Celtic Cross

Known throughout the world as a symbol of Irish Heritage, Celtic Stone Crosses can still be found decorating the beautiful Irish countryside

The oldest “high” stone crosses still standing in Ireland date from the 8th century to the 12th century. They are often intricately carved with knot-work, imagery and inscriptions.

Distinctive Features

The Base: not always present but usually a pyramid shape and sometimes carved, giving height to the cross.

The Shaft: usually divided on all sides with intricate designs

The Cap: at the top of the upper arm of the cross but is often missing in ancient crosses

The Head: subdivided into the centre and the arms. Most stone Celtic Crosses have a distinctive ring shape around the centre of the head.

Meaning And Symbolism

The shape of the head of the cross is considered by many to be the defining feature of the Celtic Cross. The ring shape gives the cross strength, leading some to believe their shape continues a form required for earlier delicate wooden crosses. While others suggest the ring depicts a halo or disc shape around a head. Others think it represents a celestial sphere, like the sun. Still others suggest that the ring and the “rivet” shaped carvings on some early crosses represent the Celtic Shield and the shaft a tree, merging Christian and Celtic imagery.

Through The Ages

Used continuously from the 8th Century, Celtic Crosses were popular in the 18th Century during the “Celtic Revival”. Intricately carved crosses with geometric symbols were used to mark graves and memorials. Since that time, the Celtic Cross has reached beyond monastic sites and graveyards. The Cross appears in modern logos, decorating T-shirts and is even a popular tattoo. The Celtic Cross is recognised worldwide as an icon of Ireland.

The Celtic Cross jewellery we craft is inspired by this fantastic history and beautiful symbolism, reproducing in silver and gold the intricate engravings from ancient stone crosses. We are proud that our crosses are worn by people worldwide who share an appreciation of Irish culture.