Celtic Symbols

There is an undeniable aura that surrounds Celtic designs and Druid traditions. Although I have strong family ties to both Ireland and Scotland, you don’t need a Celtic heritage to be enticed by the culture. It’s been said that as long as you respect Mother Earth and feel an affinity with the Celtic people you too have a Celtic soul.

The meanings behind all of the spirals, knots, labyrinths, and crosses have intrigued many people for many centuries. Since you will find all of these symbols in this book, a brief explanation of some of the more popular interpretations are listed on below:

Celtic Knots:

Quite possibly the most recognized of all the Celtic symbols is the knot. The elaborately interwoven design with no end and no beginning is thought to be an expression of the Celts’ belief in eternity. The Druids and the ancient Celts believed in a life without end, with death only being a transition into a new phase. While all knot patterns contain this element of life-everlasting, certain designs are believed to carry more specific meanings.

For example, the triquestra or trefoil knot points to the importance the Druid’s placed on the number 3, the number of fate. This design was such a hallmark of the Celtic people that Irish Christians found a way to bring it into their new faith by adopting the symbol as a representation of the Blessed Trinity.

Spirals:

There seems to be a lot of debate as to the true meaning of spirals in Celtic art. The direction of the spiral and the number of rotations appears to affect the meaning behind the image, therefore we will discuss some specific configurations.

Triple Spiral- is also known as the triple Goddess or triskele, symbolizing the maiden/mother/crone phases of life or the three phases of the Moon.

Double Spiral- signifies balance. Also believed to portray the equinox, a time when day and night are equal in length.

Clockwise Spiral- While the Druids tended to favor the Moon in their symbolism, this design is actually a representation of the Sun. A loosely wound spiral would embody an expansive summer sun while a tightly wound spiral expressed the shortened days and long nights of winter.

Labyrinth or Step Patterns:

Symbolic of the journey we take in life, the labyrinth was often used during prayer or meditation. Focusing on the design reminds us that life is full of options, and open doors, as well as obstacles to overcome.

Circles:

Finally, we come to the simple circle, the building block for mandalas as well as Celtic imagery. Much like Gods’ love, the circle is never ending. It is a universal symbol of the cycle of life; birth-death-rebirth. The intertwining of circles is the basis for many Celtic knots with the number of circles often symbolizing something more.

Note that by combining 3 circles the aforementioned triquestra knot is formed in the center. On the other hand, five circles linked together form the circle of being; a Druid illustration of the four earthly elements being forever united by a fifth element, balance.

Celtic ancient jewellery is composed of various symbols and designs like trinity knots, spiral, Celtic crosses, and knot work which had religiously significant meanings for the Celts. Celtic sterling silver jewellery and Celtic & Irish charms and earrings are quite popular all over the world. Cross pendants and trinity knot bracelets are also liked by a lot of people. Many kinds of stones and metals were used in this type of jewellery to decorate and create swirls and interlocking designs. Celtic crosses are worn as an identity of Irish and Scottish roots. These crosses are still available in sterling silver and often complemented with gemstones and diamonds.

Irish Claddagh jewellery and tattoos are also quite popular. The Claddagh symbol is around 300 years old. This type of jewellery is named after a village in Ireland called the Claddagh. The symbol consists of two hands supporting a heart with a crown. This is a unique concept which can be applied to a number of examples from everyday life. Some people say it represents the love between a mother and her child, while others claim that it symbolizes the eternal love between husband and wife. You can find Irish Claddagh rings in 18k gold decorated with a beautiful heart-shaped gemstone. This type of a ring can also be given as a lovely present to your loved one.

Three-legged emblem in Celtic ancient jewellery represents three aspects of life or three spheres; land, sea and sky. It is also known as the triskele or triskelion. This symbol has its roots in the ancient Sicilian culture and has been seen on various Greek coins. The three-legged spiral symbolized the trinity in many cultures after the pagan and medieval times ended. It is now seen on contemporary jewellery articles from various countries. Other popular symbols in Celtic art include the clockwise spiral, the anti-clockwise spiral, two spirals with clockwise rotation, a double spiral and some variations of these basic patterns.

While looking for ancient jewellery some people are also interested in finding lucky and astrological jewellery. One can find lovely pendants for each sign of the Zodiac in Celtic jewellery. These pendants are made of metal alloys and pewter. Celtic astrology is quite interesting. You will find symbols engraved on these pendants based on some ancient scripts. According to Celtic astrology, people who are born in the month of January are trustworthy and ambitious. Those born in October love to travel. December represents evil and bluntness. Similarly, all months represent some characteristics.

In Celtic ancient jewellery you can find beautiful rings, bracelets, brooches, necklaces and earrings. Bangles with engraved sign language can also be found in this category. If you like antique items, you will love this type of jewellery. Celtic necklaces are composed of shields and heart-shaped pendants made of sterling silver with beads and gemstones. Celtic engagement rings are quite popular in Ireland and Scotland. Many people also love to wear Celtic charms in bracelets and chains. In addition to these, one can find lovely coin jewellery and Celtic warrior jewellery in this category which is unique and simply exquisite.