The Celtic Necklace Blog

The Celtic knot is probably one of the most widely used designs in the creation of Celtic necklaces and earrings.  The knots are not limited to just jewelry, however, and can be found in just about anything Celtic- from writings to rugs!  As a matter of fact, Celtic knots are stamped into the leather checkbook cover I have hidden away for my sister for Christmas (shhh… don’t tell!)

Unlike many other Celtic symbols, the knot seems to have no “special” meaning, as so many of the other symbols do.  Some say that the continuous thread and working of the knot evokes a message of eternity and a feeling of being connected.  Actually, it seems the knotwork is so widely used because it is just plain pretty and interesting.  The ancient folk, evidentally, did love things just for their beauty!

Want to learn more about the Celtic Knot?  Here’s a great site: Making Celtic Knots

Inquiring minds want to know…

Ever wondered how silver celtic pendants are made?  Watch this captivating video to get an idea of how jewelry goes from a “blob” to magnificent!

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The Claddagh symbol is not just for rings anymore!  A beautiful Claddagh charm is something every Irish girl would love to have for her Celtic necklace.

Just what lies behind this Celtic symbol?  You all know the Claddagh symbol - A heart being held by two hands with a crown over the heart.  Each piece of this symbol has its own special meaning:

The Heart:  Love

The Hands: Friendship and Togetherness

The Crown: Loyalty

There is an old Irish tradition that goes along with this ring.  Wear it with the heart pointing away from the body and that means its wearer is “single - available”.  Point the heart towards the body and that means the wearer is “taken, engaged, or married”.

The origin of the Claddagh ring is said to have started with Richard Joyce, a native of Galway.  It is believed that Joyce was captured at sea and sold into slavery.  While he was in Algiers he learned the trade from his master.  The ring was created by Joyce for the love he left behind in Ireland.  Joyce was released from slavery when William III demanded the Moors release all British prisoners.  It is said that he presented his love with the ring upon his return to Ireland.

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It seems that a great majority of Celtic necklaces and jewelry are made of silver. Silver is both beautiful and affordable.  But many people don’t know how to keep that new silver piece looking great.  Want to keep your necklace shiny and fresh?  A few very simple and easy steps will help keep it looking like new.

Keep your necklace in a bag when you’re not wearing it.  A plastic ziplock bag will do just fine.  Keeping the air out of the bag is essential to keep the oxidation to a minimum.  Store the bag in a cool, dark place. 

To clean your Celtic necklace, always use a soft 100% cotton cloth.  An old cotton tshirt is perfect. 

Is your necklace just a bit dirty?  A very weak solution of dish detergent and water will take off light soil.  Just be sure to dry completely when you’re done.

Silver paste cleaners can be used if your necklace is really tarnished. Silver cleaner can be easily found in the cleaning section of a large grocery store and can certainly be found at the local discount department stores.  If your necklace or charm contains a gemstone, do not get the paste on your stone.

In addition to cleaners, many jewelers sell clothes that you can use on your silver pieces… very handy indeed!

And don’t wear your silver while you’re swimming!  Chlorine can really do a number on silver jewelry.

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