Many men and women celebrate their Celtic heritage by choosing tattoos that showcase the motifs of ancient Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Often, these intricate and ornate designs feature a style known as Celtic interlace – this latticework effect gives Celtic tattoos a rich, dimensional appearance that can be quite hypnotic.
Celtic knot work (interlace) lines flow into one another, creating a seamless and never-ending pattern that is symbolic of the endless cycle of birth, death, and spiritual rebirth.
If you’re interested in getting a Celtic tattoo, you may wonder exactly which symbols will work best for you – and what each motif really means…
While eternity is always an important theme, there are other fascinating secrets to unveil when studying the significance of Celtic symbols:
Trinity Knots
The Celtic Trinity Knots featured on the Silver Trinity Knot Celtic Earrings at left date back to the sixth century, and they are popular choices for Celtic tattoos.
Each segment in this early medieval design symbolizes one part of the Holy Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Believed to be the creation of Irish monks, who styled motifs in ancient monasteries, the Trinity Knot remains an important symbol of the British Isles. This symbol can be a simple, powerful tattoo that carries special spiritual meaning – it honors Christian faith and Celtic ancestry.
Celtic Crosses
A Celtic interlace tattoo can be even more spectacular when it features dual symbolism – this can be achieved by opting for a Celtic Cross inlaid with knot work detailing.
One example of this type of design can be found on the Silver Celtic Dog Tag Gents Celtic Cross necklace displayed on the left.
While many Celtic Crosses feature a distinctive central ring, which is a remnant of Pagan sun worship, others are simpler. The addition of latticework inlays that illustrate eternity add a touch of intricacy to the powerful cross motif.
If you’re looking for a way to show your love for God with a traditional Celtic tattoo, you may enjoy wearing a ringed or simple Celtic cross adorned with delicate knot work.
Celtic Spirals
Beautiful Celtic spirals are a popular choice for arm band tattoos. The soft, curving lines of each spiral are reminiscent of seashells. According to Celtic legend, spirals such as those featured on our stunning Ladies Two Tone Celtic Spiral Wedding Band represent life-force.
Every turn of the spiral symbolizes another milestone in life’s journey – the ultimate destination of the spiral lies at its center, where spiritual enlightenment and rebirth are found.
If you believe in the endlessness of all things, you’ll appreciate the simple, meaningful attributes of this classical Celtic pattern.
Whether you choose a spiral arm band, or a single curving shape, you will be honoring your Celtic heritage with your new ink. Sometimes, these spirals appear in a cluster of three, known as a Celtic Triskele. Spirals may also decorate the inlays of other Celtic symbols.
Ogham Script
The mysterious etchings known as Celtic Ogham script were designed to protect messages from the prying eyes of invaders. This early medieval written language was used primarily in Ireland – the symbols themselves were often found carved into tree trunks…
Ogham script is a grouping of symbols that indicate letters. Horizontal and vertical lines, such as those featured on one side of our Silver Trinity Knot and Ogham Wedding Style Band (next to a row of Trinity Knots) are joined to form complete words.
Intriguing and mysterious, Celtic Ogham script is a good choice for unique, unforgettable Celtic tattoos. Since the script can be used to spell out a name or other significant word, it can be excellent way to write something important on your arm – without telling the whole world…
Celtic Jewelry Offers Authentic Symbolism That Lasts…
If you’re not ready for the permanence of a Celtic tattoo, there is another way to enjoy authentic Celtic symbolism that lasts a lifetime. Today’s jewelry designers have worked with Irish artisans to craft Irish wedding bands, engagement rings, earrings, and other jewelry pieces that capture the essence of Celtic art and history.
To learn more about your own heritage, visit our online Irish jewelry store and explore a wealth of Celtic symbolism, crafted of gold, silver and gemstones…