Barmbrack Recipe

Kierand LLC's avatarThe Irish Jewelry Company's Blog

Barmbrack is the center of an Irish Halloween custom. The Halloween Brack traditionally contained various objects baked into the bread and was used as a sort of fortune-telling game. In the barmbrack were: a pea, a stick, a piece of cloth, a small coin (originally a silver sixpence) and a ring. Each item, when received in the slice, was supposed to carry a meaning to the person concerned: the pea, the person would not marry that year; the stick, would have an unhappy marriage or continually be in disputes; the cloth or rag, would have bad luck or be 12002851_1068039236547381_8260594681565605031_npoor; the coin, would enjoy good fortune or be rich; and the ring, would be wed within the year. Other articles added to the brack include a medallion, usually of the Virgin Mary to symbolize going into the priesthood or to the Nuns, although this tradition is not widely continued in…

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The Banshee | Scream of the Banshee

Kierand LLC's avatarThe Irish Jewelry Company's Blog

The Banshee…. bean-sidhe (woman of the fairy may be an ancestral spirit appointed to forewarn members of certain ancient 220px-BansheeIrish families of their time of death. According to tradition, the banshee can only cry for five major Irish families: the O’Neills, the O’Briens, the O’Connors, the O’Gradys and the Kavanaghs. Intermarriage has since extended this select list.
Whatever her origins, the banshee chiefly appears in one of three guises: a young woman, a stately matron or a raddled old hag. These represent the triple aspects of the Celtic goddess of war and death, namely Badhbh, Macha and Mor-Rioghain.) She usually wears either a grey, hooded cloak or the winding sheet or grave robe of the unshriven dead. She may also appear as a washer-woman, and is seen apparently washing the blood stained clothes of those who are about to die. In this guise she is known as the…

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Colcannon (I love this stuff) A tradition Halloween meal.

Kierand LLC's avatarThe Irish Jewelry Company's Blog

12042678_10156171951110245_934213265156568500_nColcannon Recipe

Ingredients:
• 1 lb potatoes
• 1 lb kale or cabbage
• Onion or leek
• 1/4 cup milk
• Butter, salt and pepper

Directions:
First peel and boil the potatoes. Then chop the kale or cabbage up small. Steam cabbage until tender, about 8 minutes. Then saute the onion until golden. Mash the potatoes well, and mix with the cabbage and onion. Add a wee bit of milk and butter to get that creamy consistency. Then salt and pepper to taste. Bake in a medium oven for about 15 minutes.

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Irish Beef Stew with Irish Stout

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Ingredients:

  • 4 tbsp plain flour (corn starch if you want it to be gluten free)
  • 1 ½lb stew beef, trimmed and cut into chunks
  • 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
  • 2 onions, diced
  • 2-3 large carrots, sliced
  • 1 ½ cups beef stock (from a stock cube is fine)
  • 1 cup of Irish Stout (omit for gluten free and increase beef stock by 1 cup)
  • dash of Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 lbs even-sized peeled potatoes
  • 3 tbsp (1 ½oz) Irish Butter
  • salt and pepper

Coat beef with corn starch. Brown stew beef in a pot with butter and onions. Add carrots, thyme, potatoes, stock, stout and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 1 1/2-2 hours until beef is tender. Add salt and pepper to taste. Irish Beef Stew

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IRISH HALLOWEEN TRADITIONS and Samhain History

Kierand LLC's avatarThe Irish Jewelry Company's Blog

Samhain greeting card

The Celts celebrated Halloween as Samhain, ‘All Hallowtide’ – the ‘Feast of the Dead’, when the dead revisited the mortal world. The celebration marked the end of Summer and the start of the Winter months.

During the eighth century the Catholic Church designated the first day of November as ‘All Saints Day’ (‘All Hallows’) – a day of commemoration for those Saints that did not have a specific day of remembrance. The night before was known as ‘All Hallows Eve’ which, over time, became known as Halloween.

Here are the most notable Irish Halloween Traditions:

Colcannon for Dinner:
Boiled Potato, Curly Kale (a cabbage) and raw Onions are provided as the traditional Irish Halloween dinner. Clean coins are wrapped in baking paper and placed in the potato for children to find and keep.

The Barnbrack Cake:
The traditional Halloween cake in Ireland is the barnbrack which is a fruit bread…

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Family Jewelry – Treasured Family Heirlooms

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We have all heard of the infamous “grandma’s ring” or Aunt Mary’s necklace. For generations family members have always gravitated to that one piece of jewelry that symbolized their family bond. That one piece of jewelry you always remembered seeing your loved one wear. Passing on these beautiful pieces of family jewelry like a mother’s ring or family birthstone necklace has been treasured and is currently seeing a resurgent’s in popularity amongst young couples and families today.

Family jewelry can take on several forms of sentimental jewelry. Often these pieces mark various special occasions like a child’s birth, a bond between mother and child, the birthstones of grandchildren or significant life changes or milestones.

Every family is different, but every family is special. A beautiful piece of family jewelry especially something that pays tribute to one’s cultural heritage as well is even more meaningful. Family jewelry is perfect for moms to be, new moms, mothers and grandmothers.

Mother’s Jewelry

Take for instance “Mother’s Jewelry”. This is an entire category of jewelry often talkies dedicated to the mom. It usually always says the word Mom or Mother. Often these designs are incorporated with flowers since then are usually given around or on Mother’s Day. In the case of Irish jewelry, an Irish mother’s necklace would include shamrocks because you are so lucky to have her.

Mother’s Claddagh

The meaning of the Mothers Claddagh is one of true sentiment. The mother’s claddagh is a stylized parent and child embrace. It represents the Madonna and child and is combined with a traditional Irish claddagh. The claddagh is the symbol of friendship, love and loyalty. The claddagh is an Irish symbol that appeals to Irish and non-Irish alike. This beautiful collection of jewelry is a testament to the enduring bond between a mother, her child, faith and heritage.

Celtic Mother’s Knot

The Celtic Mother’s Knot is traditional holy trinity knot stylized with a parent and child embrace. Like the Mother’s Claddagh this mother and child union is symbolic of the Madonna and child. This beautiful religious symbol combined with a Celtic trinity knot it is a real symbol of the faithful bond between a mother and her child.

Family Birthstone Jewelry

Birthstone jewelry usually marks the birthdays of a group of family members like children or grandchildren. The Claddagh Family Birthstone Necklace is the perfect symbol of the Irish family bond. Wear this birthstone charm alone to represent your own birthstone or in multiples to signify your children or grandchildren. This 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 jewelry is a perfect way to say thank you mom.

Baby Bootie Charms

Now baby bootie charms are all truly adorable but an Irish baby bootie charm really takes it to that extra level of awesome. An Irish Baby Bootie Necklace is too cute for words. These Irish baby shoe charms are a brilliant reminder of just how precious our wee ones are. Each enamel baby shoe charm has a tiny shamrock in CZ. What Irish mother, mom to be or grandmother wouldn’t feel blessed to wear this Irish baby bootie necklace? Engraved on the sole of the baby shoe charm is the double shamrock and trinity knot symbolizing the spiritual bond between mother, child and God? These Irish baby shoe charms come in three colors, pink, blue and green.

Family is very important. Celebrate this strong bond with loved ones through a beautiful piece of jewelry you’ll be proud to pass on for generations to come.

Jennifer Derrig,
Owner of The Irish Jewelry Company
Shop Irish Jewelry at the Best Irish Jewelry Store, The Irish Jewelry Company. http://www.theirishjewelrycompany.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Derrig

Men’s Celtic Jewelry

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Men's Celtic Jewelry

http://www.theirishjewelrycompany.com/collections/men-s-jewelry.html

Mens Celtic Black Claddagh

http://www.theirishjewelrycompany.com/celtic-black-claddagh.html

Our Mens Black Celtic Claddagh is a handsome claddagh pendant. This circular mens claddagh necklace with it’s rich texture accented by black enamel gives it a bold, fresh modern feel. Pledge your eternal friendship, love and loyalty with this gorgeous men’s claddagh necklace.

Celtic Cross Ring

http://www.theirishjewelrycompany.com/celtic-cross-ring-1729.html

Our Celtic Cross Ring is magnificent and bold. Legend 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 symbol of God’s endless love. This handsome Celtic cross ring is perfect any Celtic lad or Irishman.

black and gold celtic cross

http://www.theirishjewelrycompany.com/black-and-gold-celtic-cross.html

This handsome Black and Gold Celtic Cross Necklace is a rocking tribute to ones Celtic heritage and faith.

Aran claddagh band

http://www.theirishjewelrycompany.com/aran-claddagh-band.html

This Aran Claddagh Rope Band is a finely crafted Irish master piece accented in all sterling silver. This designer claddagh wedding band is inspired by the warmth of the Irish wool…

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Birthstone Jewelry Meaning and Powers

irish jewelry birthstones

via Birthstone Jewelry Meaning and Powers.

Birthstone jewelry is extremely personal and a great way to express who you are. Birthstone jewelry comes in a variety of options from pendants and earrings to rings and bracelets. This type of jewelry is a wonderful gift for any woman especially moms, grandmothers and children. Many companies offer family birthstone jewelry which allows you to personalize multi charms with birthstones of your choice to represent family members.

For centuries many cultures have valued various gemstones for their rare beauty. Many cultures believed gemstones had mystical powers. Legend says that wearing a birthstone during it’s month heightens its powers.

It has been said that the first list of twelve birthstones is said to be mentioned in the Book of Revelation in the bible. The traditional list of birthstones was created in 1912 and has been updated several times since to accommodate growing trends in jewelry.

Unfortunately only a chosen few are lucky enough to be born in the month of April and have diamond as their birthstone. Regardless of the month you are born all gemstones are beautiful. They are truly a gift from Mother Nature and should be valued and treasured. Birthstone jewelry makes a meaningful gift that can be passed on for generations.

Birthstone Chart and Symbolic Meaning.

January – Garnet is thought to symbolize faith, fidelity, and truth. It is traditionally a second anniversary gift.

February – Amethyst is thought to symbolize royalty, sincerity and strength.

March – Aquamarine is a symbol of contentment and eternal youth.

April – Diamond is a girl’s best friend and a symbol of loyalty. It is traditionally given as a tenth anniversary gift.

May – Emerald is believed to promote intellect and integrity. This gemstone is given for twentieth and thirty – fifth anniversaries.

June – Alexandrite is thought to be both unbreakable, strong and to increases self – esteem.

July – Ruby is believed to preserve mental health controlling passionate desires, and reconciling disputes. It is traditionally given for the fourteenth and fifteenth anniversary.

August – Peridot is thought to provide protection, health, and to attract love. It is traditionally given for the sixteenth anniversary.

September – Sapphire is said to provide its wearer with spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. The gem of destiny is given as a fifth anniversary gift.

October – Pink Tourmaline is believed to be protective.

November – Citrine is believed to symbolize lightheartedness and joy.

December – 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.

By Jennifer Derrig
Shop for Claddagh Birthstone and Family Birthstone Jewelry at The Irish Jewelry Company online at http://www.theirishjewelrycompany.com/collections/birthstones.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Derrig

Tips On How To Buy Irish Jewelry For A Gift

via Tips On How To Buy Irish Jewelry For A Gift.

There is not a doubt that giving your loved one jewelry says they are special. But giving someone of Irish heritage a piece of Irish or Celtic jewelry, steeped in symbolism and tradition could put them over the moon. The sentimentality of Celtic jewelry is phenomenal but finding the perfect meaning is key. It’s a timeless gift, like a family heirloom that can be passed on for generations. However, successfully selecting the perfect piece with that special meaning can be a wee bit confusing for some people. Simply follow these easy tips and choosing that perfect jewelry gift that speaks for itself will be effortless.

1. How old is the person you are shopping for? You really want to take the age of the perstemporary imageon into consideration. If they are a child you’ll want something smaller in size, maybe with a touch of whimsy like an angel or fairy. If they are in their twenties to forties then have no fear and go trendy with an Infinity Knot or Stackable Claddagh Ring. If you are buying for somebody a wee bit wiser in their years then I would go with a traditional symbol of Ireland like an Irish Harp.

2. What type of jewelry do they normally wear? Start looking at how they currently accessorize their wardrobe. Do they wear earrings all the time? Are they long and dangling or are they smaller and close to the ear? Do they like bracelets and rings or are they a necklace person? If you are buying a ring it is important to get the size correct. Many online jewelry retailers offer a ring sizing tool. A simple ring sizing guide to measure your finger or an actual ring online. By using this simple tool it eliminates the hassle of having to make a ring exchange.

3. Is it a religious occasion? Having an understanding of the event or occasion you are purchasing your jewelry gift for is very important. If it is a religious ceremony like a communion or confirmation you should go with something more traditional like a Celtic cross, medal or rosary.

4. On the other hand shopping for a birthday gift can be fun. Take the person’s personality into consideration. Are they fun and vibrant with a great sense of humor? Then go with something whimsical that has a punch of emerald green color like the “Little Irish Devil Shamrock” necklace. If they are a little more mystical and free-spirited try a legendary style like the “Children of Lir” pendant, “Irish Tree of Life” or something with a Celtic knot theme. If they are a bit more reserved then try a more traditional shamrock pendant, trinity knot or a claddagh necklace.

5. Who is the person you are shopping for? If you are shopping for a sibling or close friend who is like a sister then you should consider a style like the “Celtic Sisters Knot”. For a more romantic gift we recommend shopping for a love knot or a claddagh ring, a symbol of friendship, love and loyalty. If you are shopping for a mom or mom to be then consider a style with loads of sentimental meaning like the “Celtic Mother’s Knot” or the “Mother’s Claddagh” collection. Any mother would be overwhelmed with joy by their meaning. If you are purchasing for a grandmother try considering a style like the “Family Birthstone Claddagh”. It can be personalized with all the grand children’s birthstones. What Irish grandmother wouldn’t love that?

Irish and Celtic jewelry is inspired by customs and folklores passed on for generations over centuries from countries like Ireland and Scotland. Giving a piece of jewelry like this as a gift is a wonderful tribute to someone’s heritage.

Jennifer Derrig, Owner of http://www.TheIrishJewelryCompany.com. Shop The Irish Jewelry Company for all your Irish Jewelry needs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Derrig

The Celtic Owl

The word “cailleach” in the Scottish-Gaelic means old woman!, Owl in Gaelic is “cauileach-oidhche”  , believe it or not it means “night-cockerel” or “white old woman of the night.”  Because the owl was most often associated with the Crone aspect of the Celtic Hag Goddess “Cailleach”. The owl is often a guide to and through the Underworld, a creature of keen sight in darkness, and a silent and swift hunter. Celtic folklore says the wise owl can give you wisdom by helping unmask those who would deceive you or take advantage of you. “Hoo” knew?

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