Celtic wedding rings: tradition, story, and choosing

Wedding rings are symbolic representations of the union between two people. For this reason, finding the perfect wedding ring can be a difficult task. Celtic wedding rings offer several different designs and styles that couples may choose from. As a possible option, Celtic wedding rings come in a variety of styles, each with its own history, tradition, and meaning.

Claddagh:

Named after the Irish fishing village of the same name, the Claddagh ring is adored by people throughout the world for its representation of love and friendship. The Claddagh consists of a heart that is surrounded by loving hands and a crown that is placed above the heart.

The Claddagh ring is a popular source of history and legend. The creation of the Claddagh ring is popularly attributed to Richard Joyce; a 17th Century fisherman who was separated from the love of his life after pirates captured him. Sold into slavery, Richard was trained by a goldsmith and used his knowledge to craft a ring to represent his love. After being released from slavery years later, Richard returned to Claddagh and gave the ring to the lady he loved, whom he later married. Richard then started a shop in Claddagh and engraved the earliest rings with his initials.

The Claddagh ring is a symbol of the power of love and friendship. Each part of the ring is symbolic: the hands represent friendship, the crown represents loyalty, and the heart is symbolic of love. When the ring is worn on the right hand with the heart pointed outwards, it means that the wearer is single. A ring that is worn on the right hand with the heart turned inwards indicates that the wearer of the ring is taken. A Claddagh ring that is worn on the left hand with the heart turned inwards means that the person is happily married, never to be separated. Because of its well-known meanings, the Claddagh ring is a popular representation of the union of marriage.

Celtic Knot:

The Celtic Knot is a popular symbol that is seen throughout ancient Celtic artwork. The ancient Celts based their artwork on geometric shapes, and it is estimated that there are eight basic pattern types. Although the exact meaning of Celtic Knotwork is not known, the patterns are commonly considered as representations of the way that life interconnects in an endless cycle. The Celtic Knot is represented in a variety of ways, including the following:

- Trinity Knot – The Trinity Knot consists of three points that are interconnected in a triangle. This pattern is often considered to have several meanings that involve both Christian and Celtic beliefs. Using Christian symbolism, the knot represents the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. As a Celtic symbol, the ring is representative of the Triple Gods and Goddesses of the ancient Celts. Often called the “Love Knot,” the pattern symbolizes the growth of the spirit, life that is eternal, and love that never ends.

- Triskele – The triskele pattern is composed of three interlocking spirals that have a variety of representations, including fertility, reincarnation, the three domains of existence (creation, preservation, and destruction), and the phases of the moon. As a symbol of everlasting love, the triskele as the center design can be surrounded on either side by initials. As a possible option, the triskele ring engraved with initials is a symbol of commitment and eternity.

With varying representations, Celtic wedding rings offer a variety of options for couples looking for a representation of their love. Since there are a variety of designs to choose from, with Celtic wedding rings, couples can select the type of ring that is best suited for them.