The Celtic Cross
The Celtic cross was a sacred symbol long before the dawn of Christianity. In Pagan times it represented many things, the four winds, North, South, East and West, and also the four seasons. At the centre of the cross or wheel is the meeting of the heavens and earth where a soul can find enlightenment. The Celtic Cross is usually depicted as a cross within a circle and it is sometimes regarded as a sacred symbol of the sun. For Celtic druids it is the cross part that represents the sun while the circle represents the moon. The Irish Celtic cross is distinguished by the ring at it’s centre and this is said to be a symbol of eternity and of God’s infinite love.
The Christian celtic cross tends to be less symmetrical than the pagan counterpart and it places the ring where the head of Christ was on the cross. The lower arm of the cross is extended. Today the Celtic Cross is often used as a symbol of one’s Celtic ancestry, be that Irish, Scottish, Welsh or Cornish. It is believed to have a protective influence. Celtic cross jewellery is available in many different forms and materials. Silver and pewter are the most popular but you may find pendants and other items of jewellery in this section crafted in other materials. The Celtic cross is often inlaid with precious or semi precious stones and would make a lovely gift for a loved one.
You can find a lovely selection of jewellery in the Ethnic Bits Shop.