Etiquette For Religious Wedding Ceremonies

Many couples will choose to have their wedding ceremony in a religious setting. Whatever your faith, there are certain things which may be different about a wedding in a house of worship, both for the bride and groom and their guests. This guide to etiquette for religious wedding ceremonies will ensure that everything goes smoothly on the special day.

These days it is very common for people to have friends and even family members who are of a different religion (or possibly who follow no religion at all). It is also far more common than it used to be for the bride and groom to come from different faiths. All of this diversity can lead to some confusion on the part of the guests. It is up to the bride and groom to make sure that their guests have an understanding of what is happening, and it also falls upon the witnesses at the wedding ceremony to know how to act and what to do in a church (or synagogue or mosque) wedding.

Some people would say that if the bride and groom have a large number of guests who are not members of their religion then they should have a secular or at least a non-denominational marriage service. While it is generally appropriate for the couple to take their guests' comfort into account, it is truly not fair to deny a bride and groom the opportunity to have their union blessed (or in the case of Catholics, to receive the holy sacrament of marriage). This is one of the few parts of the wedding where the couple really does have the right to put their own beliefs and wishes first; that is not to say, however, that they should not attempt to do so in a thoughtful manner.

A very simple thing which the bride and groom can do from the start is to give guests a hint about what is to come with their wedding invitations. The name of the house of worship being listed as the ceremony site should make it obvious to anyone that the ceremony will be religious in nature, of course, but there is more than can be done. It is particularly important that Roman Catholics specify that guests are invited to a Nuptial Mass, if they have opted to have a full Mass with Communion. The Nuptial Mass by its nature is one of the longer wedding ceremonies, and guests appreciate having a sense of what to expect.

When a wedding ceremony is religious in nature, it may include rituals which are unfamiliar to some of the guests. This is when a wedding program can come in really handy for so much more than listing the names of the bridesmaids or thanking your aunt for loaning the bride her pearl wedding jewelry as the "something borrowed". If a couple will be having a Jewish service for instance, it would be very nice to include brief explanations of some of the customs, such as the chuppah, so that people of other faiths can follow along and also so they can have a greater appreciation for the significance of any special rituals. It can also be considerate to include a notation such as, "We invite all those who have been baptized to join in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist" or something to that effect at a Catholic ceremony. That helps guests know what to do; for instance in this case, it would be a polite way of letting non-Christians realize that they should remain seated during Communion.

Wedding guests have a few responsibilities of their own at a religious wedding. Chief among them is to show respect, whether they share the bride and groom's faith or not. This means dressing appropriately in demure clothing with classic accessories like pearl wedding jewelry, rather than showing up in something risque or flashy. When a guest is unfamiliar with the rituals of a particular religion, they should simply do their best to follow along: stand when others stand, sit when they sit, and so forth. Guests should not take part in any religious customs which are reserved for members of a religion to which they do not belong. And last, but not least, wedding guests should refrain from obviously checking their watches to see "how much longer this thing can possibly drag on", even if it is a full Nuptial Mass! With these pointers in mind, the wedding ceremony should be every bit as meaningful and blessed as the bride and groom intended.

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3 Tips to Get the Great Deals on Religious Rings and Chains

Women have worn jewelry since time immemorial. Earlier jewelry was worn only to make a fashion and style statement. More and more people are now wearing religious jewelry and they are proud to wear the same. There is nothing wrong in wearing jewelry symbolizing any religion, it conveys to others your belief in god and it makes your resolve (in religion) much stronger.

It would not be wrong to say that religion and jewelry go hand in hand and compliment each other very well. You can look fashionable with the trendy and stylish religious jewelry and you are also able to stay close to your religious faith. In many cases it has been seen and noted that it gives them extra confidence when they are wearing religious jewelry.

Even the branded companies now make a lot religious jewelry and you will be flabbergasted to see the style and delicacy of the product. There are many religious chains and rings available in the market, just to name a few, a Catholic Cross Pendant, Cross rings, Christian fish, praying pendants that is worn on your hand. Buying jewelry is a time consuming process and the same holds true when you are buying religious jewelry.

There are a few things, which you should keep in mind before making your purchases in order to get the best deal on religious rings and chains:

Invest time before making your purchase.

This is something, which is very conveniently overlooked because more often than not you are short of time. But in case you are short of time then it is advisable that you don't purchase your religious jewelry in a hurry. You will never be able to get a good deal in this case. If you have done your homework properly, which means your research is up to the mark then you are sure to get a good deal on your religious jewelry, be it the chain or ring. A lot of research on the Internet will help you and you will get the clarity of what you want.

Don't shop from stores that are not reliable and are in-experienced.

This again is very important, you should always go and visit a store that has good reputation and enjoys a lot of credibility in the market. This is only possible if you are visiting a store that has plenty of experience in dealing with jewelry in general and religious jewelry in particular.

It is advisable that you don't buy religious jewelries online and see the engravings very carefully.

It is advisable and recommended that you should do all your research on the Internet but you should always physically go and purchase your religious jewelry. You will always be able to get a better deal if you visit a few stores before making your final purchase. You are bound to get a very good deal on religious rings and chains. Engravings are very important hence look for these engravings very carefully and cautiously.

Let's have a Quick recap:
Keep 3 things in mind to get the best deals on Religious Catholic Jewelry Rings and chains:
? Invest time before making your purchase.
? Don't shop from stores that are not reliable and are in-experienced.
? You don't buy Religious jewelry online.

Mens Religious Jewelry: The Outer Show of the Spirit Within

For most of the history of mankind, the women have always used their jewelry to show off or to show up, however, mens religious jewelry does deserve a place in the books as well. This is the continuation of the men vs. women syndrome. That being said; it is of utmost importance that we go on to say that the religious jewelry that adorn men's bodies are for the expression of faith, not necessarily the show of ostentatious living like it used to be. To explain:

During Biblical times, the men did wear a lot of jewelry. This was, in large part, to show their importance and as a way of holding onto their wealth. The show of jewelry was more of a symbol than it is now of the status of the wearer and how rich or prominent they were. There are many stories about how the father's greatest asset to leave his sons was his rings. A new ruler was "crowned" and then given the holy ring. Many of the Egyptian monarchs were buried with all of their jewelry in a vain attempt to "take it with them". Mens religious jewelry was as common as it was gaudy.

A very large portion of the religious jewelry was made from common, natural materials such as bones, wood, shells, and stones. Then, of course, the richer the person, they moved up into precious stones and ivory, inlaid with other stones or covered with gold. Some mens jewelry was even made from gold and silver, as they are now, not so much as a symbol of their wealth but as an indication that they appreciated the thoughts and feelings that this showing gave them while they went about their daily activities.

Mens religious jewelry, today, will take on many forms. These jewelry items are such things as rings with inscriptions, tie clips with a fish symbol. As a matter of fact, many things that are used as a religious expression can be seen with this very outward sign of Christianity on it! Belts, wallets, necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings; you name it and it can be used as a symbol of religious expression in day-to-day social activities.

The Celtic Crosses that symbolize an Irish Spirit of God's love can be seen in almost all walks of life except those areas where religious expression is forbidden. The standard Christian Cross or the Catholic's Crucifix is a common sight on many men in everyday life. The signs of friendship that is displayed with a simple smile on the yellow background can be considered, by some, to be a genuine sign of Christian tenderness, especially in times of stress or other traumatic occasions. There are quite a few men who would not wear any kind of jewelry, except their wedding band, however, that is slowly changing as men find out that people do appreciate the outward appearance of showing the faith and/or familiar religious symbols. That kind of person that does "wear their religion on their sleeve," so to speak. It's not surprising therefore, that all types of mens religious jewelry are making a big come back!

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Catholic Religious Jewelry For Your Confirmation Gifts

One of the most popular gifts to give during Catholic celebration like christenings, first communions and confirmation are Catholic religious jewelries. Christenings and baptisms can provide the best avenue to have your little girl's ear pierced and a religious jewelry for an earring can be provided in this instance. First communion is a vital rite of passage for the Catholic youngsters. And confirmation sets the place of the youth in the church. It is also a necessary step a Catholic youth takes into adulthood. Confirmation gifts are equally important as well and they serve as a constant reminder for the youth of their promise to the Church.

One of the most recognized Catholic religious jewelry icons will be the crucifix. It is timeless and remains to be a very significant and powerful representative of the Christian faith. There are a variety of versions and designs that can satisfy the needs of every individual, including those who will use it as confirmation gifts for their beloved child who will undergo the Sacrament of Confirmation.

The crucifix can be simple, thin and gold-plated imagery of the cross and is usually worn as a pendant for a necklace. Simple gift ideas like these commemorate the occasion as well as provide the recipient with a meaningful and memorable gift for the event. The more elaborate the design and detailing involved will prove the necklace to be more expensive than those done with simple measures. But those who can afford it will find extreme pleasure with the intricate design and beautiful craftsmanship of the hand-sculpted cross pendants. It will certainly be worth every penny.

Aside from the cross, there are also other designs in the Catholic religious jewelry collection. You can find gold square designed with portraits of Jesus or Mama Mary, even other saints but they are much less noticeable as spiritual icons in comparison to the cross. But each of these pendants still offers the same touch of elegance and class. There are also pendants that enclose birth stones and other rare gems that can serve to capture the personality of each individual and they too can serve as great confirmation gifts for your candidates for confirmation.

Aside from pendants and necklaces, there are also Patron Saint medals that can serve as gifts as well. These medals are usually fashioned from sterling silver and often portray the Patron Saint performing their canonized task.

More often than not you can find these jewelries at your favorite Christian bookstore and places where you can usually purchase Catholic items. Sometimes they are also available at your local jewelry stores, but if you would like a more specialized or even customized design going online will be your best option. You will often find a variety of confirmation gifts online and you will surely find your best option there along with discounts and other incentives you will find online, make sure you take advantage of these offers for the perfect gift for your confirmation candidate.

Jim F. Roberts has been expertly writing articles for 5 years on a variety of topics of interest. He loves to attend birthdays, wedding and anniversaries, his resourcefulness led him to discover unique and creative Confirmation Gifts that are not too expensive.

Religious Figures in Ireland's History

As with many cultures, religion factors significantly into Irish history. These people have helped shape the lives of many Irish throughout the years, and help bring the word of God to Ireland. Who are they and what have they contributed to Ireland's history? Read on to find out.

St. Brendan- St. Brendan's story, like that of many other saints, doesn't begin with him performing majestic works to rise quickly to the role of saint. Brendan was born in Ireland in County Kerry, around 484 A.D. Christianity at this time was still slowly spreading through the isles of Ireland as well as Great Britain, and Brendan immediately took to the religious teachings. He began missionary work in 512 A.D. and established multiple monasteries in Ireland and throughout the United Kingdom.

There are conflicting accounts as to what happened next in Brendan's life-some say he set out on a seven year journey searching for the Land of Promise but there's nothing really documenting what his intent was. An explorer named Timothy Serevin took up the challenge of proving that Brendan's travels took him across the ocean, as there had been stone carvings found in Wyoming (in the United States) bearing ancient Celtic script. It's difficult to concretely prove that St. Brendan himself created these found stone carvings, but evidence certainly seems to make it seem true.

St. Brigid of Kildare- St. Brigid is an enormously celebrated figure in Ireland. Described in accounts as "handsome, strong and brave," much of what we know about Brigid today comes from folklore rather than accurate historical accounts. Born in 452 C.E. Brigid was the child of a wealthy chieftain and his slave woman. Sometime in her childhood her father sold her mother to a pagan household, although it's thought that Brigid soon returned home, leaving her mother behind.

Although she was still considered a slave of her father, Brigid gave away her father's possessions to anyone in need, thus earning her the reputation of generosity. Her father later tried to arrange a marriage, and Brigid, horrified at the thought, disfigured her beautiful face so men would fine her unattractive.

Ever wily and intelligent, Brigid saved herself from being sold to the King of Leinster by getting rid of the sword her father planned on giving to the King. After convincing her father once and for all that marriage was not the path for her, Brigid took the vows of a nun. She wanted to establish a religious community for Irish women, and she chose to do in Kildare. She actually settled on a site that held a shrine to the Celtic goddess Brigid, after whom she had probably been named. Although Brigid's story seems simply, she is thought to have produced many miracles in her lifetime and is well remembered for her inspirational spirit.

Catherine McAuley, The First Sister of Mercy- During the late 1700's, being an Irish Catholic was not an easy thing. James McAuley was a devout Irish Catholic, and tried hard to impose those beliefs on his family in spite of a world of prejudice against them. He stood up for what he believed in, and that was not lost on his daughter Catherine. James passed away in 1783, and Catherine vowed to honor his memory.

She went to work for a couple in 1803, and began to reach out to the couple's servants as well as poor people in the area. She actually was able to get the Callaghan's to convert to Catholicism, and upon their death, she received a large inheritance which today would be about $1 million. She immediately went to work with her money, establishing the House of Mercy on Baggot Street in Dublin. She recruited other woman to help her to reach out to poorer communities, and such forward thinking and action was unheard of for women during this time. Catherine and some of the other women were eventually able to study under the Presentation Sisters, and took vows in 1831 as the Sisters of Mercy.

Leigh Maher researches and writes about Celtic jewelry, and specialises in Celtic wedding rings, engagement rings and bridal jewelry. Click here for more information about Irish jewelry.

Religious Jewelry Gifts That Don't Lack Style

Many People often wear religious jewelry as a manifestation of their faith. When you give religious jewelry as a gift you are acknowledging that persons spiritual commitment to whatever religion they believe in.

Today religious jewelry is worn for fashion and style as well as an expression of religious commitment. Religious jewelry has indeed a wide diverse market in the jewelry industry. Religious Jewelry gifts once consisted mainly of rosaries or small beaded bracelets. But today jewelry designers have expanded the religious jewelry market to include unique jewelry items like bracelets, pendants, brooch pins, rings, and any other style of jewelry that shows an individual's religious belief in their God.

In the Catholic tradition, a gift of jewelry is often given as a Baptism gift, a Communion gift, or a Confirmation gift. Tiny rosaries or small bracelets are often given to babies upon their Baptism, while necklaces and rosaries are often chosen as gifts for First Holy Communion. For Catholic children, however, it is Confirmation - and the Saint medals that are the most meaningful.

Today Sterling silver crosses and cross pendants can be found in different sizes and styles. Catholic jewelry in styles ranging from the traditional to the modern can be a bangle bracelet depicting the Last Supper, which is a very popular item when it comes to Christian jewelry. This type of Christian jewelry item comes in solid gold or silver and has details carved over it.

Egyptian religious jewelry usually includes motifs of the 'Eye of Horus'. The 'Scarab' - a good luck symbol and 'Ankh' - the symbol of eternal life can also be found on religious jewelry pieces from Egypt. Jewish religious jewelry uses sacred symbols and geometry from the Qumran and the Kabbalah.

Native American religious jewelry usually includes various elements of nature. The Prayer watch is a piece of Islamic jewelry that is very valuable to followers. It shows accurate prayer times all over the world in Western and Hijra dates. It is bilingual - in English and Arabic. Buddha pendants, Islamic charms and medals of Christian saints are preferred religious jewelry pieces.

Most religious jewelry stores specialize in lapel pins, crucifixes, rosary beads and pendants and also charms. Angel charms are one of the most significant religious jewelry pieces. There are many religious people who believe in angels so this type of gift would be very much appreciated by them. Jewelry designers today see the need to not only design jewelry for people of faith, but they make an effort to make it beautiful and fashionable as well.

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Celtic Cross Jewelry: Cultural, Religious and Representation of Faith!

The history of Celtic cross jewelry goes back as far as 2000 BC. This was a time that had craftsmen working in gold and silver and many nice pieces were made from wood. There are many interpretations of what all of the ornamentation was and is. However, many wearers of religious jewelry treat it as a matter of faith and enjoy the beauty of the piece, and the way that their faith is reinforced every time they look at it!

As a brief, rather staid, description of what it looks like: Celtic cross jewelry comprises a cross and a circle that surrounds the center junction of the vertical and horizontal pieces. There are usually rather ornate carvings of animals and other devices on the cross itself and these are a part of the national heritage of the countries of Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

The Symbolism:

The circle has been said to represent the love of God in its completeness; others hold that it is the Sun that was worshiped by many of the unchurched. Others have said that St. Patrick saw a perfect circle on a stone and drew the cross around it, thus making the first Celtic cross. Irish Catholic priests say that the circle represents Gods love through Christ's sacrifice.

There are other symbolism beliefs that need to be explored to some degree: It can be seen as a navigation tool. The compass that can show us the way through the seas of faith that sometimes can be rough and unforgiving. The transitions of seasons: each of the four axes can be seen as the representation of the four seasons and the festivals that are held during the different quarters of the year. The symbolic representation of night and day: the top of the horizontal bar can be seen as the day and the bottom of the bar can be viewed as the night. The circle in the middle serves as the sun going up and going down: one day.

The Popularity:

With the symbolism of the carvings, the Christian church was able to advance ideas of God's love for all men to the pagans that would look at the depictions as being some of their own. They could be shown that the church was including them in their worship, not warring against them as many had before them to their own perverted way. This matter of inclusion was a very strong draw for them and they had this representation to take with them and hang on their own walls for further proof of the good intentions of the missionaries. Celtic cross jewelry is still very popular today as a symbol of the love of God and the love that exists between God and man.

The Significance of the Celtic Cross Jewelry:

No one absolutely knows where the original Celtic cross came from. They still like the idea that something so simple can be a very large part of the Christian church history as it has changed the shape of the faith for many millions of people, today. Celtic cross jewelry: The history of faith!

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Religious Jewelry: A Memorable Gift

The wearing of religious jewelry is steeped in many faiths. Christian jewelry often takes the form of a cross that is worn by the Christian as an outward symbol of his or her inner faith in Jesus.

In the Catholic tradition, religious jewelry is often given as a Baptism gift, a Communion gift, or a Confirmation gift. Tiny rosaries or small bracelets are often given to babies upon their Baptism, while necklaces and rosaries are often chosen as gifts for First Holy Communion. For Catholic children, however, it is Confirmation - and the Saint medals they receive - that is often the most meaningful.

In preparation for their Confirmation, Roman Catholic pre-teens choose a Saint's name to take as their own. It's not uncommon for them to pour over books about Saints and to query relatives about their own Confirmation names. Often, relatives will bring out the Saints medals they received as gifts upon their Confirmations and share vivid recollections about the significance of their Patron Saints.

Presenting Saint medals to Roman Catholics experiencing their Confirmation is common, as is the gifting of other religious jewelry. Christian jewelry, such as gold or silver crucifixes, Holy Spirit pins, and rosaries are also given. But it is often saint medals that mean the most to the girl or boy being Confirmed.

Some of the most popular Patron Saints are:

St. Jude - The Patron Saint of desperate cases, St. Jude was one of the 12 Apostles. His feast day is October 28.

St. Matthew - One of the 12 Apostles, St. Matthew is the Patron Saint of bankers, possibly because he was a tax collector prior to his conversion. His feast day is September 21.

St. Philomena - Although much of her life remains a mystery, it is believed that St. Philomena was martyred at the age of 14. This is why she is the Patron Saint of infants and children.

St. Thomas Aquinas - Born in 1226, St. Thomas Aquinas is the Patron Saint of students and of universities. His feast day is January 28.

St. Agnes - The Patron Saint of girls, more specifically of the Children of Mary, St. Agnes was martyred at the age of 13. Her feast day is January 21.

Religious jewelry is not only an adornment - it is a manifestation of faith. When given as a gift, it is an acknowledgement of the spirituality of the recipient. When worn, it is a reminder of one's faith in God and a recognition of one's humble origins.

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Cross Necklaces - The History and How Wearing Religious Jewelry Can Express Your Christian Devotion

The history of cross necklaces used to display Christian devotion can be traced back at least to the 2nd century. Tertullian, a great Church Father, described the faithful Christian followers as cross devotees. And, it was noted that it was the center of the Christian's life.

In the 3rd century St. Clement of Alexandria again describes the great devotion of Christians to the cross of Christ and defines it as the symbol of the Lord. St. Paulinus of Nola, at the end of the 4th century noted that it was recognized as both a sacred symbol of the passion of Christ and also a sign for protection and defense.

Archaeologists have found numerous items marked with a cross from many civilizations dating to the 5th and 6th centuries. These articles included: drawings and etchings on walls of burial chambers and catacombs in Rome, paintings in Egypt, coins, earthenware vessels, mosaics, devotional medals and saint medals, necklaces, rings, and liturgical vestments. They were even placed on documents from the 10th century believed to be used as signatures. They have been depicted on Christian Churches and monuments from the 4th century, and of course beautifully decorate our Catholic and Christian churches and Basilicas today.

Crosses were not only seen in artwork. As early as the 6th century beautiful necklaces were shown to be worn by Christians to demonstrate their devotion to Christ. Large pectoral crosses were worn by Catholic, Anglican, and Protestant clergy as a sign of reverence, devotion, and often to designate the level of the clergy in the church hierarchy. They were made of gold, silver, platinum, and often contained beautiful gemstones.

The use of a cross necklaces to display relics was identified as early as the 6th century. These reliquaries contained relics of the True Cross of Christ or relics of the saints. They were worn by clergy, royalty, and lay persons. One very interesting discovery demonstrates this use among Christians as a demonstration of their faith and devotion. St. Cuthbert was a monk and later a bishop of Lindisfurne, England. He was responsible for many miracles even prior to his death in 687. In 698 when they exhumed his body they found it uncorrupt. During the Danish invasion monks fled in fear of their safety and carried the body of the saint with them, wandering for years to Cumberland and other cities before it was finally taken to Durham, England. Another miracle occurred here. According to tradition it was believed that this miracle was St. Cuthbert indicating his desire to have his burial spot there. The incorrupt body of the saint has his final resting place in a cathedral in Durham. Interestingly, they also found in his tomb a very beautiful jeweled cross necklace.

Tombs of queens and kings were also discovered with fine religious jewelry of gold, silver, and gemstones. Another famous historical account identified both a reliquary and gemstone cross necklace in a tomb of a queen in the middle of the 6th century. Queen Theodelinda of Lombards received a very precious gift of a reliquary containing a relic of the True Cross of Christ from Pope St. Gregory the Great, an early Church Father and Doctor of the Church. Both of these wonderful expressions of Christian faith in jewelry are still preserved today in the treasury of Monza.

What a marvelous tradition we have as Christians in demonstrating our faith and devotion to Christ by proudly wearing cross necklaces whether it is a simple design of silver or gold or elaborate gemstone. We can follow in the footsteps of our early Christian brothers and sisters who were unafraid to display their Christianity daily by wearing this beautiful religious jewelry.

Marianne Buzzelli is a Catholic writer and entrepreneur. To learn more about our beautiful Christian heritage and to join faithful Christians throughout the centuries in expressing your faith and devotion with fine religious jewelry and saint medals, go to http://www.holycrossnecklaces.com/

Silver Cross Pendants, Religious Medals, and Celtic Jewelry in Today's World

Silver Cross Pendants, religious medals, and cross jewelry are all being worn by people of all ages, backgrounds, and generations, for fashion statements nowadays. The religious jewelry industry has exploded with both the religious elite and non-conforming liberals alike. The most popular of all religious items still being the simple Christian Cross or Catholic Crucifix. Christian Crosses can be seen on all kinds of people from Christians, to the average Joe, to rock musicians. Crucifixes can be seen on Catholics and other Catholic medals can be seen on all kinds of people nowadays for fashion statements.

Celtic Jewelry is also a very popular and it originated in Ireland. Celtic crosses have an older rustic look to them and have become just as popular as the simple Christian cross or Catholic Crucifix. Claddagh celtic jewelry has also become very popular in recent years. Celtic jewelry has become very popular across Europe and the United States.

Religious jewelry comes in many different shapes, sizes, and forms. There are gold crucifixes, crucifix pendants, and crucifix jewelry earrings. Jewelry crosses have also become very popular for both Christians and non-Christians. Religious jewelry has become very popular with men especially with Christian Rock Bands. However, it is just as popular with women especially with True Love Waits religious rings and promise rings. Religious jewelry has become very fashionable for people of all walks of life, religions, and backgrounds. It has truly become something for everyone from everywhere to wear and enjoy on a daily basis.

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Celtic Cross Jewelry - Cultural and Religious Meaning

In its simplest form, a Celtic cross is a basic traditional cross with a ring surrounding the intersection. Celtic Crosses are both distinctive and beautiful, but lack the suffering element of the crucifix. Celtic jewelry is one the most easily recognized examples of Christianity.

Celtic cross designers make Sterling Silver Celtic Crosses, gold Celtic Crosses, and wooden Celtic Crosses; or, they can create these beautiful pieces of art from a large variety of other materials.

Celtic jewelry, like the Celts themselves, has a rich history and a proud tradition. Celtic cross jewelry, Celtic knot jewelry, and their beautiful Claddagh rings have been admired and desired for literally thousands of years. Celtic jewelry uses delicate design and intricate Celtic symbols to create its intensely beautiful jewelry pieces.

Today, there is much confusion about the origins of the Celtic cross; both Catholics and Presbyterians claim the cross as their own. While still others say it originates from Pagan beliefs. The cross did become a common symbol of Christianity in the 4th century, when Christianity spread to the British Isles, and the Celtic cross was combined with the Christian cross.

According to Irish legend, St. Patrick created the first Celtic cross by drawing a circle over a Latin cross. For an Irish Catholic, the circle in the Celtic cross may symbolize eternity and the endlessness of God's love. Or, it can even represent a halo emanating from Christ.

Some say the four "arms" of the Celtic symbol represent the elements (fire, earth, air, and water). Others believe the cross denotes the four directions of the compass, and still others feel it represents human existence (mind, body, soul and heart).

If you are of Scottish, Irish, or Welsh descent, you might wear the cross as a symbol of your ethnic heritage. Wearing the Celtic cross is very popular and beautiful way to signify both your faith and your proud ancestry.

While there are many different thoughts and beliefs about the Celtic cross, there is wide agreement that the ring surrounding the intersection symbolizes eternity. Whether by design or not, the circle surrounding the intersection of the cross has come to represent the everlasting glory of God.

Celtic cross jewelry has also come to represent the conversion of non-believers through means of inclusion, not war. By combining pagan designs with the Christian cross, the Church was able to convert what would later become its most faithful supporters, the Celts.

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Celtic crosses

A Brief History in Religious Jewelry

Jewelry is a broad term that describes any ornamental adornment on the body. It includes toe rings to tiaras and everything in between. Jewelry has been used in every culture throughout history and in many different ways. While in our culture today jewelry serves mostly an aesthetic purpose, jewelry can serve other functions as well. Jewelry is used to represent social or official rank, age, marital status, and tribal affinity. In addition, jewelry serves as emblems of religious, social, and political affiliation. In fact, one of the very first uses of jewelry was to show religious affiliation. The following are the main cultures that began the use of religious jewelry and the common symbols and uses of their jewelry.

Egyptian Religious Jewelry

Religious jewelry in Ancient Egypt was very symbolic. Some common symbols in Ancient Egyptian religious jewelry include the scarab (beetle), lotus, serpent, falcon, and the eye. The scarab is a symbol for good luck and resurrection while the "Eye of the Horus" represents healing. A common symbol of the time called the "Ankh" is meant to represent eternal life. Religious jewelry was extravagant, consisting of gold and semi-precious stones and were worn by men and women alike. When the Roman Era arrived, Egyptian religious jewelry was made of cheaper materials and more Christian symbols were used. When Islam arrived in Egypt men were forbidden to wear gold jewelry. At this time silver jewelry became more popular in religious jewelry in Egypt. Religious jewelry is still widely used in Egypt, but does not have the same extravagance as the Ancient Egyptian religious jewelry.

Roman Christianity and Religious Jewelry

Art and architecture thrived when St. Constantine Christianized the Roman Empire. At this time several popular symbols were created that are still used in Christian art and jewelry. These symbols include the cross, the rosary, and the Christian fish charm. The cross is a symbol of God's love and a reminder of Christ's suffering. Rosary beads are prayer beads that began in the Roman Christian world but are now used predominately by the Catholic Church (officially accepted by the Catholic Church during the rosary approbation in 1520). Rosary beads are also used in the Islam and Buddhist faith. The Christian fish charm came about when early Christians would make an acronym with the Greek word for fish, "ichthys," Iesous Christos Theou Yios Soter (Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior). This symbol attracted less attention to the persecuted Christians. The Christian charm remains very popular today.

Native American Jewelry

Native American religious jewelry was a symbol for nature, played a role in religious ceremonies, and represented status. Natural materials were used in their jewelry including feathers along with minerals such as turquoise and metals like silver. These natural materials were a reminder of the Earth around them. During healing ceremonies and harvest rituals, the people would take care to wear specific kinds of religious jewelry that were the right color, made of the right materials, and representing the right symbol for that event. The jewelry that is worn by a person is representative of the different stages of life an individual has entered into. In several tribes adolescents are initiated into adulthood when they receive the spiritual totem consisting of shells, beads, or symbols from nature. Native American religious jewelry was also given to women after there first menses and to newly married couples. Religious jewelry has played a significant role in Native American culture.

Because our culture today uses jewelry mostly for decorative purposes we often forget the roots of jewelry and how, to some cultures, it can have a deeper spiritual meaning. Recognizing the importance of this religious jewelry in other cultures allows us to see the greater symbolic uses that jewelry can be used for.

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Tips for Religious Wedding Ceremonies

Wedding ceremonies which take place in a church, synagogue, or other house of worship can be especially meaningful. There are some things which the bride and groom can do to make their ceremony as special as possible, while also making it meaningful for their guests. These are some tips for religious wedding ceremonies.

Tip No. 1: Ask a dear family member to do a ceremony reading. The support your family and friends can give you for your wedding goes beyond shopping for wedding gowns, bridal jewelry sets, and wedding favors. To really make your ceremony more personal, invite someone you love to do a reading, rather than relying on your minister or officiant to do all the readings. Some churches have set lists of Bible readings from which the bride and groom can choose (usually one from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament); take the time to carefully consider all the available readings to select the ones which are the most relevant to your relationship with your soon-to-be-spouse.

Tip No. 2: Include family heirlooms in your wedding ceremony whenever possible. Borrow a family quilt or prayer shawl to cover the chuppah for a Jewish marriage ceremony. Carry a small family Bible or white prayer book decorated with a spray of flowers instead of a bouquet. Some brides have the florist add a few pearls or crystals to the floral spray to complement their bridal jewelry sets. You might opt to include the same Biblical readings in your wedding as your parents or grandparents had int theirs. If you are having a wedding program, include a note about the special family heirlooms or customs you have chosen for your ceremony so that your guests can appreciate them as well.

Tip No. 3: Use your wedding program to share information about your religious customs to your guests. Especially if you will have guests from a variety of faiths, this can add tremendously to their comprehension of the ceremony as it unfolds. Include notes about the reasons behind Jewish customs like the chuppah, or explain the crowning ceremony of a Greek Orthodox wedding. The program can also include information about what to do during parts of the ceremony, such as: "During the Nuptial Mass, Catholic guests are welcome to join in the Eucharist. All other guests are invited to come forward with their arms crossed over their chests to receive a blessing."

Tip No. 4: Take advantage of any pre-wedding preparation courses that your church or synagogue may offer. In some cases, such as Catholic wedding preparation, there is a set course of required classes. Other churches may not require classes, but might offer things such as weekend retreats for engaged couples. They not only provide guidance on how to live your married life according to your faith, but help to lay the foundation for a successful marriage by fostering open communication about all sorts of relationship issues.

Tip No. 5: Be respectful of your setting. If you chose to get married in a house of worship, be certain to take the necessary steps to show respect and honor to your church. The bride should select a wedding gown which meets the guidelines of her church or synagogue (whether they are official or merely implied). If you have the option of selecting whatever music you like, choose something tasteful for your recessional, avoiding songs with any "questionable" lyrics. While most houses of worship do not charge a set fee for use of their facilities, it is customary to offer a donation. Last but not least, remember that one should never hold a receiving line inside a house of worship, because one cannot play host in God's house. Have your receiving line outside the church or at your reception venue.

Guy has been writing about society and weddings for a long time. If you have a topic you would like to know about, let us know at http://silverlandjewelry.com/. We are proud to handcraft elegant bridal jewelry sets made especially for each of our brides. All jewelry orders over $99 receive free shipping.