Celtic Engagement Rings - Using the History and Symbolism of Ireland in Your Wedding

Celtic engagement rings have become increasingly trendy among couples today, especially since they can be customized to suit the individual wearing them. Celtic ring designs can be in the form of the Claddagh style or the spirals or trinity knots.

When choosing Celtic engagement rings many couples tend to choose the Celtic knot aka the Lovers knot. They like this design as it represents infinity, love and unity, the words that every marriage wants to define them.

There are not many recorded points of information regarding to the exact meaning of the Celtic rings, which could possibly be one of the reasons why people are drawn to its design.

Just because the Celtic engagement rings don't have much documented information on its meaning does not mean that it can't be meaningful to you. You can customize the rings to give it your own meaning or choose from a wide selection of rings.

Another design is the Claddagh set of rings. The Claddagh ring has a past of its own when it comes to the symbolic meaning of engagements. However, many people love it as it is seen as a beautiful jewelry creation.

Another thing that couples love to have in their rings design is the Celtic cross. No matter what denomination or religion that people associate themselves with, the common belief among all is that the love of God will guide their shared life.

These engagement rings will draw on old traditional designs to create the new designs of today. This translates into a seemingly endless list of possibilities.

Finally when choosing Celtic engagement rings for you and your spouse you will be given the opportunity to choose the design, metal and stone that you desire in order to make it your very own creation.

Celtic engagement rings are steeped in tradition and history. If you want to have a ring that has a lot of meaning and symbolism, you should really consider one of these rings. Not only are they unique, but they are beautiful as well. You can see some examples of these rings here: http://www.CelticJewelryRings.com.

Symbolism Behind Celtic Engagement Rings

The Celts are a group of tribal societies that inhabited of Europe during the Iron Age. They are said to have a rich culture established with their language, religion and most of all, a unique way of life. Their tribe is separated by three groups: the warriors and the aristocrats, the intellectuals and the commoners. Each group has their own role to play in their community. Warriors and aristocrats are for expansion and maintenance of peace, the intellectuals are teachers, poets and historians while the rest are common laborers, tasked to supply the other needs of their tribe. Early Celts are also known to make a living through barter and trade of metal craft. Their smiths are famous for forging weapons and beautiful jewelry.

Today, their designs and their symbolism has transcended time and land boundaries. Bits and pieces of Celtic tradition are now prominent in architecture, fashion, body art and of course, jewelry. Celtic engagement rings are slowly making their way in the market. They are in demand because of their unique design and they meaning that lies behind every symbol.

Celtic engagement rings are usually adorned by three symbols:
o Triquetra
o Celtic Knot
o Claddagh

The Triquetra
The Triquetra is the Celtic version of trinity. It takes a form of a triangle and stands for a persona and special things that exists in three fold. In Christian religion, it can be the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. In neopaganism, it can stand for the three divisions of the earth: land, sea and sky. For Celts, it is a usual part of their engagement ring because it symbolizes time. It is the past, present and future. It means that the love and commitment symbolized by the ring transcends time and space.

Celtic Knot
The interlaced knots are perhaps the most famous among all Celtic symbols. More often, they are found in carpets, pillars and facades of building and places of worship like churches and mosques. It is special because despite its intricate design, it has the characteristic of a circle. It is something with no beginning and no end. To lovers, it is a commitment of love that knows no end or boundaries.

Claddagh
The Claddagh is a symbol with two hands, clasping a heart with a crown. The heart stands for friendship and the crown is a symbol of loyalty. It is a tangible representation of the words: "With my two hands I give you my heart, and crown it with my love."

In Ireland, a Claddagh ring can acquire a different meaning depending on the how the ring is worn. For example, if it is worn on the left hand with the heart facing outwards, that means that the wearer is already engaged. If the heart is facing inwards that means that the person is already married. However, if the ring is worn on the left hand with the heart facing inwards, it means that the wearer is in a relationship or that someone else owns his or her heart. If worn outwards it means that the person is in search of love.

These symbolic meanings make Celtic engagement rings stand out from the rest. It gives the usual engagement ring a different twist and a deeper meaning.

Leigh Maher researches and writes about Celtic jewelry, and specialises in Celtic wedding rings, engagement rings and bridal jewelry. Click here for more information about Celtic engagement ring.