Celtic Symbols and their Meanings
Celtic Knots and Celtic Crosses Sterling Silver Jewelry

TRISKELE or TRISKS

The Triskele is thought to have originated in what is now known as the Isle of Mann. The Triskele (three-legged emblem) is traditionally thought to be used to represent the cycles of life in the three fold, or three spheres of influence in the "material world". The three spheres (Land, Sea and Sky) represents the three aspects of the material world that are contained in every object. Each aspect ever flowing outward and always returning to the point from which it started.

SPIRAL
Its true meaning is not known for sure, but many of these symbols were found as far as Ireland and France. It is believed to represent the travel from the inner life to the outer soul or higher spirit forms; the concept of  growth, expansion, and cosmic energy, depending on the culture in which it is used. To the ancient inhabitants of Ireland, the spiral is thought to be used to symbolize the sun.

CELTIC KNOT WORK
Among the more distinctive aspects of the Celtic culture is their decoration or artwork. The famous interlocking geometric lines and swirls appeared first on metalwork and stonework. Many of these famous symbols found their way into some of the ancient Gospel Books.

The basic components of Celtic design consist of a few basic shapes, including spirals, interlacing endless knot patterns which are woven together to form intricate patterns. Figures are sometimes combined with abstract Celtic designs. Celtic craftsmen produced infinite variations on these knot work or swirl styles to render meanings for each impossible. These highly stylized designs have become widely popular for jewelry themes today.

CELTIC CROSSES
Standing stones had long been a part of the Celtic culture used as shrine throughout western Europe, They survived the coming of the Christian era, as missionaries did not wish to anger new converts by destroying their shrines. So they combined elements of the Cross (a Christian symbol) with elements of the stone shrines (Celtic symbols) and created what is now referred to as Celtic Crosses. St. Patrick is said to have had a lot to do with this new emblems of the Celtic Christian symbols.

TRINITY KNOTS
Trinity knots are Celtic style knot work with three prominent points with each point representing one the Three in The Godhead.

MORE ON THE MEANING OF CELTIC KNOTS
The sophisticated twists, turns and continuous looping of the Celtic Knot are found in ancient stone art just about anywhere the ancient Celtic people traveled. Much of the supposed meanings of Celtic Knots are usually made up.

Many of the ancient Celtic Knot designs had some spiritually significant meanings, much has been lost in time. The continuous looping of the designs suggests themes of eternity and interconnectedness. The modern designs, were primarily used as decorative designs for ornamentation. Other relatively modern designs include linked hearts and other "love knots," Christian crosses etc.

Because the Celts themselves left very little information by way of records, most symbols are interpreted by archaeologists in context. Many Celtic symbols have changed in meaning over time, having been influenced by the introduction of Christianity and other cultures.

For some the shape of the design often determines the "meaning" of a knotwork design. For example triskele and trefoil shapes should be regarded as triskeles. Circles can represent unity or eternity. Spirals represent reincarnation or cycles of life and rebirth. Triangles the threefold dominions of earth, sea, and sky. Or more recently in history, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Squares or four-fold shapes are shield knots.

We have an outstanding collection of Celtic themed jewelry in our eBay store all in sterling silver. We have four categories of Celtic Knot jewelry in our eBay store for Troy38s: Celtic Knots and Celtic Crosses Sterling Silver Jewelry

Celtic & Irish Charms
Celtic & Irish Earrings
Celtic & Irish Neckalces
Celtic & Irish Rings
Celtic Knots and Celtic Crosses Sterling Silver Jewelry