Once you’ve started exploring your genealogy, it can become a pleasant addiction. It’s fascinating to learn about the people who came before you.

In some cases, researching your ancestors will allow you to learn about their accomplishments, adversities, and unique stories.

Every family has its dramas, hardships, and poignant moments: by delving deeper into your own Irish ancestry, you can open up a whole new connection to the past.

But how do you get started? There are some ways to begin that can be easy for you. We’ve outlined the proper ways to begin your search.

Consider putting together a scrapbook about your ancestors: scrap booking is a great way to share your journey.

Take your scrapbook to family reunions and other big events, in order to let everyone know the fascinating story of your clan’s Celtic background.

Here are some tips on how to research your Irish ancestry:

Trace By Clan Name -

Many popular Irish clan names can be tracked via the Internet, free of charge. These websites will allow you to check your Clan’s name against important information, such as which county they tended to live in.

By gaining some valuable background information about where your Clan derived from, you can begin the journey into your own ancestry.

If you want to show your pride in your own Irish heritage, consider choosing a beautiful gold Celtic pendant that carries a powerful message. The three-leaf plant was used by Saint Patrick to illustrate the presence of the Holy Trinity in the natural world.

Interview Your Older Relatives -

Sometimes, information can get lost through the generations. Fires, wars, and other calamities can destroy records and make your job harder.

By talking to the elderly members of your family, you can gain access to information about your family history.

Chances are, a beloved grandparent or aunt may have some stories that include names, places, and dates. Be sure to take notes as you interview your family member.

If your relatives live far away, write a letter requesting some information. Chances are, they’ll be happy to go through their old photo albums, baby books, and letter to find the facts and stories you are looking for.

They’ll also be able to give you access to rare photographs and copies of important papers.

Getting together over a cup of tea or coffee and listening to your relative talk about your Irish roots, can be one of the most enjoyable, and emotional, ways to learn more about your family.

Men’s Celtic jewelry that captures the spirit of the Celtic Crosses that dot the Irish landscape, marking the graves of those who have passed, can be a tender reminder of the power of faith and love.

Check Property, Birth, and Death Records -

Once you’ve collected all the information you can, you may feel you’ve hit a dead end. Sometimes, you can run back through your family tree, but get blocked when you can’t find the information you need.

Then, it may be time to check into public repositories and libraries that offer access to old records, newspapers articles (on microfiche) and other pertinent information.

Check your local libraries, as well as websites for libraries and repositories near your ancestor’s home counties. Sometimes, you can find a treasure trove of facts and make a real breakthrough.

A Claddagh Pendant that references the romantic storytelling tradition of your ancestors can be a great way to keep their legacy alive in your daily life.

Your Irish ancestors paved the way for your own life and destiny. By honoring their contributions to your family and to the world, you can experience a deeper understanding of who you really are. Begin learning about your Irish ancestry – today!

In this day and age, connecting with your Irish ancestry can be easier than ever. The Internet provides instant access to information about genealogy and Celtic symbolism.

If you are of Irish heritage, you may have a favorite symbol that really evokes your spirit. It could be a spiral, a Claddagh symbol, or perhaps the classic knot work that appears in art treasures like the Book of Kells.

Finding other people who appreciate the beauty of Irish symbols is easier than ever, now that Irish Celtic Jewels has added the Google Friends Connect system to this blog.

You can join a group filled with men and women who share your Irish background, and take part in fun polls and other great features.

If you want to enjoy this new service, simply click on “Join this site” and become a member. You’ll find the Friends Connect system in the right hand column of this page; it’s at the bottom of the column.  Then, you can take our very first poll: What’s Your Favorite Irish Symbol?

How To Choose Your Favorite Irish Symbol

If you are unsure about the symbols and their meanings, we can help! We’ve compiled some in-depth information about what each symbol looks like, and what it really means.

Luckily, the handcrafted Irish jewelry at our online jewelry store often uses these symbols to honor the past.

Some Of These Symbols Have Existed For Thousands Of Years

Since the 6th century, the ancient symbols you will find in our poll have appeared on stone work, metal work, and in art and texts.

More recently, romantic symbols such as the distinctive Claddagh crowned heart and hands, have become an integral part of Irish culture.

We can take you back in time and let you know the significance of each symbol. Then, you may enjoy signing up with Google Friends Connect at our site, so you can choose your favorite. Look over to the right column: click “Join this site” >> : )

Irish Jewelry Is A Wonderful Way To Enjoy These Symbols

You may also want to choose a special piece of jewelry that features the symbol you love. All our gold and silver rings, pendants and earrings offer the highest quality and authenticity.

Each ring, pair of earrings, or necklace is assayed (stamped) at Dublin Castle itself. You will be choosing heirloom-quality that offers a unique and beautiful glimpse into Irish and Celtic symbolism.

Here is a look at the symbols that appear in our poll, with some pieces of jewelry that showcase their intricate beauty and deeper meaning:

Knots

This Celtic engagement ring features delicate knot work that is in keeping with the traditions of centuries past. The central solitaire stone is flanked by ornate Trinity Knots that symbolize the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

For thousands of years, the Trinity Knot has appeared on stone dolmans, High Crosses, and Irish and Celtic artwork.

If you enjoy these hypnotic designs, which seem to flow endlessly into one another, you should choose knots as your favorite symbol in the Google Friends Connect Poll, in the right hand column of this page.

Spirals -

The Celtic spiral’s meanings are tied into the idea of life-force and eternity. The gentle turns of each circle represent the journey through life, death, and rebirth.

These spirals are one of the most ancient and enduring symbols of Irish and Celtic culture. They have been found on burial mounds, stone work, and art treasures, such as the Ardagh Chalice.

This Celtic spiral charm offers a perfect rendering of the ancient symbol, and its silver base supports a delicate, cultured pearl. This charm fits on a Pandora’s Box charm bracelet, or our very own Tara’s Diary Bracelet.

If the spiral resonates with you, you should choose it as your own favorite Irish symbol in our poll.

Claddagh -

The first Claddagh Ring was created by an Irish fisherman, who had been kidnapped at sea and forced to work for a Moorish goldsmith. His true love, Margaret, was always on his mind, and he never stopped dreaming of the time when they would be reunited.

He crafted a ring with touching symbols, to honor their undying love. The crowned heart, held by two tiny hands, was a symbol of loyalty in love.

Today, the Claddagh symbols are used on all manner of rings, earring, and pendants, and these pieces are given as tokens of affection. If you enjoy the romantic Claddagh spirit, choose the Claddagh as your favorite Irish symbol.

Shamrock -

The tender Shamrock plant, with its three green leaves, was used by Saint Patrick to illustrate the presence of the Holy Trinity in the natural world. Each of its segments represented the Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit.

Today, the Shamrock is Ireland’s most recognizable symbols. It appears on flags, logos, and Saint Paddy’s Day hats and shirts.

If you enjoy the faith and spirituality of the Irish Shamrock, consider choosing a Shamrock diamond pendant that is versatile enough for everyday. And be sure to vote for the Shamrock in our Google Friends Connect poll.

Animals -

The Gryffon, a winged lion, is a popular animal symbol.

In Celtic lore, art and mythology, animal (zoomorphic) symbols appear with great frequency. Serpents, gryffons (winged lions), and other animals are used to represent various Celtic clans.

The traits of these animals or mythical beasts are thought to symbolize the strength, cleverness, and 18power of the families they represent. If you love Celtic animal symbols, choose them as your favorite Irish symbol.

Crosses -

Celtic crosses offer a wealth of symbolism, from the four points that symbolize east, west, north and south…to the ringed cross that is a remnant of Pagan Sun worship. In Ireland, Celtic Crosses mark the resting places of those who have passed.

Today, Irish Claddagh Cross pendants, such as the one at left, combine modern Claddagh symbols with other ancient symbols, such as Trinity Knots. They often feature delicate interlace, or knot work, that offers yet another timeless symbol of the Irish people.

If you love the beauty and meaning of Celtic Crosses, be sure to vote for them in our poll.

For most Irish people, English has become their first language. Only a minority of the country can speak Irish at a native level, despite the fact that learning it is a mandatory requirement within the Irish school system.

The most recent consensus indicates that roughly 4% of the country’s six million inhabitants speak Irish Gaeilge as a first language, a number that has continued to shrink over the long term. Irish Gaeilge’s sister language of Scottish Gaelic is in a similar predicament, and Manx Gaelic is now completely extinct as a first language (the three Goidelic languages).

Thankfully more proactive efforts have been made by the Irish government to shore up the language’s user base over the last several decades. Irish was declared the first official language of Ireland, with English being second.

Entry into Ireland’s universities requires a high proficiency level in Irish, and all government officials and civil servants must speak the language in order to serve the country. The Irish language is also on road signs throughout the island, along with English.

Why is Irish on the decline in Ireland? The answer to this question can be found in history. Ireland was never conquered by the Romans, so it’s unique language was left alone in Ireland without much external influence, which obviously allowed the language to thrive and grow for many centuries.

Then in the twelth century the Normans invaded Ireland, with many of the invaders assimilating with the people of Ireland, which obviously had some sway on the local culture and Gaeilge language. This invasion marked the beginning of a wave of English speakers from Britain that would slowly begin to chip away at Gaeilge’s hold in Ireland.

Centuries later country would continue to slip into harsher British control over, and edicts would be passed in an attempt to outlaw the language altogether. These edicts along with the English language acting as a trade language between Ireland and Britain, would eventually cause large portions of Ireland to begin speaking English as a first language.

Despite declining numbers, there is much to be hopeful for if you’re an Irish speaker or enthusiast, as there are very active Gaeilge revival efforts in place in Ireland. Outside of Ireland, there are actually a record number of Gaeilge language learners, as university and private courses have popped up all across Europe and the United States recently.

The road won’t be easy to firmly securing the language’s future, but with thousands of years of history entangled in the language, it’s certainly worth fighting for.

Attending a Celtic festival is a great way to experience all the wonders of Celtic culture, including song, dance, crafts, and food and drink.

Trying something new and reaching out to other people who share your ancestry can be really inspiring.

Creating memories and making new friends is just one facet of a Celtic festival, but it can be the very best part!

If you have a taste for Celtic music and dance, you’ll find these gatherings exceptionally stimulating. Musicians from all over the world meet to play for festival attendees, adding touches of Celtic beauty to all genres of music.

As well, there are often great activities for families at these events, including children’s crafts and games. For grown-ups, the timeless pleasures of jovial nights at Irish pubs, surrounded by friendly faces, can be a real selling point.

We’ve gathered some information about the best new festivals for the upcoming months. We hope you get a chance to participate and enjoy everything that they have to offer.

Here is a look at some fun festivals. Consider a road trip or short flight and make a holiday of it.

Michigan Irish Music Festival -

This Irish music festival takes place from Sept. 18-20, 2009, in downtown Muskegon. Fiddle virtuosos Natalie McMaster and Donnell Leahy are headlining the musical entertainment for this popular event.

Other activities include a fun Limerick “festival” and pub night, as well as inflatable rides and activities for the children.

Before you go, get in the spirit by choosing a fun and beautiful Celtic pendant to wear. The noble Shamrock Pendant is a perfect choice if your ancestry is Irish. Here’s quick look at a pretty Shamrock pendant you’ll be proud to wear.

As you can see, this perfectly crafted pendant really evokes the spirit of the occasion, and it’s highlighted by a sparkling row of diamonds.

Long after the festival ends, you’ll still reach for your Shamrock pendant – you may decide to just leave it on full-time.

Here’s a look at another great festival that will be coming up in the near future.

Milwaukee Irish Fest -

This great Irish festival runs from August 13-15th, 2009, and it takes place at Henry W. Maier Festival Park, just a short shuttle ride from the downtown core.

There is a whole roster of fun entertainment planned for the event. Musical acts such as Slide and Sean Keane will get the crowd dancing on the Main Stage. Plenty of other acts are scheduled as well.

If you love Irish dancing, you’ll enjoy watching the highly skilled McMenamin Dance Academy perform their signature, traditional dances.

A children’s area and a cultural marketplace filled with amazing, Celtic-inspired arts and crafts will allow you to get out and mingle with new friends, knowing your little ones are having a good time at well.

You can count on great Irish food and drink, served up with a smile, at The Jameson Lounge, an Irish pub that will be a popular hub during the two-day celebration.

As you can see, the options for good times are almost unlimited. Broaden your horizons with a little Celtic fun you’ll never forget.

Giving a piece of birthstone jewelry to a friend or loved one is an excellent way to show your affection for them.

Birthstones are colorful and meaningful. They always add special significance to a ring or pendant.

Gemstones have been a source of mystery and fascination for thousands of years. Each birth month has its own signature stone, and often, there are mystical properties associated with each gem.

Whether or not you believe that a gemstone can bestow good luck, health, or some other positive attributes to its wearer, you will enjoy learning about the lore and myths associated with the stones themselves.

Celtic Jewelry with birthstones packs a double punch of symbolism. The Celtic symbols you’ll find on birthstone jewelry also carry their own hidden meanings.

By choosing a mother’s pendant or silver Birthstone Claddagh ring, you can expect to give a gift with a real “story” attached.

In order to let the person you are giving to know the special story behind their ring or pendant, you can study the symbols and properties of birthstones and Celtic designs. We’ve compiled a quick guide to make it all easy.

Irish and Celtic Symbols

The most common symbol found on today’s Irish and Celtic birthstone jewelry designs is the Claddagh Symbol.

The traditional Irish Claddagh Ring is used as a token of affection. It can be a gift of friendship or a declaration of romantic devotion. The first Claddagh Ring was created by Richard Joyce, an Irish fisherman.

Joyce was working on a fishing vessel, far from his native Galway, when his ship was boarded by pirates. He was kidnapped and forced to work for a goldsmith. He left behind the only woman he truly loved, and he never stopped longing for her.

In order to show his undying faithfulness, he created a ring which featured two tiny hands, gently holding a crowned heart.

Years later, when he was granted his freedom , he returned to Ireland and found Margaret waiting for him. He gave her the very first Claddagh Ring, and she wore it always.

When you choose a Claddagh birthstone ring for someone you care about, you are expressing the spirit of friendship and love.

Birthstones

Here is a quick guide by month:

January - Garnet : Dark-red, thought to protect its wearer from nightmares.

February – Amethyst: Pale-purple, thought to bestow peace and calm on its wearer.

March – Aquamarine: Pale blue-green color. Believed to provide protection from drowning.

April – Diamond: Icy white. A symbol of purity. Thought to give strength and power to its wearer.

May – Emerald: Deep-green. Believed to assist the wearer in seeing into the future.

June – Alexandrite: Dark purple stone. Believed to bring good luck to its wearer.

July – Ruby: Crimson red. A symbol of passion and love. It is thought to bestow vitality.

August – Peridot: Yellow-green. The peridot is thought to enhance loyalty, dignity, and reputation.

September – Sapphire: Dark blue. The sapphire is believed to bestow mental clarity and sincerity in its wearer.

October – Pink Diamond: Pale pink. This pretty gemstone is thought to enhance beauty and charm in its wearer.

November – Yellow Topaz: Yellow-brown. This stone is believed to bestow intuition and mental acuity on its wearer.

December – Blue Topaz: Light blue. This gemstone is believed to enhance creativity and inspiration.

Tags: Birthstone, jewelry, Birthstones, Gemstones, Celtic, Jewelry, symbols, Claddagh, Ring, designs

Once you’ve become immersed in the symbols and lore of the Emerald Isle, you will start to recognize little touches of Ireland in the world around you. While Irish jewelry designs feature some of the most exquisite renderings of Celtic interlace and other popular symbols, they are not the only place you will discover such designs. In today’s world, these symbols can appear almost anywhere. Here is a fun guide to some examples of Irish symbolism in popular culture:

• The Harp – Guinness Draught Beer

The tradition of lively, lilting music and dance is a key component of Irish cultural history. From Medieval times onward, the Harp has been used by Irish musicians to express a prismatic range of emotions; its many strings allow for layers of nuance and a distinctive sound. In past centuries, the Irish Harp was always placed upon the left shoulder, so that it covered the heart. Today, the Irish Harp appears on every bottle of Guinness beer, the thick, dark stout produced in Dublin. Funnily enough, reports have surfaced that the barley-based brew is good for the heart.

• The Claddagh – The Best Of Simple Minds

In the Eighties, the Scottish rock band, Simple Minds, were at the height of their popularity. They rose to fame with their sixth album, Sparkle In The Rain, produced by Steve Lillywhite (of U2 fame). However, their biggest hit, Don’t You Forget About Me, was actually written by someone else. It appeared on the Breakfast Club soundtrack, and it became one of the anthems of the era. For Simple Mind’s greatest hits compilation, they chose the romantic symbols of the Irish Claddagh for their cover art. Today, the Claddagh Ring, with its signature crowned heart motif, is often used as a token and love and affection.

• Celtic Interlace – Tattoos

The popularity of Celtic tattoos featuring classical knot work has never been greater. The timeless appeal of interlace lies in its intricate beauty and its inherent symbolism. The lines of Celtic knot work have no beginning and no end. They are a symbol of life force and eternity. Many celebrities have chosen tattoos featuring interlace and other related symbols, such as Celtic Crosses. The lead singer of rock band Depeche Mode, Dave Gahan, sports a Celtic tattoo, in emerald green ink, on his left shoulder. Former Spice Girl Melanie C. also chose a Celtic tattoo design.

• Leprechauns and Shamrocks – Notre Dame Football Team Jerseys

The pugnacious Irish fellow displayed on the team blanket above is a symbol of The Fighting Irish, Notre Dame University’s football team. They also use a Shamrock motif on their merchandise. But why did an Indiana University choose the symbols of Ireland for its squad? The stories vary, but it believed that during a Notre Dame-Michigan game in the late 18 th century, one player yelled out the following admonishment to his teammates: “What’s the matter with you guys? You’re all Irish and you’re not fighting worth a lick.”

As you can see, the presence of Irish symbols is alive and well in the modern world. How many other symbols can you find in the world around you?

Tags: irish, celtic, symbols, guinness, tattoos, Claddagh, simple, minds, notre, dame

“Fear was making her steps precise, like scissors cutting paper…” Brenna Briggs, the author of the unique Liffey Rivers Irish Dancer Mysteries, has commented that “the world of Irish dancers is out of control! Families spend thousands of dollars each year traveling to dance competitions all over the world and many dancers own several solo dresses, worth well over a thousand dollars each, along with multiple hard and soft shoes.

Dancers glue their socks on, tan their legs with chemicals and wear wigs. At one time the style was to wear two wigs—one on top of the other. Most dance competitions have caps and close within hours of opening up for online registration and the Chicago Feis alone has more than 2,000 competitors. The feiseanna (competition) circuit is addictive. There is an online support group called MAIDS: ‘Mothers Addicted To Irish Dancing.’”

Briggs says that the idea of an Irish dancer who was also a girl detective evolved from the two worlds she lived in for many years. By day, Brenna worked as a paralegal in a criminal law office and after hours, she inhabited the world of her Irish dancing daughter, driving 100 miles a few times a week round trip.

Heroine Liffey Rivers is a 13-year-old Irish dancer who solves crimes and mysteries within a feiseanna framework, often taking risks. There are three books in this series so far and a fourth debuting in September. Serialized Liffey Rivers short stories also appear monthly in Irish Dance and Culture Magazine. The books are available online at Amazon.com and Amazon uk and through independent bookstores in Ireland, the UK and U.S. More information is available at: www.liffeyrivers.com

Tags: liffey, rivers, Irish, dance, book, brenna, briggs

Saint Patrick’s Day is a joyous celebration of everything Irish. If you plan on hitting a pub or a Saint Patrick’s Day parade, you are probably thinking about the best way to show your Irish spirit on March 17 th. A little touch of Irish style can make you sparkle at parties and festivities. Here are some fun, modern ways to display your pride and loyalty to the Emerald Isle on Saint Patrick’s Day:

Wearing of The Green – Of course, wearing emerald green is synonymous with Saint Patrick’s Day. The “wearing o’ the green” is a tradition based on the politics of Ireland and England through the centuries. The “green” was initially worn to show allegiance to the Society of the United Irishmen, and it was viewed as rebellion by the English rulers of the day.

In fact, the “wearing o’ the green” was a crime in the 18 th century, and those who wore Shamrocks or green articles of clothing could be hung for their acts of defiance.

Today, “wearing the green” on March 17 th is still an expression of Irish pride and loyalty, and it can be fun to indulge with a fun slogan t-shirt (Kiss Me, I’m Irish is one old standby) or even a hat in bright emerald green.

Look around websites and novelty t-shirt stores to see what’s new in Saint Paddy’s Day t-shirts and accessories for this year. Going to the pub while “wearing the green” will ensure that everyone knows you are of Irish origin.

Face Painting – If you want to go all out on the big day, consider gathering a group of friends and doing a little face painting to get into the spirit of things! Grab some non-toxic cosmetic paint from a costume shop and start with some simple shapes that are easy to do.

Shamrocks can be painted on with ease, and they can be put almost anywhere – so be creative. If you don’t want to put shapes like this on your face, consider a green “tattoo” on the back of your shoulder (if you are female). If you are wearing a tank top while you celebrate in a pub, the shamrock will look cute and fun.

If you are male, consider a Shamrock across your bicep or forearm, for a more masculine, “tattoo” effect. Also you could draw other symbols of Ireland with cosmetic paint, such as leprechauns or pots of gold.

Irish Jewelry – Once you’ve gotten your outfit for Saint Patrick’s Day organized, you may be interested in other little touches that will help make the celebration unforgettable.

A diamond Shamrock pendant is a superb way to show your style, and it will also look great in every photo taken on that day (or night)! As well, if you choose a Shamrock pendant handcrafted in Ireland itself, it will become a versatile piece that you can wear long after Saint Paddy’s Day!

In fact, Irish Shamrock pendants are exquisitely crafted out of white or yellow gold, by master artisans, and they feature inlaid diamonds that add a touch of glitz to the design. An Irish Shamrock pendant is a great choice at any time, but especially around March 17 th!

Tags: St., Patricks, Day, Shamrocks, green,pendant, kiss, me

Luckily for Americans, you don’t have to be living in Ireland to experience some terrific, authentic Irish culture. There are many Irish festivals held annually throughout the United States, and two wonderful ones are coming up on the West Coast and in the Midwest.

Irish festivals are a great way to learn more about Irish culture, whether it’s sampling some Irish cuisine (potato soup, corned beef sandwiches or Guinness tickle your fancy?), learning about Irish history, watching performers dance traditional Irish steps or listening to Irish music, these festivals have it all: all without having to leave the continent.

Mark your calendars all you West Coasters: The Irish Heritage Club of Seattle, WA is hosting its 2009 Irish Festival March 14, 15 and 17th (conveniently, St. Patrick’s Day). This event is free, so get your Irish apparel ready and your party shoes on. This festival will feature something for everyone in the family, including: booths selling Irish and Celtic products, on-going Irish music, singing, dancing, workshops, lectures, cultural displays, children’s contests and activities and more!

If you are interested in learning more about your Irish family ancestry or perhaps just about Irish genealogy in general, you may want to participate in one of the festival’s Genealogy workshops. If you have always wanted to be able to impress people with being able to speak some Irish, or perhaps you’re planning a trip to the Emerald Isle and want to have a few phrases under your belt, there will be Language workshops available for your learning pleasure.

For those who appreciate foreign cinema, there will be screening of Irish films during the Festival’s Irish Reels Film Festival. For more information, call (206) 427-3027 or visit http://www.irishclub.org/center.htm

Midwesterners need to wait a little longer for a local Irish festival, but the Michigan Irish music festival is well worth the wait. Happening on September 18-20, 2009 in downtown Muskegon, this festival is one that you will never forget. The festival boasts three days of live music on three different stages, with everything from traditional Irish folk to contemporary Irish rock.

The music will come from bands like Gaelic Storm, The Barra MacNeils, Seamus Kennedy, Fonn Mor and more. The Irish pub area will feature the Notre Dame game on a big screen, so football fans won’t have to miss a minute of the Fighting Irish.

Food galore will be served, and alcohol like Guinness, Harp, Baileys Irish Cream, Budweiser, Bud Light, Bud Select, Amber Bock, Bacardi Malternatives will be served. On the Verizon Dance state, festival go-ers can either watch performers doing traditional Irish dances, or learn them themselves.

If you are worried about missing church on Sunday to attend an Irish festival, fear not. There will be a Catholic Mass on the 14th at 9 am, and that is free to the public. Countless craft and souvenir vendors will be on hand, so have your pocketbook ready to bring home some unique Irish gifts for family and friends.

3-day pass to the festival is $20, or you can buy tickets for just one day priced at $12 for adults on Saturday and $10 on Sunday. Children ages 5-12 are $2 both days, and children under 5 years old are free. Call (231) 739-2028 or visit http://www.michiganirish.org for more information.

Attending Irish festivals are a great way to get in touch with your Irish roots. While you can certainly buy jewelry and other Irish apparel at the festivals, it is even more fun to come to the festivals wearing something you know was handcrafted in Ireland. Irishcelticjewels.com features a great variety of Celtic and Irish jewelry, everything from rings to pendants to earrings.

There is no better way to show off your Irish heritage by wearing something historically significant like a Claddagh ring or a Trinity knot necklace. People will surely notice your jewelry, and you can impress them by saying you ordered it all the way from Ireland. You may be able to find great Irish gifts at these festivals, but there’s no way to know if they are authentically Irish.

Tags: Irish, festivals, parades, St, Patrick, jewelry

Birthstones can be found in various types of jewelry from rings to necklaces to earrings, and they are a lovely way to add some color and personality to any jewelry piece. Because there is an individual birthstone for every month of the year, you can feel unique wearing anything that contains your birth month’s specific birthstone. Birthstones and their color and meaning vary from month to month, so read on to find out what makes your birthstone so special.

January: For those of you born in the first month of the year, your birthstone is the Garnet. The Garnet is very special, as it can come in a variety of colors from pink to black. The most commonly seen color is a reddish brown. Garnets are thought to protect the wear from nightmares and to offer guidance as you are traveling through any kind of dark, literal or figurative.

February: Many people think of Valentine’s Day when they think of the month of February, so it is appropriate that the purple hued Amethyst is the birthstone for this month. Amethysts are meant to symbolize tranquility, protection and peace.

March: Richly blue-green in color, the birthstone Aquamarine lives up to its name’s association with water. This birthstone for March has been thought to protect those at sea, as well as encouraging the making of new friends. It also represents love, hope and health.

April: Diamonds are more than just a girl’s best friend, and they are the ever popular birthstone for the month of April. Known far and wide as one of the most decadent of gemstones, diamonds represent love, eternity and strength. This makes sense, as Diamonds themselves are a very hardy and long-lasting gemstone. If you are looking for a gift for someone born in April, seeking out something like a Celtic diamond ring or pendent should be very easy to do.

May: The Emerald is the birthstone for the month of May, and its rich green hue makes a beautiful addition to any jewelry piece. The Emerald is thought to represent health and the curing of various ailments, as well as the ability to see into the future. Whether these medicinal and magical qualities are true or not, the stone itself does make you feel like they might just be possible.

June: A very rare stone, the Alexandrite was named for Alexander II of Russia. This haunting stone actually changes color, and is the birthstone for the month of June. Many people consider Alexandrite to be a lucky stone, while others think it brings the wearer love.

July: The richly deep red Ruby is the birthstone for July, and reminds one of royalty and sheer elegance. This birthstone has been associated with protection and harmony.

August: The Peridot in its bright lime green color is the birthstone for the month of August. Its vibrancy is thought to shine a light against evil and things that would come terrorize us during the night.

September: Beautiful blue in color, Sapphires are September’s birthstone. These popular gemstones, often featured as side stones in Celtic engagement rings, are thought to represent faith and purity, and that it helped the wearer stay honest and true.

October: Pink Cubic Zirconia is the birthstone for the month of October, and while it is not a real diamond, it shines with just as much luster and at a lower price. The pink color is perfect for anyone who favors simple elegance and a hint of love and romance.

November: The ancient Greeks loved November’s birthstone, Topaz. They thought that is was connected with strength, and also helped facilitate sanity, healing and life. Topaz can come in a rainbow of different colors, including gold, blue, pale green, pink and red.

December: The Blue Topaz is December’s birthstone, and the meaning of the word has it roots in Arabic and represents fire. Blue Topaz is thought to have healing properties and that the stone will help the wearer to be more clear sighted.

If you are looking for a unique piece of birthstone jewelry with a special Celtic flare, please visit Irish Celtic Jewels. We feature the best in Celtic jewelry that is crafted in Ireland. We have a large selection of Irish wedding and engagement rings that can help lend a distinct sentiment to your vows. We have the highest in quality customer service and superior products, and guarantee you will always find what you are looking for.

Tags: birthstone, jewelry, diamond, ring, celtic