High stone Crosses of Ireland: St Martin's High Cross of Iona
Written by Jane Chadwick on May 22, 2023 | 0 Comments
St. Martin’s cross is widely regarded as the most impressive of the high stone crosses on the beautiful Scottish isle of Iona. Although it is not found in Ireland, and is named for a French saint, the cross which stands an impressive 16’8 inches or 5 m tall, is considered a fine example of a Celtic cross in the Irish high cross style.
Photo Credit: Colin Smith (CC BY-SA 2.0)
A blend of Celtic and Christian art
Located in a spectacular monastic site, famous as the birthplace of the Book of Kells, and founded by one of Ireland's patron saints, St. Columcille or Columba in 563 CE, the cross was painstakingly carved from hard, red granite from the Scottish mainland. Dating from around 800 CE, one side depicts scenes from the bible and the other, intricate serpents, knotwork, and raised bosses. This cross is a spectacular blend of Celtic and early Christian culture and art.
Photo Credit: Nick Gibson (CC BY-SA 4.0)
From Granite to Sterling Silver
Our talented silversmiths have taken inspiration from this impressive granite carving in our own recreated Iona cross. Measuring over 1.8 inches high, including a polished bale, the intricate illustrations and Celtic designs of the original carving have been recreated with minute detail on the front and back, all expertly finished. The skill and workmanship are extraordinary.
Over 300 High Stone Crosses
Over 300 high stone crosses that date from around 800 CE to 1200 CE still stand tall in Ireland today. If you enjoyed reading about the Muiredach cross, find out more about the history and symbolism of Celtic crosses or check out the stories behind our other high stone crosses.
High Crosses of Ireland
Keep a piece of Ireland close with one of our recreations in solid sterling silver or gold. Like the original stone crosses they are inspired by, these heirlooms have been built to last.
Ardboe High Cross
AU$320.00
Gold Duleek Celtic Cross
AU$2455.00
Heirloom Muiredach Celtic Cross
AU$260.00
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Jane Chadwick
My Irish Jeweler
Born in Dublin but reared in Canada, as a child I had an interest in Ireland that will be familiar to many young emigrants. I was completely fascinated, wanting to know all about the land of my parents and grandparents. Rare month-long family trips back "Home" cemented my love for Ireland. And I wore my Irish heritage with pride, sporting my tiny silver Claddagh gifted to me by my Irish grandparents until my finger grew too large for it!
As a young adult I moved back to Dublin, studying Geology and Mineralogy in university at historic Trinity College Dublin. After living in Denmark and the Netherlands working as a scientist and university mineralogy lecturer, I finally settled back home in Dublin. I joined the growing family at My Irish Jeweler in 2016, bringing my useful knowledge of metals and minerals as well as my perspective as an Irish emigrant with a love for HOME.
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