The Guide to Celtic Jewellery

The Guide to Celtic Jewellery

 

Among our collection of jewellery and watches, we also carry a wide variety of Celtic jewellery pieces. Some of our most popular items include Celtic knot wedding bands which signify eternal love, Claddagh rings for the person who holds your heart and Shamrocks as a souvenir of  your trip to the Emerald Isle. But what do all Celtic designs mean and what do they stand for? Here is our guide to understanding what all our Celtic designs symbolise. 

 

Claddagh

Solvar 9ct Gold Emerald Claddagh RingSolvar 9ct Gold Emerald Claddagh Ring
Solvar 9ct Gold Emerald Claddagh Ring

"With these hands I give you my heart and crown it with my love."  

The iconic Claddagh ring features two hands holding a crowned heart, symbolising love, loyalty, and friendship.  

Recognised worldwide, it is often given as a token of love and devotion.

Trinity Knot

Solvar 14ct Gold Trinity Knot PendantSolvar 14ct Gold Trinity Knot Pendant
Solvar 14ct Gold Trinity Knot Pendant

The Trinity Knot, seen in ancient Celtic manuscripts like the Book of Kells, symbolises eternity, unity, and love.  

Once representing the Holy Trinity, it is now a cherished symbol of devotion, often given as a gift to loved ones.

Celtic Knot

9k Gold Celtic Knot Stud Earrings9k Gold Celtic Knot Stud Earrings
9k Gold Celtic Knot Stud Earrings

Celtic knots, dating back to the 8th century, symbolise unity and eternity with endless loops.  

Featured in the *Book of Kells*, each day a new page is displayed — it would take a year of daily visits to see the entire book!

Celtic Cross

Solvar 10ct Gold & Sterling Silver Celtic Cross PendantSolvar 10ct Gold & Sterling Silver Celtic Cross Pendant
Solvar 14k Celtic Cross Emeralds Pendant

Standing tall across Ireland, the Celtic Cross honours the heritage of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Its signature circle ring symbolises strength, eternity, or continuity.  

The four points are believed to represent the four directions or elements — Water, Air, Fire, and Earth — making it a powerful symbol of faith.


 

 

Shamrock

ShanOre Sterling Silver Shamrock PendantShanOre Sterling Silver Shamrock Pendant
Connemara Marble Sterling Silven Shamrock Earrings

The Celtic Shamrock, found across Ireland's historical sites, was believed to have mystical weather-predicting powers.  

Its three leaves symbolise the Holy Trinity or life ideals like love, faith, and hope. Saint Patrick is said to have used it in his teachings.  

While most shamrocks have three leaves, a rare four-leaf clover is seen as a symbol of great luck.

The Harp

ShanOre Sterling Silver Harp PendantShanOre Sterling Silver Harp Pendant
Solvar Sterling Silver Harp Brooch

The harp, an iconic Irish emblem since the 10th century, was once played only in royal circles. The oldest surviving harp, the *Trinity College Harp*, is displayed in Dublin's Trinity College.  

A proud symbol of Irish heritage, the harp appears on Irish coins, Guinness logos, and the Samuel Beckett Bridge.  

In modern Irish, the Celtic harp is called the Clairseach, representing Ireland's rich cultural legacy.

Tree of Life 

Solvar 14ct Gold Tree of Life PendantSolvar 14ct Gold Tree of Life Pendant
Solvar 14K Gold Diamond Emerald Tree of Life Necklace

The Tree of Life symbolizes connection to earth, ancestors, and spirits, vital for food, shelter, and community in Celtic times. Rooted and reaching to the sky, it represents growth and strength.  

Associated with knowledge, power, and wisdom, the symbol is worn for both cultural heritage and modern style, with contemporary designs becoming popular fashion pieces.


 

Celtic jewellery plays a significant part in the Silver Department here at Weir and Sons, as we are based on Grafton St. in the heart of Dublin city. We are just minutes away from Trinity college: Ireland’s Oldest University and home to the Book of Kells.