Celtic Symbols

The subject of celtic symbols has grown to be a very poplular section of our website. On this pagei will be giving a strict overview and links to additional pages for more detailed information.

This first page will give you some historical background. From this page we will journey to other sections where I have created more in-depth detail coverages.

The subject of Celtic Symbols is certainly an area of interest that is very fluid in its interpretation. There have been many ancient Celtic symbols found in Celtic mythology, art and architecture. These findings indicate that all the once separate Celtic tribes once had a common art form - be it for religious or decorative purposes.

As the Celtic culture spread throughout Europe and beyond, it has to be recognized that this merging of the many cultures undoubtedly transformed the original Celtic symbols and their symbolic meanings. The many books that have been written on the subject have continued to add to the these variations and interpretations of the Celtic symbols we have today.

Celtic symbols of old seem to have a great connection to the circle and the number 3. The older examples of Celtic symbols are different styles of spiral, either carved into rock or cut into metals and in some cases scratchings or paintings on walls. Many burial sites have large stones at their entrance adorned with these spiral patterns. The single spiral is the oldest and most recorded of these motifs. It is said to be symbolic of expansion, growth and energy.

Modern archaeologists are finding, as they explore in more depth the history of the Celtic culture, that throughout the historic time line a great many Celtic symbols have been used. In some cases dropped at various times something similar to an actor in a soap opera suddenly disappearing and then later appearing as a different character in the show or in certain other circumstances - never to return.

Celtic symbols and many of their associated imageries have given us the opportunity to use our own imaginations, as if connected to something of great unknown mystery.

For example - the idea of shape shifting into different forms was shown through the creation of artefacts. As they were turned in various directions they trick the viewer into seeing a number of faces, or animals, by seemingly transforming from one object to another.  

Or some times there will be patterns that seemingly dissolve only to reorganize themselves into totally new and unique patterns. Patterns that bear absolutely NO resemblance to the pattern first seen.

Many of these swirl effects are used today in items of jewellery such as a necklace or ear rings. Ron's cousin Lesley produces wonderful designs from silver and other metals. She was very fond of this style along with the Celtic cross and rings with the family emblems and initials wound into the swirling patterns.  Her explanations of the symbols were of love and friendship similar to that of the claddagh story.

See the Celtic Jewelry page for more info

• Symbols Overview