Top 10 symbols of Ireland

We are regularly asked what is the “most Irish” symbol, or the “best Irish symbol.” And we typically give the same answer- that depends! Are you looking for something with connections to ancient Ireland, Irish culture, Irish folklore, or indeed something that is exclusive to Ireland alone?

Given all that, it is challenging to give one definitive symbol. But after many, many years, we have finally cracked and made a list. Now, we're not suggesting it's a definitive list, and this caused some discussion here at My Irish Jeweler with disagreements and debate! But in honor of Irish Heritage Month, we are sharing it with you. Read on to see our top 10 symbols of Ireland, ranked:

10. The Celtic Tree of Life

The tradition of a Tree of Life has roots in several faiths and cultures around the world. So, while this isn't a symbol exclusive to Ireland, it is certainly a popular one and one that has survived to this day.

In ancient Ireland, the Tree of Life, or the Crann Bethadh (pronounced: Crown Ba-ha) was revered. Trees were hugely significant and even had legal protections. Our ancient ancestors placed immense value on the food, shelter, and materials that trees provided. Settlements would often have a special sacred tree at their centre where important ceremonies were held, and decisions could be made. It was believed that some trees, like the hazel, were sources of great wisdom, while others acted as doorways, living connections to the gods, spirits and ancestors.

This can be seen in the links to trees in the first known writing of Ireland, Ogham, the Celtic Tree alphabet. Representing sacred wisdom, connection, community and family, the Celtic Tree of Life remains a popular symbol here in Ireland to this day, with numerous tree-planting initiatives working to restore native Irish trees to the land. Learn more about the Celtic Tree of Life.

9. St. Brigid’s Cross

With ties to millennia-old Irish history and Celtic mythology, The Brigid's cross, along with the shamrock and the harp, is a distinctive symbol unique to Ireland - though little known outside it.

For hundreds and possibly thousands of years, crosses of all shapes and sizes, some with three arms, others with four, were woven from reeds or rushes and hung in Irish homes and stables to protect the health of people and livestock. Their main defining feature is the material and techniques used to make them, rather than their form, though the most popular these days feature a diamond shape at the centre with four arms radiating out.

The cross is attributed to the Christian saint, Brigid of Kildare. Still, there is plenty of evidence to suggest this symbol and the practice of making and hanging these crosses also has ties to much older pagan traditions and the goddess Brigid. Representing life, growth, and protection, this is a lovely Irish symbol that has seen a renewal in popularity here in Ireland in recent years with the recognition of the beautiful and complicated history of Brigid, the saint and Goddess. Learn more about Brigid’s Crosses and how to make one yourself.

8. The Warrior Shield

Ok so we may stretching things a little here including the Warrior Shield as a symbol of Ireland! After all, richly ornamented ancient shields and shield bosses have been unearthed across Europe. But given their ceremonial importance in Ireland and, in the case of the bosses, their practical uses for protection, it seemed remiss not to include them! Particularly given that several other Irish symbols, like the Celtic Cross, are thought to include shield-like features. Indeed, one of the most famous of Ireland’s ancient treasures, the Ardagh Chalice, features bosses that call to mind the ancient armor of Celtic warriors.

As it was in ancient times, the shield projects strength, power, protection and beauty. So it’s not hard to see why it was a favored “symbol” and remains to this day a popular design in Celtic art and jewellery in particular.

7. The Triskele

The triskele is an ancient symbol; the first symbol of spirituality, according to some. Although it isn’t uniquely Irish, it does feature in some of the oldest artwork found on the island of Ireland. A few on the team here had it top of the list for this reason alone. Its distinctive and enduring form is apparent in other beloved Irish symbols on this list like the Trinity Knot or Brigid’s Cross. The oldest surviving examples of triskele in Ireland can be found at Neolithic wonders over 5000 years old like Newgrange, and in early Christian treasures like the Book of Kells.

Though the design may vary, at its simplest, the triskele is a triple spiral, with three “limbs” that radiate out from a common centre. Known as the first symbol of spirituality, the triskele has many meanings that have evolved through time. For some, it is a symbol of progress and motion, or interconnectedness and spirituality, of birth, life and death, or the earth, the heavens, and the underworld. Finally, given its association with Ireland, ancient myths and treasures, it is also an enigmatic symbol of Celtic culture. Learn more about the truly ancient origins and history of the Triskele here.

6. The Trinity Knot

Following on from the triskele, there was some debate amongst the team here as to whether the Trinity Knot should be included on its own given that it's a type of Celtic Knot. But the enigmatic symbolism, ancient roots, and the elegant elemental form of the Trinity Knot made it impossible to leave out and we think it deserves it's own entry on our list.

Known to many as the Celtic Love Knot, the Trinity Knot has three interlinked leaf-like shapes giving it a distinctive triangular profile. From these relatively simple shapes a seemingly complex trefoil knot is formed, a knot which cannot be untied. This unbroken nature has seen the Trinity Knot become a symbol of eternal love, and the three leaves of the knot represent past, present and future. More about the origins and meaning of the Trinity Knot and how this versatile symbol is an iconic design that lends itself to ceremony and celebration.

5. The Celtic Cross

Known throughout the world as a symbol of Irish heritage, faith, and family, ancient High stone crosses can still be found decorating the beautiful Irish countryside. The oldest of these date from the 8th to the 12th century. They are often intricately carved, with knot-work, detailed imagery and inscriptions. These details may differ but they all share a distinctive ringed shape at their centre with different meanings given to this feature including: a warrior shield, a divine halo, or indeed the life-giving sun.

We may never know its original significance, but the Celtic cross remains an iconic symbol of Ireland and one which many wear worldwide in celebration of Irish connections.

4. The Claddagh

The Claddagh, or An Cladach in Gaelic, is a famous Irish symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship. The word "Cladach" means rocky beach or shore, a common feature of the west of Ireland where this design originated over 400 years ago. Its design of two hands holding a crowned heart, sums up the enduring ingredients of lasting love, whether romantic or platonic: The hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown loyalty and respect.

This lovely symbolism and beautiful design has seen the Claddagh achieve worldwide recognition as a unique symbol of Ireland. The Claddagh may be offered in celebration of love, as a friendship ring, a promise ring, an engagement, or wedding ring. And, of course, many wear the Claddagh as a beautiful symbol of Irish heritage. Learn more about the meaning and history of this iconic symbol of Ireland and the significance of how the ring is worn.

3. Celtic Knot

Celtic Knots and knot-work are interwoven with Irish cultural legacy. For over 1500 years, they've defined Irish art and metalwork. Celtic Knots run along the pages of ancient manuscripts like the 8th Century Book of Kells. They are engraved on high stone crosses that still stand a millennium later. And they elevate stunning ancient treasures like the Ardagh Chalice. Early precursors to Celtic Knots were spirals, plaits, braids, step and key patterns made to richly symbolise people, animals, and plants.

These symbols evolved into true Celtic Knots, those with no beginning or end, by the 7th Century. Though their exact meaning has been lost in the mists of time, many view them as symbols of eternity and faith, and use them to declare love and unity.

2. The Shamrock

Stemming from the Irish word for young clover, seamair óg, or seamróg, shamrock, as it is more commonly known, is the national flower of Ireland. Alongside the harp, it’s an iconic global symbol of the Emerald Isle.

It flies on the tail of our national airline, it's worn proudly on the chest of our sportsmen and women, and many worldwide wear shamrock each March 17th. An ancient symbol of luck, life, and vitality, with roots in pagan Ireland, learn more about this is a beautiful symbol of Ireland for Patrick’s Day or year round.

1. The Irish Harp

This might surprise some! But our straw poll of the My Irish Jeweler team had the Harp as our number one symbol of Ireland. This isn't so surprising given it’s Ireland's official national emblem. It graces our passport and coins, it’s the seal of the Irish President, the symbol of our government, and the logo of one VERY famous Irish stout.

Representing Ireland and its rich, beautiful culture and history, we love the fact that our country is the only one in the world to have a musical instrument as our official national symbol. Learn more about the Irish harp symbol and the ancient instrument on which it is based.

Honorable mentions

Although they may not be considered classic symbols of Ireland, we feel honorable mentions should go to Connemara Marble, the beautiful stone found exclusively on the west coast of Ireland, the colour green (although contentious), as well as notable characters from our famous folklore; the Children of Lir, the magical horse Enbarr from Tír na nÓg and horses in general, or the good folk themselves, the fairies!

Share your list

We’re sure there are countless more iconic Irish symbols that we are missing. Horrified by our ranking? You can share your "Top 10" here or leave us a comment below. We would be delighted to adapt and add to our list!