There are several different styles of Celtic spiral jewelry. The Triquetra, meaning 'three-cornered' is the Celtic symbol for the holy trinity. It is often carved into rock used in churches. The Triskelion, a Greek term meaning 'three-legged', looks like three legs running. This Celtic symbol represents competition and man's accomplishments. The Five-fold Celtic spiral pattern represents balance. The four outer circles symbolize the four elements: earth, water, air, and fire, with a cirlce uniting all of the elements to achieve balance.
St. Brigid's crosses are the other popular Celtic jewelry item. Saint Brigid was born in 450 in Faughart in County Louth as an illegitimate daughter of a slave and Dubhtach, the slave owner. She was sent to be raised by a druid. In her travels, her intent was to heal and bring relief to the poor and ill. During one of these visits, she made her first St. Brigid's cross out of straw, said a prayer for the person and the person recovered. St. Brigid's crosses are hung in homes today to protect against illness and epidemics. Her feast day is February 1 and is called Imbolc.
