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Celtic cross jewelry has a long and mysterious history. The symbolic meaning of the Celtic cross is a topic that is widely debated. Whatever its original meaning, there is one thing that is certain; Celtic cross jewelry is one of the worlds most visually stunning representations of Christianity. A Celtic cross is a cross with a circle surrounding the cross pieces, and, usually, intricate knotwork designs or animal depictions carved onto the cross itself. Celtic cross jewelry is part of the national heritage of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The symbolism of Celtic cross jewelry: There are many explanations for why Celtic cross jewelry looks like it does. The most common theory is that the circle represents the sun, worshipped by the pagan Celts, and that the early Christian missionaries incorporated it into the cross as a way to convert the pagans. Another legend says that St. Patrick, while preaching to the Celts, was shown a sacred standing stone marked with a circle, representing the moon goddess. St. Patrick drew a Latin cross through the circle and blessed the sacred stone, thereby creating the first Celtic cross. There are many theories that explain the circle in Celtic cross jewelry as a symbol of eternity. Irish Catholic priests claim that the circle represents God's endless love as shown through Christ's sacrifice. Others claim that it represents the offer of hope and salvation through Christ to the faithful. These are just a few of the legends surrounding the design of Celtic cross jewelry. The popularity of Celtic cross jewelry: The popularity of Celtic cross jewelry stems from the fact that it symbolizes all that is good and right about Christianity. Whether by design or not, the circle has come to represent the everlasting glory of God. Without beginning or end, the glory of God shines upon us all. Celtic cross jewelry has also come to represent the conversion of heathens through means of inclusion, not war. By incorporating pagan designs into the Christian cross the Church was able to convert what would latter become its most ardent supporters, the Celts. Here is a good page to view the different styles available in Celtic cross jewelry. Where is the best place to purchase Celtic cross jewelry: To get an idea of the different styles and prices that are available in Celtic cross jewelry it is more convenient to view them online before shopping around at local jewelry stores. Retail jewelers will sometimes carry a small selection of Celtic cross jewelry, but you are most apt to find a greater selection online. Just type "Celtic cross jewelry " into an Internet search engine like Google or Yahoo and you will find several reliable websites that specialize in Celtic cross jewelry. The cost of Celtic cross jewelry is dependant upon many variables. In solid 14K yellow or white gold, Celtic crosses should cost about $50 to $300 depending on size. The influence of Celtic cross jewelry: No one knows for sure the exact origins of the Celtic cross, but whatever its origins, the Celtic cross has dramatically influenced the entirety of the Christian world. Celtic cross jewelry has played a large role in the faith of millions, and has helped shape the Church as we know it today. Casey Buell is an expert in the field of religious jewelry, and a contributor to the award winning religious jewelry website located at http://religiousjewelryshop.com/
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