Classic Celtic and Irish Styles and How to Wear Them

Classic Celtic and Irish styles in jewelry range from the Claddagh ring to emeralds to engraving the Irish language or Ogham into rings, necklaces and bracelets. Here’s how to wear them best...

A Claddagh ring can be worn by anyone. Whether single, engaged, or married, people can all feel comfortable wearing a Claddagh Ring in silver, gold or white gold. However, one fantastic feature of this beautiful ring is that the way it is worn is different depending on the status of the wearer. There is a coded message that only some know and it all depends on the positioning of this fabulous ring. The ring emanates from the tiny fishing village of Claddagh in Co. Galway and it has endured worldwide fame for years around the world and is still one of the most popular symbols of Ireland. It can be worn as a necklace, brooch, bracelet or ring and even with a birthstone jewel built into it. So how should you wear it?

Single - The ring is worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward from your body.

In a Relationship - The ring is worn on the right hand with the heart facing inwards.

Engaged - The ring is worn on the left hand on the third finger with the heart pointing outwards.

Married - The ring is worn on the left hand on the third finger with the heart pointing outwards.

Emeralds are a classic symbol of Ireland and their beautiful green colour shines out whether it is set against silver, gold or white gold. Here’s how to wear them:

Everyday - Contrary to popular belief, emeralds are suitable as an everyday piece. An emerald ring, such as this stunning diamond and emerald engagement ring is perfect and shines even brighter with the diamond mixed with the green stones.

Evening pop of glamour - An emerald necklace can prove to be a real showstopper and is a great purchase for a special occasion and to wear at more glamorous events. This beautiful necklace is a fabulous piece and it also incorporates the Celtic woven knot - an important symbol in Irish history. This Celtic pendant set with green stone is simply stunning.

‘Wearing’ the Irish language might seem like an odd phrase but there is the most beautiful way to incorporate this special language into jewelry using words and symbols.

The Eternal Promise collection at Rings from Ireland builds in the beautiful love language from Ireland, incorporating it into engraving on rings. My soul mate translates as ‘Mo anam chara’ and love, loyalty and friendship translates as ‘gran dilseacht cairdeas’.

Love forever translates as ‘Gra Go Deo’ and Love of my Heart translates as ‘Gra Geal Mo Chroi’.

Another way to incorporate the Irish language into jewelry and wear it with pride is to choose something from the ancient Irish language of Ogham which is a series of lines and symbols that were used to carve out messages on many beautiful stones dotted through the countryside of the country, particularly on the Dingle peninsula.

From rings to engagement rings, to pendants in gold, silver and white gold, the ogham is also incorporated in some other classic Celtic symbols like the Celtic knot so it has a double effect when it comes to meaning. Jewelry can be personalised with a name or any special message.

The swirling patterns and motifs that are synonymous with Ireland are just perfect when it comes to jewelry and there is so much choice from the more ornate to simple repeat patterns from the Trinity knot to other beautiful Celtic knotwork.

The Celtic warrior collection at Rings from Ireland is a beautiful selection of rings, bangles, bracelets and pendants that is inspired by the Ardagh Chalice, Ireland’s foremost treasure which was discovered in 1868 in Ardagh, Co. Limerick. It’s the finest example of eighth century metalwork ever to be discovered and the jewelry is a nod to the gold filigree band on the chalice with its shield decorations.

The History of Ireland collection at Rings from Ireland sums up the history of Ireland in a series of twelve evocative symbols which are all engraved into rings, bracelets, pendants, earrings, a beautiful cross and even cufflinks. From the circle of life to St. Patrick to the Irish flag to round towers, they’re all there beautifully engraved into the designs.