|
>Ring Sizing Chart Click Here
Jewelry has a long and ancient history throughout
all world cultures and its uses ranged from an indicator of power
and position in society to one of adornment and personal or
spiritual expression. Celtic design in its earliest form dates
back to 500 BC-100AD. Referred to as "early Celtic art" or "La
Tene Art", from Ireland to Romania, decorative objects, including
jewelry, were produced with exceptional skill in a variety of
metals, including gold and silver. In the 19th century, many of
these objects were found in an archaeological expedition at La
Tene, in Switzerland. Translations of Greek and Roman motifs were
found in the swirls, knots, and stylized plants, birds, and
animals on the decorative objects.
Later Celtic art was a reinterpretation of these motifs, most
notably by Irish monks in the 7th -9th century who produced the
illuminated religious manuscripts throughout Ireland, Scotland,
and England. The Book of Kells, the Lindisfarne Gospels and the
Book of Durrow are three of the most famous of the manuscripts.
Intricate interlaced knotwork and zoomorphic serpents, birds, and
animals characterize this work.
Other influences come from spirals found on Pictish stones in
Scotland and at the burial site of Newgrange in Ireland, as well
as the Viking and Nordic influences in Dublin and the Orkney and
Shetland islands.
Celtic design in jewelry, as well as other decorative objects, was
revived in the 19th century, where Liberty of London designer
Archibald Knox, an Isle of Man native, combined Art Nouveau with
Celtic knotwork. The modern Arts and Crafts movement saw more
revival of ancient Celtic designs.
Today, the craft of Celtic jewelry has much to take inspiration
from including the powerful symbol of the heart and hands in the
Irish Claddagh or the heart and crown of the 19th century
Luckenbooth from Scotland. At Cara Magnus Celtic, our jewelry is
selected for its history and meaning, its beauty, and the quality
of the craftsmanship, from all the Celtic lands.
Cara Magnus Celtic is your online source for Celtic Jewelry and
Celtic Jewellery.
|
