Celtic Amulets and Jewelry

Celtic Amulets and Jewelry are as old and as mysterious as the Celtic peoples themselves. The Celtic peoples originated in Eastern Europe, but migrated westward and eventually reached the British Isles before the Common Era. Establishing themselves in Britain, Wales, and Ireland, they created their own unique culture, including religion (the Druids were made up of Celtic peoples), dress, body art (they liked ornate blue tattoos, particularly warriors), and especially jewelry.

Being a forest and pagan worshiping people, much of their jewelry, particularly amulets, have both religious and cultural significance. Amulets and other Celtic jewelry were made of a variety of materials, including metals, stones, shells, and beads. Many of the amulets have special significance, such as person protection in time of war. With the coming of Christianity, old pagan beliefs and rituals were incorporated into the designs of Celtic jewelry. Animals that were admired for their strength and prowess, such as lions and wolves, were also depicted in amulets and other Celtic Jewelry.

Many Celtic amulets were fashioned as "Knot Jewelry", with each design or "Knot" having a particular significance. Some of these include the Eagle knot, creating a unification of male and female beings, the Celtic Warrior that put 'circles of protection' around its wearer. Other amulets have religious motifs, varying from Pagan ones to Christianity. Amulets with the Trescele symbol are considered sacred, as this symbol represents the trinity of life. Certain symbolic articles, such as the Irish Shamrock are also made into amulets, designed to bring good luck to the wearer.

The Celtic influence and culture are still widely felt today in Ireland and Wales. Celtic jewelry, including amulets are still widely worn in these countries, and Celtic designed rings are often worn by brides. Celtic charm amulets with astrological symbols as well as those dealing with mysticism and the occult are popular, especially among country folk.

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