Irish Mythology – The Merrow (Sea Fairies)

According to Gaelic legend, the Merrow frolicked in the frigid waters near the rugged Irish coastline…these sea fairies were women from the waist up, and fish from the waist down.

Although there were also male Merrow, they were far less attractive and irresistible than their female counterparts…in fact, they were believed to be monstrous, ugly beings with bright green hair!

The male Merrow abducted hapless sailors and kept them enslaved below the sea! Understandably, the female Merrow tended to prefer the company of human men, rather than pairing off with their own kind…

The females also had green hair (in a softer, prettier shade of that color), or long, golden tresses…they always wore enchanted caps which allowed them to swim far beneath the sea’s surface and to live safely underwater.

Beautiful And Alluring…The Merrow Enticed Human Beings…

The beautiful songs the Merrow sang lured others to them – just like the Sirens of Greek mythology, they used music to entice humans.

These mermaids were mostly kind, but occasionally, they would lash out at sailors or anyone else who startled them at the wrong moment.

The Irish were suspicious of these sea fairies, who could be violent or friendly by turns…they could be dangerous foes. Tales of violence (such as pulling the arms and legs off of their victims) were not uncommon…

According to the Gaelic myths, human men would see the beautiful female Merrow on the shores, and they would become smitten with them, despite the risks…some would try to steal their cohuleen driuth (magic caps), so that they could not go back underwater. Many marriages (some less than ideal, given the method of “wooing”) were thusly arranged between Merrow and man…

The Merrow who lived with men on the land (by choice or by necessity), would often tire of their new circumstances. In time, these charming creatures would grow homesick for the sea, and the lucky ones, who still had their magic caps, would find a way to return…

Other female Merrow would sometimes lure desirable men with their sweet voices and their magical wiles, and then take them under the waves to live amongst their own fairy kind. They would dwell together in a bewitched state, sometimes for years and years…

The powerful magic of the Merrow grants them a special place in Gaelic mythology…

Celebrate The Irish Spirit With A Sapphire Engagement Ring

If you are of Irish (or Celtic) heritage, you’ll adore this stunning Celtic engagement ring. Adorned with a shining sapphire and two sparkling diamonds, it also features ornate knot work.

The Trinity Knots that add so much richness and dimension to this Irish engagement ring also have a special meaning…they symbolize the Father, the Son, and The Holy Spirit.

Since the sixth century, the Irish people have regarded this symbol with reverence. It appears on art treasures, stone monuments, and illuminated texts…

Honor your heritage as you embark on a new journey into matrimony..this ring blends the past, the present, and the future. History and quality meet in this special design, which is handcrafted in Ireland.

For more Irish and Celtic jewelry designs, browse our convenient, online Irish jewelry store…