Celtic Wedding Rings - Symbols of Everlasting Love

Celtic wedding rings are mystical things. The intricate weaving of silver and gold strands in Celtic wedding bands signifies the intertwining of lovers and the circular nature of all things in our universe.

Marriage ceremonies in ancient Ireland were conducted by Druids & Druidesses. During the marriage ceremony Celtic wedding rings were brought forth with the following words:

“All things in Nature are circular - night becomes day, day becomes night and night becomes day again. The moon waxes and wanes and waxes again. There is Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter and then Spring returns. These things are part of the Great Mysteries. Bride & Groom, do you bring your symbols of these Great Mysteries of Life?”

To this the bride and groom say “We do.” The couple then produces a set of gold Celtic wedding rings repeating the following vows:

The Bride (facing the groom and handing him a Celtic wedding ring):

“Accept in freedom this circle of gold as a token of my vows. With it I pledge my love, my strength and my friendship. I bring thee joy now and for ever. I vow upon this Holy Earth that through you I will honor all men.”

The Groom (facing the bride and handing her the ring):

“Accept in freedom this circle of gold as a token of my vows. With it I pledge my love, my strength and my friendship. I bring thee joy now and for ever. I vow in the face of Heaven that through you I will honor all women.”

The placing of wedding rings on the third finger of the left hand pre-dates the Celts. The symbology of the ring finger, as noted by Ancient Egyptians refers to the ‘vena amoris', or the vein of love. The vein of love is believed to run from the wedding ring finger directly to the heart, to wear a wedding ring on this finger symbolizes the closeness of your partner to your heart.

After the exchange of Celtic wedding rings, the bride and groom are handed lit tapers, the bride receives a lit candle from her mother and the groom from his father. Together then new couple join flames, to light one candle which secures the warmth and light of their union.

Celtic Wedding Rings: Choosing the design

The interlacing of shapes can be found in nearly all forms of Celtic art & expression. The Celtic Cross is among the most famous of these designs, and is replicated in Celtic jewelry, sculpture and carvings. When looking at Celtic wedding rings, be sure that the design is not compromised during sizing. Often certain jewelers, especially those who do not specialize in Celtic wedding rings will sacrifice the integrity of the interwoven design to accommodate finger size.

The circular shape of the wedding ring, with no beginning or end, is a symbol of endless love and devotion. The endless strand of the Celtic knot is also a symbol of eternity and a beautiful compliment to the symbolism of the ring itself. The popularity of Celtic jewelry is growing. Most large jewelers carry a Celtic line. Couples can also have Celtic wedding rings custom made, choosing the exact shape, width, and design--- in silver, gold, white gold and platinum.

We have chosen two authentically Irish jewelers providing a wide selection of Celtic wedding ring designs. The Irish Shop offers wonderful Irish products, from hand made clothing to beautiful jewelry. Their Celtic wedding ring selection is impressive.