The Irish people and their rich history are known throughout the world. Through the years, many symbols have become associated with the Emerald Isle and its cultural heritage.
Although the harp is the official symbol of Ireland, others are also closely related to this enchanting place. If you want to incorporate these symbols in some unique pieces of jewelry, now is the time to discover deals that can bring a piece of that civilization to you. Read on to find out more about the history behind the most common Irish symbols.
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*This is a collaborative post. The Shamrock
No symbol is more closely associated with Irish tradition than the shamrock. Featured everywhere in Irish lore and culture, the shamrock has also become the centerpiece of such well-known and beloved celebrations as St. Patrick’s Day.
According to legend, the relationship between the shamrock and the Irish dates back to the times when St. Patrick used the three leaves on a clover to explain the mystery of the Holy Trinity to his pupils. As he explained it, each leaf represents the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These days, it has become the undisputed symbol that encompasses all things Irish.
Remarkably, there is no botanical species known as a shamrock. The word has its origins in Seamair óg which means young clover in Irish. With plenty of agriculture throughout Ireland, the clover certainly contributes its share to the island.
Dating back to the 1950s, it has become a tradition that every year the Irish Prime Minister sends a bowl of shamrock to the American president to commemorate St. Patrick´s Day.
The Irish Harp
As the official national symbol of Ireland, the harp is displayed in Irish Euro coins and official documents such as the presidential seal, passports, and birth certificates. Also, harp music with its haunting sounds has found a place in traditional Irish music.
Musicians who played the harp were traditionally believed to be more cultured and better-educated individuals who enjoyed a certain status in society.
The Irish Claddagh Ring
This iconic ring features two hands that join at its center and grab a heart with a crown on the top. It is a well-recognized symbol of love, friendship, and unity and many wear it as a wedding ring. Although both men and women can wear this ring, it has become a tradition for the Claddagh ring to be passed down through the female line of the family.
It is generally worn on the left hand facing inwards to indicate that the wearer is married and on the right hand facing inwards meaning that the wearer is in a relationship. Whenever it faces outwards, it is understood that the wearer is single.
The Celtic Cross
Found throughout Scotland, Wales, and elsewhere in Europe, this cross is believed to have first been created by St. Patrick. It has been featured in statues, pillars, churches, and walls, many of them with highly detailed relief carvings.
*Disclaimer – This is a collaborative post. This post has been pre-written.
