In its simplest form, a Celtic cross is a basic traditional cross with a ring surrounding the intersection. Celtic Crosses are both distinctive and beautiful, but lack the suffering element of the crucifix. Celtic jewelry is one the most easily recognized examples of Christianity.
Celtic cross designers make Sterling Silver Celtic Crosses, gold Celtic Crosses, and wooden Celtic Crosses; or, they can create these beautiful pieces of art from a large variety of other materials.
Celtic jewelry, like the Celts themselves, has a rich history and a proud tradition. Celtic cross jewelry, Celtic knot jewelry, and their beautiful Claddagh rings have been admired and desired for literally thousands of years. Celtic jewelry uses delicate design and intricate Celtic symbols to create its intensely beautiful jewelry pieces.
Today, there is much confusion about the origins of the Celtic cross; both Catholics and Presbyterians claim the cross as their own. While still others say it originates from Pagan beliefs. The cross did become a common symbol of Christianity in the 4th century, when Christianity spread to the British Isles, and the Celtic cross was combined with the Christian 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 symbolize eternity and the endlessness of God’s love. Or, it can even represent a halo emanating from Christ.
Some say the four “arms” of the Celtic symbol represent the elements (fire, earth, air, and water). Others believe the cross denotes the four directions of the compass, and still others feel it represents human existence (mind, body, soul and heart).
If you are of Scottish, Irish, or Welsh descent, you might wear the cross as a symbol of your ethnic heritage. Wearing the Celtic cross is very popular and beautiful way to signify both your faith and your proud ancestry.
While there are many different thoughts and beliefs about the Celtic cross, there is wide agreement that the ring surrounding the intersection symbolizes eternity. Whether by design or not, the circle surrounding the intersection of the cross has come to represent the everlasting glory of God.
Celtic cross jewelry has also come to represent the conversion of non-believers through means of inclusion, not war. By combining pagan designs with the Christian cross, the Church was able to convert what would later become its most faithful supporters, the Celts.