Why So Many Celtic Rings Feature Complicated Geometric Designs And Intricate Knots

We get a great deal of modern art from the ancient Celts including paintings and even tattoos and rings aren't any different. One of the most popular designs of all is that of the famed Celtic Knots which are repetitive designs of interlaced knots that seemingly have no end and no beginning. I really enjoy the meticulous detail found in Celtic art and the Celtic Knots are one of the best examples of this. They are very widely used in the design of wedding bands today.

The Claddagh Ring which is named for the fishing village in Ireland where the inventor was from, is a traditional ring that symbolizes friendship and love. Richard Joyce designed the ring while in slavery as a gift for his waiting bride to be. He fashioned a heart symbol for love, a crown as a symbol of loyalty and fidelity, and two hands clasped together to depict friendship. The symbols on the ring have a special importance. When worn on the right hand with the crown facing towards the wrist of the wearer it indicates that the person is not spoken for. If the crown is turned outward it signifies that the person is committed to someone while worn on the left hand it signifies marriage.

The Celtic Cross is another highly symbolic design that represents the four elements of earth, fire, wind and water as well as the four quarters of the earth. The crosses are balnced and symmetrical and are normally either backed by a circle or have a circle around them. These are highly popular and I am sure that you have seen them if you aren't actually wearing one!

Scrolls, chevrons, knots, and spirals are just some of the components in the Celtic artwork which relies so heavily in geometric designs. Some of the same designs we see on jewelry and tattoos are also found on ancient stone carvings as well as books and manuscripts. The spiral designs we see in Celtic art are also very symbolic with a lone spiral design standing for cosmic energy and growth.

The Chinese have the Yin and Tang symbol and the dual centered spiral that is featured in many Celtic carvings symbolizes the same thing showing balance and duality. From what I can tell the Celtic Knot design that comes from these are showing no signs of slowing up in popularity. The ancient Celts may not be around but their work and the many different ways of expressing that art that have evolved from it are sure to keep their culture alive for the foreseeable future.