The Unique Handcrafted Irish Jewelry Of Today

Celtic jewelry is distinctive and timeless and today's most talented designers are taking the centuries-old designs to new heights. Here's a look at some of today's unique handmade Celtic jewelry.

There are so many beautiful symbols that hold special meaning for Irish people. You are probably already familiar with some of them!

If you live in the United States and want to maintain your sense of family history, Irish rings, necklaces, and bracelets bearing these symbols are a great way to celebrate your Celtic culture. Besides, they can make great Irish gifts.

Depending on your goals, you can get these types of Celtic jewelry in precious metal or adorned with precious gems. Yoy can also find more affordable versions to suit your budget. That being said, let's break them down.

Table of Contents

Tree of Life Necklace

The Tree of Life is a common symbol across different cultures and religions. Still, in Irish culture, there is also a historical meaning.

The Celtic Tree of Life represents strength, harmony, and wisdom. Druids (ancient Celtic religious leaders) highly valued trees because they were seen as a connection between heaven and earth and highly respected for their shelter and strength.

There are many options for Irish jewelry featuring the Tree of Life. Still, some of the best options are beautiful silver necklaces.

Torc

Torcs are a beautiful type of historical Irish jewelry that can act as conversation starters. A standard torc is a unique Celtic necklace or bracelet style that served as a status symbol on the Emerald Isle.

Torcs can come in different colors and materials. However, they are always in an arc shape and some are made of twisted metal. They hang closely around the neck or wrist.

Many Irish jewelers have created modern designs that retain the rich Celtic history of torcs, all the while adopting today's contemporary style. Check out my post on Irish torcs to learn more about the significance of Celtic torcs.

Claddagh Ring

The Claddagh ring is one of the most popular types of traditional Irish jewelry. This ring type has a Claddagh symbol, an image of two hands holding a heart with a crown.

There are many vintage jewellery designs for Claddagh rings, but more modern designs tend to be sleek yet exquisite.

Eileen, a goldsmith in County Cork, is one of Ireland's skilled artisans producing unique pieces and contemporary jewelery in her workshop.

Many of these Celtic rings generally come in sterling silver, and they are a great way to bring awareness to Irish history in your day-to-day life. Most are hallmarked by the Irish Assay Office in the Dublin Castle, so do check your retailer provides this certificate of authenticity.

Many people of Irish heritage choose these rings as their wedding bands, symbolizing their dedication to friendship, loyalty and love.

Please read my post about the history, details, and meaning behind Claddagh rings for more information.

Celtic Trinity Knot Necklace 

There are many different types of Celtic knots, and one you should know about is the Celtic trinity knot, a beloved symbol also known as the Irish love knot. 

These Celtic knot designs can be used in necklaces, engagement rings, wedding rings, and bracelets. The symbol is thought to represent love and life, and depending on your religion, it can have many different meanings.

Many types of jewelry prominently display this symbol, and others delicately weave it in.

Shamrock Jewelry

Shamrocks are the most well-known Irish symbol in American culture. Legend has it they rose in popularity as an Irish symbol because of St Patrick's influence.

He used a three-leaf clover to explain the three-in-one nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. After he passed away, people used shamrocks to remember his legacy.

Because Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, this piece of history was critical and has stuck around for a long time.

Connemara Marble offers exquisite shamrock pendants featuring this unique Irish stone.

Shouls you like to learn more about the history of shamrocks in Irish culture, you can read my post about the history, legends, and modern representation of shamrocks.

Celtic Cross Jewelry

The Celtic cross is one of the most prominent symbols due to its unique design. Celtic crosses are known for having a circle around the middle of the cross that connects all the arms.

It represents infinite love, Christian values, and pride in your Irish culture.

You can easily swap in jewelry with Celtic crosses if you love cross necklaces and earrings.

Irish Harp Jewelry

Harps have stood the test of time as a symbol of Ireland. If you think of the Guinness logo, that's the type of thing to picture when you think about Irish harps. If you visit Ireland, you can see ancient harps preserved from Celtic times.

If you love seeing or performing music, jewelry with Irish harps would be a great option to help you celebrate your culture.

Irish Jewelry Gifts

These types of Irish jewelry would be great for you to purchase for yourself or as gift items for special occasions.

I love getting one piece of jewelry for yourself and a matching one for a family member.

Are you a proud supporter of Irish jewellery designers? If you have a favorite jeweler who creates symbolic Irish jewelry, drop them below in the comments! I love learning how others show off their family history and cultural values.