I know it’s a little early to be talking about Christmas, but as you may know, each piece of jewelry on Irish Celtic Jewels is specially made to order and can take up to three weeks to be manufactured.

Depending on what shipping method you choose, shipping can take anywhere from overnight (Fedex) to 14 days for delivery (Registered Post). Please note, that shipping time does NOT include manufacturing time.

With all this in mind, if you’re planning on purchasing a Celtic jewelry item as a Christmas gift, I recommend placing the order by Wednesday, December 2nd. You can still order after this date, and have it delivered for Christmas, but if you’re in any doubt about delivery for Christmas, please email me at leighm@irishcelticjewels.com, anytime.

Spirals are dominant motifs in Celtic art prior to the Christian influence on the Celts, which began around 450 A.D., and are prominently displayed on ancient artifacts dating long before the arrival of Christians.

We know that these symbols are of great cultural and spiritual importance to the Druids of ancient Ireland. These people were by no means primitive and the intricacy of their art, despite how hard they had to work, is testimony to the significance they placed in the symbols behind their beliefs.

Druidism however did not allow the writing down of such secrets. Christians and Vikings were never given access to the wisdom of Ireland’s first great people and we can only speculate about these mysterious and elusive giants of Irish history.

The craft was adopted of course by Christians and can still be seen on the Celtic crosses and stone engravings from the years after St Patrick converted the Irish people.

Today, the spirit is kept alive by traditional Celtic craftsmen such as ourselves and bronze craft workshops such as Irish Celtic Art Studio. Examples of hand carvings that hold true to the old Celtic techniques include the engravings that surround these Old Irish Blessings and Celtic Crosses.

Although the spiral can also be seen in artwork from the Middle East and Ancient Rome it is clear that the artifacts unearthed from stone age Ireland weigh far more heavily in terms of spiritual significance.

Summer is still going strong, but it won’t be long before the first fall fashions make an appearance in stores.

Giving some thought to your wardrobe this autumn can be fun with our overview of fall fashion trends for 2009.

Adding the right jewelry to your new looks can also amp up your style for the coming season.

Celtic jewelry is a timeless complement to many classic fall styles. Sweaters, boots, and rich, autumnal tones will be even more appealing when they are accessorized with Claddagh rings or stunning Celtic pendants.

Here is a quick guide to the hottest looks for cooler weather, straight from the runways and fashion magazines:

Vests - This practical accessory was everywhere during the Fall runway shows. Every type of vest, from rugged shearling to faux-fur, was represented. A vest is easy to wear because it doesn’t restrict movement, but still adds warmth around the torso.

If you are considering a vest for your fall wardrobe, you should accessorize with an ornate Celtic Cross pendant in yellow or white gold. The timeless symbol of the ringed cross will work well with this look.

Jewel Tone Pallettes – What better accessory for the sleek, jewel-toned sheath dresses and separates on fall runways than…jewels themselves?

Take advantage of the flattering range of rich tones, such as burgundy and dark emerald green and add on a Silver Birthstone Claddagh Ring for a coordinated look.

There is no need to buy your own birthstone if you prefer another color! Get creative and find a rich garnet or deep sapphire shade that will complement your new clothes.

Makeup Trends For Fall 2009 – While some women prefer to go natural, most women enjoy experimenting with makeup that changes from season to season.

In the fall collections, models were wearing shades of purple on lids, cheeks, and lips. Plum and purple shades complement another hot fashion trends for fall – hot pink outerwear! These cool shades all work together very well.

If you are thinking about Celtic earrings for fall, consider makeup trends as well. If you are wearing plummy, purple hues on your lips or elsewhere on your face, choosing earrings that play up this palette will make you look amazing.

Trinity Knot And Amethyst Earrings will be your best choice for a Celtic accessory that matches the latest makeup looks.

The shine and glow of teardrop-shaped, dark-lilac amethysts will enhance your beauty. As well, each Trinity Knot is a symbol of faith and spirituality.

With Celtic jewelry, you can meld the styles of today with a touch of ancient beauty.

Give your fall style uniqueness and a touch of handcrafted artistry by adding Celtic jewelry designs to accessorize your outfits. The most stylish women always add different elements to their ensembles, in order to make them their own.

You may find yourself reaching for Celtic jewelry pieces day in and day out, as they are so versatile and classic. The timeless appeal of Celtic symbols and handmade designs will linger far longer than the fashion trends of today.

Tags: Celtic, jewelry, fall, styles, Claddagh, rings, makeup, trends, fall, 2009, Trinity, Knot, Amethyst, Earrings, jewel, tone, sheath, dresses

Giving a traditional Irish gift can be great fun for the giver and for the recipient. The rich Irish cultural tradition has given rise to all manner of exquisite folk art and crafts, music, and poetry.

If someone you care about is of Irish ancestry, a gift from Ireland itself will be thoughtful and meaningful. He or she will find it satisfying to connect with the past through the symbols and stories of Ireland.

Choosing the right Irish present will require a little understanding of the popular symbols used in today’s arts and crafts. If you are considering a gift of Irish jewelry, such as a Shamrock pendant, you may wonder what the trefoil (three-leaf) design really means. We’ve compiled a quick guide to the most common symbols you will find on today’s designs. We’ve also put together a few great suggestions for gift ideas.

Common Irish Symbols

The Shamrock – Saint Patrick used the little green plant, with its 3 leaves, to illustrate the presence of God in the natural world. Each leaf represented a part of the Holy Trinity. The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit were symbolized in each segment of the Shamrock. This timeless symbol of faith is recognized all over the world as uniquely Irish.

The Claddagh Crowned Heart- The Claddagh Crowned Heart appears most often on traditional rings, pendants and earrings. It can also be found on crafts, in coffee table books on Celtic art, and even on CD covers. The Claddagh Crowned Heart is a symbol of romantic fidelity and undying love.

An Irish fisherman crafted the first Claddagh Ring, known as the Royal Claddagh Ring. He was a slave, who had been captured while working at sea, far from his native Ireland. He made the ring, which also featured two tiny hands, holding onto a crowned heart, to show his loyalty to the woman he left behind. Eventually, he was reunited with her.

Interlace – Knot work patterns are a prominent feature in Irish art treasures, such as The Book Of Kells, which depicts stories from the Gospel. Knot work, or interlace, is thought to symbolize the interconnectedness of all things. It appears today in a number of forms. One popular example of knot work is the Trinity Knot, which, much like the Shamrock, illustrates the Holy Trinity.

Fun Irish Gift Ideas

• Music – From the atmospheric sounds of Enya, to the driving rock of U2, to the more adult-oriented sound of The Corrs, modern Irish music really displays an awesome scope of sounds and styles. If you prefer traditional Irish music, consider instrumental CD’s featuring the pan flute and bodhrain, two Irish instruments that offer a unique sound. Search iTunes under Celtic or Irish music, or ask music store staff what is popular.
• Claddagh Jewelry – A classic Claddagh Ring is a truly Irish gift that also features handcrafted quality. A Claddagh Ring made in Ireland will be a token of affection that is worn and treasured for a lifetime. You can also find Claddagh Pendants and earrings, to make a matched set.
• Books – A coffee table book, perhaps on The Book Of Kells, or on Celtic and Irish symbolism, will be a great present for someone with Irish ancestry. Many of these books offer gorgeous, full-color illustrations of the symbols we’ve talked about here.
• Shamrocks – There are many fun ways to give the Shamrock! One fun idea would be a Shamrock planter, which often features a shamrock-shaped base as well. Giving living Shamrocks to someone of Irish background will be a touching way to honor their heritage. If you want a really stunning gift, add a diamond Shamrock pendant, and give it along with the planter.

Tags: Celtic, art, claddagh, ring, Irish, gifts, Shamrock, pendant, Trinity, Knot

When you are shopping for that perfect wedding ring, it can be overwhelming thinking about all of the different options available to you. You have to think about things like metal, cut of diamonds, style, jeweler…and the list goes on. Don’t get discouraged: there are a few simple things to keep in mind when shopping for wedding rings that will make finding the perfect ring a snap.

Learn about the different types of metals that are available? Are you more partial to silver jewelry on a daily basis? Look for wedding rings made from silver or its fancier counterpart, white gold. If you prefer gold jewelry and want your forever ring to have the golden sheen, pick a gold wedding ring. Ask the jeweler you are working with about the durability and care for each metal, and think about your daily lifestyle and what you will be putting the ring through: this too can help determine your choice.

Shop around. It is crucial to find a jeweler that you feel comfortable working with, one you know is helping to find you the ring that best suits your needs and style, and it not just trying to make a sale. Make sure to ask about their guarantee policy and customer support options, and if you get a feeling that they are trying to push you into a ring you don’t like or want, run the other way and don’t look back.

Think about your own personal style. If you tend to wear unique jewelry on a daily basis, you might be well suited to something like Celtic wedding rings, which have a look all their own and rich history to boot. If you favor more simple styles, look for more modest wedding bands that won’t overshadow your classic look.

Learn about diamonds: shape, cut, color, clarity. Knowing about the different diamond choices available will help you feel more educated and empowered in your decision making process.

To learn more about Celtic wedding rings, visit Irish Celtic Jewels. We feature the best in Celtic jewelry that is crafted in Ireland. We feature a large selection of Celtic engagement rings and wedding bands, so you can feel confident that you will find something to suit your needs. We have the highest in quality customer service and superior products, and guarantee you will always find what you are looking for.

Tags: wedding, ring, guide, find, style, diamonds, 4, Cs, gold, Celtic

When days grow longer and the first signs of spring approach, it can be exhilarating. Spring days call for different fashion choices, such as lighter fabrics and cheery, bright colors. You may want to consider spicing up your jewelry collection with some stunning Irish designs this season. Adding a shot of color is easy with the timeless beauty of these pieces. As well, Irish jewelry really captures the essence of spring through its symbols and intricate patterns, which are often inspired by nature.

If you are interested in finding a great starting point for an Irish jewelry collection that flatters the new fashions of springtime, consider a fun Shamrock pendant you can wear with anything. A diamond and white gold Shamrock pendant is always a recognizable sign of the Emerald Isle, and it also carries a deeper meaning.

The delicate, trefoil (three-pointed) design of the Shamrock was used by Ireland’s St. Patrick to illustrate the presence of the Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit in the natural world. What better way to celebrate the advent of spring, than with a botanical symbol of eternal life and love?

A lot of designs you’ll find in Irish jewelry take their cue from nature. For example, the artisans of the Middle Ages crafted delicate animal shapes known as zoomorphic symbols out of precious metals. Today, the master craftsmen of Ireland carry on the ancient Celtic traditions in their rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Popular motifs such as Trinity Knots use the same trefoil concept found on the Shamrock to show faith in God. Although the Trinity Knot is a more stylized shape than the rounded Shamrock, it is still derived from the same origins, and carries the same powerful symbolism. Trinity Knots are part of the time-honored tradition of Celtic interlace (knot work) that can be found on art treasures such as the Book of Kells, which depicts scenes of the Gospels.

You can also enjoy the gleaming green beauty of emeralds in a variety of Irish jewelry styles. Emeralds are an excellent way to add fresh, springlike color to your jewelry wardrobe. Although most emeralds come from African nations such as Zambia, they are still used to great effect in designs such as Emerald Claddagh rings.

Claddagh Rings combine whimsical, romantic symbols in order to express a sentiment of undying love and affection. The tiny hands, clasping a crowned heart, are meant to demonstrate the eternal nature of true love. Adding a bright, shining green emerald is a great way to put a modern take on a timeless classic this spring.

The carefully faceted beauty of a heart-shaped emerald will catch the light and flatter the brighter wardrobe colors of the season. If you worry about the expense of emeralds, consider a created emerald (made in a lab). It will have the same beauty and composition as the original stone, without the added cost.

There are so many ways to celebrate the sense of rebirth that comes each spring. Enjoying flowers, sunshine, and the beauty of velvety green grass all come to mind. Add some fun and symbolism to your spring jewelry wardrobe through the colors and botanical influences of Irish designs. You’ll find they mesh beautifully with the spirit of the season.

Tags: Claddagh, ring, spring, jewelry, shamrock, Trinity, knots, fashion

Capturing the romantic spirit of the Irish people can make for a lovely date night with your partner. You can create a special meal that offers your loved one a glimpse into Irish history and tradition. If you’ve chosen a special piece of Irish jewelry for someone you love, you can add a sense of occasion by presenting your gift during an Irish meal that is delicious and easy to make.

First, consider atmosphere. Light emerald green candles in votives and place them on the table and around the room. The gentle green glow will be a charming homage to the Emerald Isle itself. Some atmospheric Irish music, such as Enya, will instantly create the romantic effect you want.

Soft music and candlelight will make your gift of Irish jewelry seem more romantic and more important. Make your proposal or gift giving more unforgettable by setting the scene for the one you love. They will never forget your thoughtfulness.

Consider buying some fine Irish single malt whiskey, or even some cans of rich, dark Guinness Beer, and toast one another. Make sure to serve the beer in pint glasses for a pub feeling. For whiskey, do not add ice. In Ireland, whiskey is generally drunk at room temperature, and served neat (no mixer). For a genuine Irish feel, drink the whiskey straight up.

Consider Irish soda bread for an appetizer. Buy real butter and enjoy the hearty taste of this traditional Irish fare before your main course. Cut small slices and present them on a platter, alongside the rest of the loaf. Create a prettier appetizer by adding some wedges of imported Irish Cheddar cheese, artfully arrayed.

For your main course, a lovely Irish stew, made with fresh lamb, will be aromatic and delectable. Serve the stew in pretty earthenware bowls for a rustic effect. Be sure that you find a recipe you can count on – the Irish stew should be quite easy to make and feature the freshest meat and produce available.

Websites like Epicurious will offer wonderful options for true Irish stew, which will always feature lamb, rather than beef. Other key ingredients to look for will be potatoes, pearl barley, thyme, and carrots.

If you are proposing or giving a special gift of Irish jewelry for a special occasion (or no occasion at all!), you should plan a fun dessert that will polish off the meal in style. Dessert and a nice drink will be the perfect prelude and make your partner feel relaxed and pampered before they receive their present.

One great option for a dessert with an Irish twist is a simple scoop of the best vanilla ice cream, served in a champagne glass. Top the ice cream with a drizzle of Bailey’s Irish Cream for a delicious combination of complementary flavors. After a hearty meal, the cool, refreshing taste of ice cream will be pleasing to the palate. Any Irish liqueur you enjoy can be used here. If you prefer, serve the ice cream alone and drink the Bailey’s in little liqueur glasses. Or perhaps brew some gourmet coffee and make Irish coffee as your dessert.

You can enjoy a lovely dessert, and present your Celtic ring, pendant or earrings in the perfect atmosphere. You partner will be touched by the effort you’ve made to please them. This night could be one you always remember…

Tags: Irish, meal, romantic, enya, soda, bread, stew, guinness, whiskey

Spring is a time of regeneration. After a long winter, thoughts may turn to lighter clothing and new fashion trends for the season. If you are considering some upgrading of your wardrobe for spring, perhaps you are also considering some new jewelry to add a shot of color to your new look.

Irish jewelry is known for its intricate metalwork and its careful use of inlaid gems. For centuries, the Irish were renowned for their mastery in jewelry design. To this day, Irish art treasures, crafted of precious metals, rest in museums, as a testament to the skill and passion of Celtic artisans.

The traditions remain alive today, but modern Irish jewelry designers take into account the latest fashion trends and design features. The melding of past and present allows today’s pieces to play many roles.

You can wear a special ring, pendant or earrings for a variety of occasions. From special pieces for a Spring wedding, to everyday styles you will never take off, Irish jewelry can become a treasured collectible with timeless appeal.

Here is our top five list of fashion trends for women this season, along with complementary jewelry pieces you can wear for a finished look:

5.) Gold Tones – According to Vogue magazine, gold and other burnished metallics are a popular choice for women’s wear this spring. Runway shows featured soft fabrics in muted metallic tones for pants and tops.

Accent your new wardrobe with gold Irish jewelry that will pick up the subtle glimmer in your ensemble. Some bright choices for spring are intricate Saint Bridget’s Cross pendants, with “woven” details, or Claddagh pendants that feature birthstones for a pop of color. The symbols of love, faith and loyalty that are represented in Saint Bridget’s Cross, and in the crowned hearts found on Claddagh designs, add a touch of mystery and deeper meaning to your jewelry.

4.) Ruffled Bridal Gowns – A return to true femininity in bridal designs was a feature of spring runway shows. Ruffled wedding gowns with crinolines and volume were standout choices for the season. Accent a frilly, ballerina-inspired wedding dress with pearl drop Trinity Knot earrings and matching pendant. The teardrop shape of the lustrous, cultured pearls in these white-gold designs will be the perfect complement to a strapless bodice and full skirt.

3.) Wild Color Combinations – The grouping of two bright colors in a single ensemble was a vivid trend on runways during the spring collections. This daring trend is known as color blocking, and it relies on mixes such as bright pink and red, or hot yellow and electric blue. For a matching jewelry look, consider a bright emerald ring that features shimmering diamonds set around a central, deep-green emerald.

Bold color choices call for equally bold accessories, so look for a cocktail ring such as an emerald and diamond cluster Celtic ring. This ring will also feature intricate knot work that makes it stand out from the rest.

2.) Retro Denim – Pale denims with an Eighties’ feel were very common on runway this season, and they often featured special washes that added dimension to simple shapes. Jeans this year are tapered to the ankle, and worn with high-heeled sandals and military jackets.

To add a touch of Celtic beauty to your retro casual wear, consider a classic Claddagh ring in gold or silver for this spring. The Claddagh ring was worn by Bono frequently during the Eighties, as the perfect complement to his structured jackets and slim jeans. This look can work beautifully for women as well.

1.) Nude Tones – Gentle, earthy nude tones were all over spring runways, and they require soft, subtle jewelry choices to keep the look refined. A gold and diamond Celtic Cross Pendant will add a touch of richness and beauty to nude designs without being too bold. The sophisticated knot work and tiny gems of a traditional Celtic Cross pendant will flow well with soft fabrics and flowy shapes.

Tags: irish, jewelry, spring, fashion, claddagh, pendants

The Irish storytelling tradition is rich with spirituality, mythology, and history: even today, the Irish people carry on the traditions of their ancestors, when contributing to the arts. Specifically, many examples of Irish influence in books, music, and jewelry design can be found today, as the popularity of Irish symbols and traditional songs and stories continues to intrigue and influence new generations.

Worldwide, the Irish are linked with Christianity, and with poetry, music and design that capture the link between the Father, the Son, and The Holy Spirit. While many outside Ireland may view the country as the home of fictional leprechauns and pots of gold, the true symbols of this nation are less lighthearted in nature: they are sincere symbols of faith and loyalty that have endured since the fifth century.

Common, ancient symbols of Ireland are the Celtic Crosses that dot churchyards and monasteries all over the country, as well as the intricate knot work that decorates sacred texts, such as the Irish Book of Kells. More well known globally is the revered Shamrock, used by Saint Patrick to convert the ancient Irish populations to Christianity.

These symbols remain popular choices today for Irish artisans, who may add a modern sensibility to their designs, while creating jewelry that utilizes these traditional symbols. Here are some modern examples of literature, music and Celtic jewelry designs, where the past and the present meet, forming a stunning hybrid of now and then.

Irish Influence in Literature

Irish authors rely on the traditions of the past to bring their works of fiction and autobiography to life for modern readers. Poignant stories such as Angela’s Ashes, and ‘Tis, by renowned writer Frank McCourt, incorporate the traditional religious beliefs and cultural mores of Ireland for a new generation.

Modern Irish poets, such as William Butler Yeats, used the myths and stories of ancient Ireland to give their verses power and resonance. Poet Seamus Heaney also references ancient Ireland in his modern verse. Many poetry anthologies, such as Modern Irish Poetry: An Anthology , edited by Patrick Crotty, group together fine examples of new world verse that takes it cue from the stories and beliefs of the past.

Irish Influence in Music

Irish musicians look to the past when they compose music, even if they do not play traditional Irish folk music. For example, modern rock band The Hothouse Flowers used traditional Irish instruments, including the bodhran, to add an authentic Irish feel to their compositions. Best-selling musicians U2, and Enya, also rely on certain elements of traditional Irish music when composing their tunes. Sinead O’Connor’s classic album, The Lion and The Cobra, used many elements of Irish traditional music, but with a darker edge that made it her own.

Irish Influence in Jewelry Design

The ancient people of Ireland were known throughout the world for their exquisite metalwork. The master craftsmen of ancient Ireland were felt to have attained the highest level of artistry in metalwork. A notable example of an Irish relic that used intricate craftsmanship of gold, silver, and precious jewels is the Ardagh Chalice, with its traditional Celtic spirals and warrior symbols.

Today, Irish jewelry designers utilize similar spirals, traditional knot work, and other common symbols of ancient Irish culture, to create pieces of great beauty and meaning. For example, you may find pendants, earrings, and rings in gold and silver that feature delicate Trinity Knots, or Celtic Crosses.

Tags: celtic, jewelry, irish, literature, music, book, kells

Any orders taken from today, December 15th, we cannot guarantee delivery in time for Christmas. Orders taken after today will most likely make it for Christmas; we just can’t guarantee that it will.

If you are concerned at all about getting an item in time for Christmas, please contact me directly on 1800-781-0904 from the US and on +353-1-2070811 from the rest of the world. You can also email me on leighm@irishcelticjewels.com

Business hours:
9:30am – 5:30pm GMT, Monday to Friday

Equivalent US hours:
4:30am – 12:30pm Eastern Time (United States), Monday to Friday
1:30am – 9:30am Pacific Time (United States), Monday to Friday

Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Leigh Maher

Tags: christmas,, shipping,, guarantee,, dates