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September 15, 2007

Celtic Jewelry – A Beautiful Mystery Unraveled

Celtic jewelry like the Celts themselves has a rich history and a proud tradition. Immensely beautiful with intricate Celtic symbols and delicate designs, Celtic cross jewelry, Celtic knot jewelry, and beautiful Claddaugh rings have been admired and desired for thousands of years.

Celtic Cross Jewelry

One of the most enduring, and coveted “gifts” of Celtic culture is jewelry featuring the Celtic Cross. According to Irish legend, St. Patrick created the first Celtic cross by drawing a circle over a Latin cross.

For an Irish Catholic, the circle in the Celtic cross may be a symbol of eternity and the endlessness of God’s love. It can even represent a halo emanating from Christ.

Some say the four “arms” of the Celtic Cross represent the elements (fire, earth, air, and water). Others believe the cross denotes the four directions of the compass, and still others feel it is a representation of human existence – mind, body, soul and heart.

Celtic Knots

The most distinguishing characteristic of Celtic knots is their intricate patterns and design…and the debate as to the meaning of those designs. While it is unquestionable that many of the ancient designs had some significance, those meanings changed from tribe to tribe and location to location.

Many believe that the intricate looping in knots was a way to keep out evil spirits. It is also generally accepted that the looping Celtic knot design denotes eternity and interconnectedness. Still, there is no definitive guide as to the meaning of Celtic knots which, adds, perhaps to their mystery and appeal.

Claddagh Rings

Named for the town of Claddagh near Galway in which they are said to have originated, Claddagh rings are beloved Celtic symbols of Irish culture and sentiment. Unlike other Celtic symbols, the meaning behind the Claddagh ring is well-documented. The Claddagh design has a heart (symbolizing love) topped by a crown (symbolizing loyalty) held in two hands (signifying friendship). The phrase that is usually associated with the giving of a Claddagh ring is “Let love and friendship reign.”

It’s not surprise that the Claddagh is a popular marriage band. In Celtic times, it was worn on the right hand with the heart turned outward to show that the wearer is unattached or with the heart turned inward to show he/she was “spoken for.” If the Claddagh ring is worn on the left hand with the heart turned inward, it shows that two loves have been joined in marriage.

Celtic Then and Now

At one time, Celtic people could be found throughout Eastern and Central Europe, as well as in the British Isles, where the earliest examples of Celtic jewelry originate. The emergence of the powerful Roman Empire encroached on the lifestyle, traditions, and homeland of the Celts who were forced to move to abandon their homes and relocate in remote areas in Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Cornwall in southern England.

Despite their hardships at the hands of the Romans, Celts endured, thrived…and continued to produce Celtic jewelry. The tradition has remained strong for centuries. Irish Celtic jewelry and Scottish Celtic jewelry have enjoyed a huge resurgence in their homelands and with “ex-pats” around the world, as people seek to rediscover and celebrate their cultural traditions.

September 4, 2007

Jewelry You’ll Love To Wear This Fall

White metals like tungsten rings and titanium jewelry are set to sparkle with pizzazz this fall as the clothing trends lean towards cool, crisp and tailored. Look for grays and reds to replace the traditional fall colors for clothing as gold and silver give way to tungsten, platinum, titanium and palladium. Jewelry in general is a hot ticket this fall, but white metals bring the perfect balance to fall wardrobes. As the standout colors in fashion, nothing offsets shades of red or gray better than tungsten and titanium. Sleek, sexy and stylish tungsten rings convey a look of professionalism with a blend of contemporary class.

With the simple and almost masculine lines of tailored trends, big, bold and sleek jewelry designs create the perfect offset for the structure of buttoned up looks guaranteed to be seen in fall fashions this year. Paired with a prominent titanium necklace, tungsten rings and chunky titanium heart bracelet, your everyday basic separates can go from drab to shine. Sparkle and glimmer are starting early this season and tungsten is the ideal element to make a statement without looking like a New Years Eve explosion in your closet.

When it comes to tungsten and titanium jewelry, there are many excellent options available at wide range of price points. Tungsten is a bit heavier than some metals, but the versatility and sleekness are comforting. In addition, tungsten rings are extremely durable. Scratch resistant, corrosion defiant and virtually indestructible, tungsten jewelry maintains its luster, gleam and shine long after the initial debut. With lifetime sizing programs and warranties, you can’t beat the investment in this fashion must have.

Tungsten rings, watches and necklaces are not only ideal for fall attire, but they can represent the perfect transitional accessories. From day to evening wear or season to season, tungsten and titanium jewelry can work in a simple and understated manner to bold and seasonal transitions. The cool and contemporary look of titanium and tungsten are excellent for evening or day time accessorizing. Tungsten offers a luxurious feel of style, class and comfort. Light enough for everyday enjoyment, yet elegant enough to pair with formal wear. Tungsten rings may be worn in sets or as an individual piece.

Whether you go for a classic tungsten ring simple in form, or the more intricate designs such as two tone rings, there are many styles and options you can choose from. For necklaces, rings and bracelets, diamonds can also be included. Regardless of your style or preference, you can find titanium or tungsten rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches or cufflinks online from reputable dealers. One of my favorite online retailers is http://www.Titanium-Jewelry.com. Unlike other online retailers, Titanium-Jewelry.com has a complete brick and mortar store that offers custom fine jewelry, antique and estate pieces in addition to their full line of titanium and tungsten jewelry.

Featuring top designers like Edward Mirell™ you can find a variety of styles and designs to match flawlessly with your fabulous fall fashions. For the latest designs and best deals on titanium jewelry, tungsten rings and accessories, visit http://www.titanium-jewelry.com.