A Symbol of Ireland: The Shamrock
Written by Liz Maguire on Feb 25, 2020 | 0 Comments
How the Shamrock Came to be a Symbol of Ireland
Dating back to the ancient Celts, the Shamrock has long been associated as a symbol of Ireland. In this blog, we’ll look briefly at the history of the Shamrock as an ancient Celtic symbol to its popular status today.
History of the Shamrock
Shamrock, or “seamróg” which means “young clover” in Irish, is a stem-rooting perennial with three leaves which is native to Ireland. The ancient Celts believed that the “triad” or the three leaves of the plant was symbolic of their Pagan goddesses. The symbol became representative of the ancient Celtic view of Mother Earth: the maiden, the mother and the grandmother.
The Saint and His Shamrock
For many, the shamrock and Saint Patrick are synonymous. And while Saint Patrick has done much to help in the permanency of the Shamrock as a symbol of Ireland, its origins indeed predate the famous figure! In the 5th Century when Saint Patrick arrived in Ireland he adopted the plant as a teaching tool in his Catholic ministry. Long before his arrival, the Celts had been inscribing similar-looking Shamrock-like symbols throughout Europe. Called a “Triskelion” this three-part symbol dates back to the ancient Greeks. These symbols can still be found on historic landmarks all over Ireland today.
The Shamrock Today
It is spectacular to see such an ancient symbol of vitality and life, still celebrated today. Many visitors to Ireland will choose to mark their travels with an elegant Shamrock accessory. On Ireland’s National Day of March 17th -- Saint Patrick’s Day -- many will wear Shamrocks proudly to celebrate their Irish connection. But at My Irish Jeweler, we believe that Shamrocks are a year-round wardrobe staple. Need help choosing? A great place to start is with our Silver Connemara Marble Set Shamrock Pendant for your very own piece incorporating 'Ireland's Gemstone' of Connemara Marble.
Our Shamrock Jewellery
Available in a variety of metals and styles. Designed and made in Ireland. Shipped worldwide in luxury packaging perfect for gifting.
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Liz Maguire
My Irish Jeweler
I was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Thanks to my Irish born father I was lucky enough to regularly visit Ireland -- and receive visitors from Ireland often, to my childhood home. This blending of cultures triggered my interest in Irish art and culture. My love for jewelry was nurtured by my American mom who is an artisan jeweler and dealer. I grew up loving Ireland and jewelry!
Now I happily reside in Dublin, having read Irish Literature and History at Trinity College Dublin. Having a passion for Irish literature, I am particularly interested in the work of poet W.B. Yeats. With the Celtic Revival in the 20th century, Yeats and his contemporaries did much for Irish arts and history. Many of our beautiful pieces at My Irish Jeweler are inspired by the myths and legends, as well as artwork, which gained permanence in Irish heritage as a result of the Celtic Revival.
I look forward to sharing the history and stories which influence the inspiration for our pieces with the My Irish Jeweler readers.
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