family this Celtic Knot Family of Two Pendant is perfect.

A Celtic symbol for love and family

The Celtic family knot is a symbol strong and powerful Celtic family bonds. Celtic knot symbols have always inspired ways to express aspects of our Irish Celtic family lives. the Celtic symbol for the family represented in jewelry and Celtic family knot tattoo inspirations are a popular to express one’s strong Celtic family bonds. The Celtic Family Knot is an exclusive design of The Irish Jewelry Company.

The Claddagh Family Birthstone Necklace

The Claddagh Family Birthstone Necklace

This Claddagh Family Birthstone Necklace is perfect to wear alone to represent your own birthstone or in multiples to signify your children. The Claddagh Family Birthstone necklace is completely customizable. You can personalize each family necklace in your choice of birthstone charms and in your choice of chain lengths as an original Mothers necklace. Each birthstone charm can represent a family member, child or grandchild. Either way, no matter the number of claddagh birthstone charms, this Irish family necklace is beautiful. Family & Mothers Jewelry is the perfect way to say thank you mom. The customizable Claddagh Family Birthstone Necklace is exclusive to The Irish Jewelry Company.

Mom Claddagh Ring

Claddagh Mom Ring

The Claddagh Mom Ring is a beautiful tribute for any mother. This new modern twist on a traditional claddagh ring creating the word “Mom” takes Irish claddagh rings to a new level of great design. The claddagh mom ring is a symbol of friendship, love and loyalty between a mother and her child. The Mom Claddagh Ring is exclusive to The Irish Jewelry Company.

Mom Claddagh Heart Pendant

Mom Claddagh Heart

Mom Claddagh Heart Pendant is a beautiful gift for any mother. A true symbol of mom’s friendship , love and loyalty. Mom’s heart will melt when she sees this shimmering claddagh with bright pink heart pendant. The word “Mom” is spelled out across the center of the claddagh heart in a charming font. It’s a tradition Irish sentiment with a nod to mom. She will truly treasure our Mom Claddagh Heart Pendant. The Mom Claddagh Heart Pendant is an exclusive design of The Irish Jewelry Company.

The Irish Mom Pendant

Irish Mom Pendant

Give Mom a gift she will truly treasure especially your Irish mom. This brilliant stylized oval Mom pendant with filigree shamrocks is a lovely tribute to mom’s Irish heritage. The shamrock is a 3-leaf clover and is the symbol of Ireland. The shamrock forms a triad and the Celts believed three was a mystical number. In Ireland shamrocks are traditionally for good luck. Tell her how “Lucky” you are to have her for a mom! The Irish Mom Pendant is exclusive to The Irish Jewelry Company.

“All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That’s his.” Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest

Shop for great gifts for mom for Mothers Day or any special occasion. The Best Mothers Day Gifts from The Irish Jewelry Company, the best online Irish jeweler.

6 Celtic Wedding Rings Inspired by Irish Tradition

“Will you marry Me”? It is probably the greatest question you will ever ask or be asked and one of the most important times in your life. Choose a ring just as significant, and one the holds symbolic meaning. Celtic wedding rings and Celtic engagement rings hold a deep significance in the daily lives of many men and women, especially in the Celtic culture.  In memory of a loved one. Jewelry like rings is often worn to commemorate special occasions in one’s life like a promise of love, lifelong commitment through marriage or in memory of a loved one.

The Origins of the Wedding Ring Tradition

The origin of the exchanging of rings or the wedding ring tradition some 3,00 years but even more exciting the first recorded history of a diamond wedding ring dates to the incredibly early 1400’s. The Western tradition of exchanging wedding rings is said to have originated in ancient Rome and Greece. Early engagement rings or wedding bands were exchanged as a dowry and then later then were used as a promise ring of fidelity. Our modern custom of exchanging wedding rings and engagement rings is derived from Christendom from Europe in the Middle Ages.  Many have argued that the tradition of the ring finger or the wearing of the ring on the fourth finger of the left hand is traced all the way back to the Egyptians. The Egyptians held the belief that the vena amoris, the vein of love ran heart to the top of the fourth finger on the left hand.

Celtic Wedding Rings are Rich in Beauty and Culture

Many people of Celtic heritage often desire a Celtic wedding inspired by the tradition of the Celtic Nations, especially Ireland. There are six regions recognized as Celtic nations, and they are Ireland, Brittany, Isle of Man, Cornwall, Scotland, and Wales.

Who Buys a Celtic Engagement Ring or Wedding Ring?

Many Irish Americans and those who connect with the heritage of the Celtic nations identify with Celtic wedding rings and Celtic engagement rings inspired by historical Irish traditions and heritage. Celtic rings are an appealing and distinctive take on the engagement ring and wedding band.

Two Popular Styles of Traditional Celtic Wedding Rings

Although there are many variations in design the two main styles of Celtic weddings and Celtic engagement ring are often the claddagh and Celtic Knot ring design. Claddagh Rings can be worn as promise ring, engagement ring or as a wedding band.

The Claddagh Ring

Claddagh rings are named for the ancient fishing village of Claddagh, near Galway, Ireland, dating back to the 17th century.  The Irish Claddagh ring, 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 Claddagh Ring is a type of fede ring. The name fede comes from the Italian phrase “mani fede” meaning hands joined in faith. It is also commonly referred to as the hands and heart ring. There is also a version known as the Fenian Claddagh or Dublin Claddagh. This version does not have a crown and was made in Dublin in the 1800’s.   In Irish tradition claddagh rings are passed down from mother to daughter. Joyce later begun the romantic tradition of giving a claddagh ring to a loved one as a promise of friendship, love, and loyalty.

The Celtic Knot Ring

There are many Celtic knot ring styles, but all Celtic Knot Rings are magnificent in their intricate design and cultural meaning.  The basic principle of a Celtic knot is that it is an endless knot. Throughout the centuries the Irish have carried on the traditional Celtic folklore of the Celtic knot and adapted many versions of the knot.  Endless Celtic knots make the perfect design inspiration for engagement rings and wedding bands. Celtic knot engagement rings speak volumes about Irish heritage and meaning. Any one can enjoy the beautiful design and symbolic meaning of these unique wedding rings.

Aran Claddagh Wedding Band

By The Irish Jewelry Company

This Aran Rope Claddagh Wedding Band is a finely crafted Irish masterpiece accented in all sterling silver. This designer claddagh wedding band is inspired by the warmth of the Irish wool fibers twisted into the beautiful and strong yarn that is knitted into traditional Aran sweaters. The Aran sweater is a symbol of Irish heritage and traditional Irish customs. The claddagh wedding ring is a symbol of friendship, love and loyalty and it makes the perfect Irish Claddagh wedding ring for any Celtic man.

Celtic Trinity Diamond Band

By The Irish Jewelry Company

This Celtic Trinity Knot Diamond Band is as sleek and stylish as it is captivating. Express your love and honor your heritage with this true Celtic band. Trinity knots are the Irish love knot. This Celtic trinity knot band will take your loves breathe away.

Diamond Celtic Eternity Wedding Band

By The Irish Jewelry Company

The Diamond Celtic Eternity Knot Band in sterling silver and yellow gold is magnificent. Celtic knots have no ending or beginning. This diamond Celtic eternity knot wedding band symbolizes the eternal bond between man and woman. This is truly a striking Celtic wedding ring.  

Celtic Weave Diamond Bridal Set

By The Irish Jewelry Company

This captivating Celtic Weave Diamond Bridal Set will honor your bride’s Celtic heritage. This clever woven Celtic knot engagement ringfeatures a square diamond cluster setting flanked by trinity knots. Trinity knots are the Irish love knot. On your wedding day stack, it with the coordinating Celtic woven band that fits snugly next to it.   

Diamond Trinity Knot Engagement Ring Set

By The Irish Jewelry Company

This Diamond Trinity Knot Engagement Ring Set is as beautiful and captivating. Express your love and honor your heritage with this true Trinity Knot Engagement Ring set. The Celtic Trinity engagement ring has a round cluster setting that shimmers with diamonds and is accented with trinity knots on either side. The matching band has coordinating trinity knots and diamonds. Trinity knots are the Irish love knot. This Celtic Trinity Knot Engagement ring set edged in milgrain for an heirloom look will take your loves breathe away.

Diamond Claddagh Engagement Ring

By The Irish Jewelry Company

This Diamond Claddagh Engagement Ring radiates exquisite beauty. The Diamond Claddagh ring is one of Ireland’s best-known symbols of love. A Diamond Claddagh engagement ringhas three symbolic parts. The heart stands for love, the crown is for loyalty, and the hands are for friendship. Experience every stage of love, loyalty, and friendship. There is an old Irish saying that goes, “With These hands, I give you my heart and crown it with my love”.

About us: The Irish Jewelry Company was founded by award-winning designer Jennifer Derrig.  The Irish Jewelry Company Claddagh ring collection offers classic and contemporary Claddagh rings, all handcrafted.

Explore The Irish Jewelry Company Claddagh ring collection today and start your own Irish tradition today.

The Tradition of Ancient Celtic Jewelry

Celtic Jewelry for Men

While the exact origins of Celtic Knots in ancient Celtic Jewelry are lost to time scholars largely believe these Celtic symbols more than likely date to around 500 BC. Celtic knots and Celtic knot artwork images have been found carved and drawn on ancient Celtic architecture, art and in illuminated manuscripts like the Book of Kells. The first ancient examples of Celtic Jewelry are thought to date back to approximately 2000 BC to around 550 AD. It is during this period scholars widely believe the Celts and Celtic craftsman began working with silver and gold to craft beautiful intricate Celtic jewelry decorated with designs featuring Celtic symbols and Celtic knots.

The exact meaning the ancient Celts intended Celtic knots to represent has unfortunately been lost in through the centuries. Generally Celtic Knot meaning in jewelry has been left to interpretation by talented designer like Jennifer Derrig of The Irish Jewelry Company. Original ancient Celtic knot designs can be found embossed on large Celtic crosses in stone all over Ireland that have with stood the test of time and are depicted in metal work and Celtic jewelry on ancient riches like the Ardagh Chalice part of the Ardagh Hoard on display at National Museum of Archaeology in Ireland in Dublin.

Celtic Jewelry is so highly sought after and admired throughout the world especially well designed Celtic Jewelry. Tourists to Ireland and the Celtic Nations often wonder about the local crafts the country is famous for creating. Ireland is famous for a variety of crafts including wool sweaters and its famous world-renowned Celtic Jewelry.

What jewelry is Ireland known for?

Ireland is known for beautiful Celtic Jewelry inspired by the ancient Celtic philosophy . Celtic jewelry is steeped in culture from Ireland with symbols of love, family, faith, and friendship passed for generations. Celtic jewelry has timeless appeal and is a wonderful representation of the vibrant Irish culture and people.

Celtic jewelry also called Irish jewelry is high quality and handcrafted inspired by all things Irish and made from the finest material by expert Irish jewelers. When a customer buys a piece of Celtic jewelry such as a Claddagh Ring, or Celtic Trinity Knot they are not only getting a beautiful piece of jewelry they are also passing on traditional Celtic culture and custom.

Celtic Cross Jewelry

The Celtic cross is one of the most revered symbols of Ireland and of Irish culture. Few symbols are as renowned as the embodiment of Celtic Christianity like the Celtic cross worldwide. The Celtic Cross is basically a Latin cross with a circle of light, or a halo intersecting it. This cross also known as the Irish cross or the cross of Iona is a famous Christian symbol that has its roots in paganism.  The cross with a circle of light emerged in France and Britain in the middle ages and predates Christianity. It was adopted by Irish missionaries from the 9th through the 12th centuries.

Celtic Cross pendants and Irish Cross necklaces are inspired by the brilliant history and cultural symbolism of the standing stone crosses of Ireland like those at Clonmacnoise monastery. Celtic Crosses are inspired by beautiful Irish crosses reproduced in Silver and Gold with elaborate inscriptions like the ones on ancient Irish high crosses all over Ireland. Celtic crosses are world renowned by those who love all things Irish and Irish culture.

Traditional Celtic Knot Jewelry

Celtic Knots are a popular Celtic symbol but there are many types of Celtic Knots. Celtic knots are like circles and loops interwoven with no beginning or end. Celtic knots are a  symbol of eternity and the cycle of life. Celtic symbols are widely popular in Celtic Knot Tattoos and in Celtic Knot Jewelry. Celtic knot symbols have a variety of Celtic Knot meanings representing family, strength, protection, love and more.

Authentic Celtic knot jewelry is steeped in Celtic tradition, Celtic jewelry history and Celtic heritage. Often Celtic knot jewelry meaning come from unique symbols of Irish, Scottish and Celtic culture. Symbols like the shamrock, Celtic knot and Irish harp to the wonderful Claddagh ring which has gained fame around the world.

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.

Explore The Irish Jewelry Company Claddagh ring collection today and start your own Irish tradition today.

Flaunt your Irish Pride with Saint Patrick’s Day Jewelry

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.

Explore The Irish Jewelry Company Claddagh ring collection today and start your own Irish tradition today.

Shamrocks: A Symbol of Ireland

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THE SHAMROCK?

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.

Explore The Irish Jewelry Company Claddagh ring collection today and start your own Irish tradition today.

Saint Patrick’s Day History and Tradition

As that old saying goes “Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day“. Saint Patrick’s Day is one of the most popular Irish holidays celebrated world wide by the Irish and non Irish a like. Saint Patrick’s Day is actually the Feast day of Ireland’s patron saint known as Saint Patrick (Irish: Lá Fhéile Pádraig, also widely known as “the Day of the Festival of Patrick”). St. Patrick’s Day for the Irish is a popular cultural celebration as well as a religious celebration held on 17 March.  The feast day of St. Patrick is the traditional death date of Saint Patrick (c. AD 385–461). Saint Patrick is the foremost patron saint of Ireland.

Who was Saint Patrick? 

Saint Patrick was a Christian missionary and is regarded as the patron saint of Ireland. St. Patrick lived from AD 373–493, and ministered mostly in Northern Ireland from AD 433 until his death. Irish legend credits Patrick with banishing snakes from the island of Ireland although Ireland never actually had snakes. Let’s just chalk that up to some poetic license. It has however been suggested that snakes referred to the serpent symbolism of the pagans also called the Druids. Saint Patrick is also credited with teaching the Irish about the Holy Trinity by showing people the shamrock and a three-leaved clover. Legend also says St. Patrick, while preaching Christianity, drew a cross through a Celtic circle symbolic of the moon Goddess. Hence the Celtic cross was born. Today the circle of the cross is viewed as a of God’s endless love.

New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Irish-American immigrants brought Saint Patrick’s Day to the United States. The first civic and public celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day took place in Boston, Massachusetts in 1737. The first celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day in New York City was held at the Crown and Thistle Tavern in 1756. Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated by Irish and non-Irish alike. Regardless of ethnic background, everyone wears green-colored clothing and items. Traditionally, those who are caught not wearing green are pinched. The NYC St. Patrick’s Day parade has become the largest Saint Patrick’s Day parade in the world, outside Ireland. In 2006 more than 150,000 marchers participated in it, including Irish bands, Irish firefighters, Irish military and Irish police groups, county associations, Irish emigrant societies, Emerald Societies, and social and Irish cultural clubs, and it was watched by close to two million spectators lining the streets.

Why do we wear green on St Patrick’s Day?

Old Irish folklore says that wearing green makes one invisible to mischievous creatures like leprechauns, fairies who pinch those not wearing the green.  As a matter of superstition people began pinching anyone not wear green as a reminder that leprechauns were lurking about.

The origin of the “wearing of the green” dress code for St Patrick’s Day dates can be dated to the 1798 Irish Rebellion, the major uprising against the British in Ireland. It was during this rebellion when the shamrock, a three leaf clover became a symbol of Irish nationalism.

Today many people adorn themselves with lucky shamrock jewelry on St. Patrick’s Day. Saint Patrick’s Day jewelry such as Shamrock jewelry including shamrock earrings, and an Irish necklace like a shamrock necklace makes the perfect Irish accessory for the festive holiday.

Another symbol of Irish pride worn on St. Patrick’s Day is the Irish Harp. Irish harps are worn as Irish harp brooches and Irish harp necklaces. The Irish harp, although not as renowned as the shamrock is the official emblem of Ireland. TheIrish harps status as the official insignia of Ireland dates centuries and the elegant instrument’s history tells much about the history of the Emerald Isle.