Celtic Cross Pendants – Remembering the Irish Spirit

Celtic Cross pendants capture all the beauty and mystery of the ornate stone crosses that rest in the churchyards of Ireland and Scotland. The first stone Celtic Cross monuments, with their distinctive ringed centers, were made during the sixth century. Since then, the Celtic Cross has become a symbol of eternity and faith in God. The central ring is believed to be a remnant of Pagan sun worship, but its meaning has changed over time, to become a symbol of the endlessness of God's love.

The first artisans who created stone Celtic Crosses were thought to be influenced by the ancient Chi-Rho symbol, which is described as a monogram of Christ himself. The Chi-Rho symbol was used during the times of the Holy Roman Empire and dates back to the fourth century. Some early Celtic Crosses in the British Isles are thought to be direct descendants of the Chi-Rho monogram.

Today, stone crosses still mark the graves of those who have passed. They may be primitive and rugged or stylized and refined. All forms of craftsmanship were found during the seminal Insular Art period, when Celtic craftsman learned to create symbols of spiritual faith and love on stone and metal work. Often, crosses made of stone or metal were inlaid with delicate, curving Celtic knot work (known as interlace). They could also feature interlace animals, known as zoomorphic figures.

The Celtic Cross pendants of today take their cue from the past, and retain the timeless meaning and beauty of the original monuments. They are crafted by hand, usually in Ireland, and they are a testament to the continuing skill and excellence of Irish metal work.

These pendants come in a wide variety of styles and sizes, and they feature different finishes. Today's designers have added in modern touches, such as Irish Claddagh symbols, that date back to the seventeenth century.

Some Celtic Cross necklaces will feature a combination of symbols, such as clusters of spirals (whorls), Trinity Love Knots (which represent the Holy Trinity) and even the uniquely Irish Shamrock. The Shamrock itself is another depiction of the Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Each of its three leaves illustrates the presence of a greater power.

The addition of precious gemstones to traditional metal crosses is also a modern touch that adds a bit of color and life to Celtic Cross pendants. In some cases, the center of the cross will be inlaid with a gem. If the cross uses Claddagh symbols, the gem may be faceted into the shape of a heart. On other crosses, the use of tiny diamonds, emeralds, and rubies is common.

Crosses may be silver, white or yellow gold, or rose-gold. Sometimes, a combination of precious metals is used for a more dimensional effect.

The stunning, resonant burial stones of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales have now been transformed into versatile, exquisitely rendered Celtic Cross pendants. The beauty and symbolism of these special crosses remains unchanged. Choosing the right Celtic Cross pendant for your own collection can be an inspiring journey through your ancestry and heritage.

By Leigh O'Meachair

Leigh O'Meachair writes content for Irish Celtic Jewels, a leading online Celtic jewelry store with more than 30 years experience in the jewelry trade. Click here for more information about Celtic cross pendants and here for Celtic pendants.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leigh_O'Meachair
http://EzineArticles.com/?Celtic-Cross-Pendants---Remembering-the-Irish-Spirit&id=2382532

Technorati Tags: Celtic Cross Jewelry, Celtic cross necklaces, Celtic cross pendants, celtic jewelry