7 Lucky Charms that Make Perfect Irish Wedding Gifts

Giving Irish wedding gifts, as with so many wedding customs in Ireland, is steeped in magical folklore and old-fashioned Irish superstition.

Deciding what gift to give your friends on their big day will be easier once you learn about a few of Ireland's traditional wedding gifts and what they signify.

The Bell
Whether the bell be made of pewter, brass, porcelain, or crystal, it will ward off the evil spirits that may be lurking to trip up the newlyweds.

Also known as a "make-up bell" or "wedding bell", it helps the Bride and Groom stay ever-mindful of their wedding vows and the love they shared on their wedding day. So whenever they are upset with each other one of them can ring the bell instead of walking away.

The Magic Hanky
There is a wonderful Irish wedding custom for the bride to carry a "magic" hanky on her wedding day.

After the nuptials, she keeps it in a special place saves it for her firstborn's christening, to dry her baby's face. A variation of this Irish wedding tradition is for the hanky to be converted into a christening bonnet, then converted back into a hanky for that child's wedding day.

The Wedding Coin
Another old Irish wedding tradition is for the Groom to give his Bride a coin after they exchange rings, as a symbol of prosperity. This custom originated back when the Groom would pay money to the Bride's family to bring them good fortune and joy.

A modern interpretation of this custom is for the Bride and Groom to exchange coins. They say if the coins touch each other during the exchange, the Bride and Groom will be blessed with many children.

The Lucky Horseshoe
The horseshoe has always been associated with good luck in Irish folklore. Brides traditionally carry a horseshoe with them on their wedding day for good luck.

After they set up their home together, the horseshoe is hung over their front door to continue to ward off evil and despair. Just remember, if you give the couple a horseshoe, give it to them with the "U" facing up - this way it stops the luck from draining out!

Other good luck charms that make great Irish wedding gifts include:

• Salt and Pepper Shakers
  So their home will never be without food.
• Wine Glasses
  So they will always have plenty to drink.
• Candlestick Holders
  So their home will always have light.

Giving gifts is an important part of the culture of hospitality in Ireland. So if you have been invited to an Irish wedding, it's important to choose your wedding gifts wisely. Hopefully some of these traditional Irish wedding gifts have given you some ideas.

Deborah Felker is the editor of Fantasy-Ireland.com, featuring in-depth articles about the meaning of Irish and Celtic symbols and many articles to help plan Irish and Celtic weddings

Amethyst: History and Symbols

Amethyst is popularly regarded as a gemstone. Several names have been attributed to it due to its characteristics and variety in colors. The pinkish lavender shade is called ?Rose de France.? It is the least sought after variety compared to the intense violet shade called ?Siberian? which is the most-sought after shade of all. The latter shade is usually found not just in Siberia but also in the African region of Zambia and Uruguay. Ametrine on the other hand, is a gem of Bolivia which exhibits alternating bands of citrine orange and purple. Oriental amethyst is also the name of the purple corundum as well as fine samples of amethystine quartz which does not necessarily come from the Eastern regions of the globe.

Amethyst in History and its Symbolisms

Amethyst is generally known as the birthstone of February celebrators which indirectly links it to the horoscope calendar of Pisces, Aries, Sagittarius and Aquarius. High ranking officials of the Roman Catholic sect wear rings with amethyst stones as symbolism of their offices.

From the Greek word amethystos, it literally means not drunken. This name was an offshoot of its use in ancient times as an antidote for drunkenness. This also gave rise to the practice then of carving wine goblets from amethyst. According to Greek mythology, a maiden by the name of Amethystos was being pursued by the drunken Dionysus. Amethystos prayed to the gods for protection against Dionysus? unwanted affection. Artemis, the goddess heard her prayer so she transformed the maiden into a white stone. When Dionysus realized what happened to her, he poured wine over the stone as an act of offering. This act transformed the white stone to a crystal purple.

Another mythical story about the origin of amethyst involved the god Dionysus. He was angered by an insult coming from a mere mortal. He swore that the next mortal he will come across will die through the fierce tigers he has created to carry out his revenge. An unsuspecting maiden named Amethyst happened to be on her way to make an offering to the goddess Diana. Knowing what was bound to the happen to the poor mortal, the goddess changed Amethyst to a crystalline quartz to prevent her from being ravaged by the brutal tigers. The blinded Dionysus wept after knowing what happened to the mortal and the tears trickled to the crystals turning it to a purple color.

Eric Hartwell oversees "The World's Best Homepage" intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions at the worlds best homepage and visit his associated site for unique jewelry

Amethyst - Historical and Modern

Amethyst is a popular gemstone. It has a number of characteristics and colors which have endeared people to its worth and enables it to be a popular choice for all types of jewelry. The pinkish lavender shade is called ?Rose de France.? It is less sought after than the intense violet shade called ?Siberian? which is the most-sought after shade of all. The latter shade is found in Siberia, Zambia and Uruguay. Ametrine comes from Bolivia which shows alternating bands of citrine orange and purple. Oriental amethyst is also the name of the purple corundum as well as fine samples of amethystine quartz which does not necessarily come from the Eastern regions of the globe.

During the 20th century, its purple color was attributed to manganese. However, the color or shades does not remain consistent and this led some to believe that the change is due to an organic content. Some studies showed that sulfur could be found in amethyst while some suggests the presence of ferric thiocyanate. When the amethyst is exposed to heat, the color changes to yellow which is why they are then referred to as burnt amethyst.

On its chemical composition, amethyst is produced by irregular superimposition of quartz. This characteristic is generally attributed to mechanical stresses which in turn, creates a very fragile make-up. All quartz that has this composition or structure is now generally labeled as amethyst.

Historically amethyst has been of great use in attempting to guard against drunken behavior and for fighting addiction. Additionally it has been used for diverse reasons such as in hearing disorders, sleep disorders, pain and even mental disorders. It folklore is to be believed it can also help in dreams, peacefulness, love, spiritual wellbeing, strength and happiness.

Eric Hartwell oversees "The World's Best Homepage" intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions at the worlds best homepage and visit his associated site for unique jewelry.

Diamond Cross Pendants - A Symbol of Faith

Diamond cross pendants have become a marvelous way for people of the Christian faith to show their faith as well as wear an attractive and distinctive piece of diamond jewelry. There are quite a few styles and types of pendants and chains to choose from when one is looking for a new pendant , and here are a few things you may want to keep in mind when you?re out shopping.

Diamond cross pendants come in many styles. Some of the more popular ones right now would be the curved pendants. These bring a simple elegance and classy style to your piece of biblical faith wear, and lend an almost fluid sense to the cross itself. Other popular styles include is a chunky cross pendant. These are obviously bulkier and heavier, and quite more substantial. These styles are less traditional and more distinctive, but also serve as a great way to get a conversation started and share your faith. Other hot diamond cross pendants right now might include dual finish silver cross pendants, usually presented with diamonds either in the center or the corners of the cross itself. These have become very popular and are relatively inexpensive as well.

Diamond cross pendants can be a very distinctive piece of jewelry and unless the diamonds themselves are huge, not very expensive to boot! Though the size of the diamonds ion your diamond cross pendants may not seem worthy of consideration when it comes to things such as the 4 C?s, there are still a few times you?ll want to bear in mind when you?re shopping for them. The clarity and quality of the stones themselves is of concern as is the setting in which the diamonds are actually seated. Does it seem secure? Are any diamonds in jeopardy of falling out. Look at them carefully, for even though this may not be the most expensive diamond purchase you?ll ever make, you still don?t want it disintegrating on you!

When shopping for diamond cross pendants, or for any other type of diamond jewelry, bear in mind you have many choices. You can patronize offline ,traditional jewelry stores, particularly if you really want to get a feel for the piece. For me, however, if I?m looking for a diamond cross pendant I?m going to do it online. The selection and prices are going to be so much more favorable online, and since there are so many styles of this particular kind of jewelry, it could take far too long to search out this many choices offline. I might lose faith! (Joke!)

However you decide to acquire your diamond cross pendants, you?ll soon find yourself wearing an enduring and evocative symbol of your faith, bound to touch many lives!

Keith Thompson is fascinated by the diamond trade, and sits up nights working on his site http://www.diamondstoday.info If you'd like a wealth of information on diamond cross pendants come visit today!

Cross Pendants Aren't Simply Two Intersecting Arms

Regardless of whether you are a religious soul or have become interested in the alluring arrangement of its shape, crosses serve as a deep sign of faith and have also become a popular fashion statement. Whether bejeweled with precious stones, 24-karat gold, or sparkling sterling silver, a wealth of crosses are available on the market that allow individuals to express themselves in any way, shape, form, or weight they desire.

Brief History of the Cross

The geometric sign that is created when two lines or bars intersect with one another at a 90-degree angle is called a cross. It is this shape that serves as one of the most ancient of all symbols connected to humans. While the icon is often associated with a variety of religions (with great emphasis towards Christianity), the cross is not always meant to denote faith. Sometimes, a cross represents the world, the four elements, unions, and crossroads. Today, the symbol has become a popular piece of ornamentation with a vast array of sterling silver cross pendants and other selections that you can find online.

Different Types of Crosses

While the Christian variation is one of the most known examples of the symbol, you probably didn?t know that the first two centuries of Christianity did not utilize the cross, which was heavily connected to the pain and suffering felt during a crucifixion. Below you will encounter additional instances that utilize the cross design that are rather favorable in today's fashion and religious world:

Greek Cross: With a history that dates back to the 4th century, the Greek cross displays arms of equal length (like the symbol of the International Red Cross). The horizontal and vertical bars of equal length on the Greek cross pendant symbolize the intersection of the divine with humanity.

Maltese Cross: When the arms of a Greek cross taper into the center, this selection is referred to as the Maltese Cross. The outer ends of the cross may also display forked characteristics. This cross is often associated with the orders of knights since the Crusades.

Latin Cross: This particular cross exhibits a longer descending arm than other crosses and most often signifies Christ's crucifixion. Most sterling silver cross pendants that you see utilize this form of cross. The crucifix is a Latin cross with the body of Christ and is traditionally associated with Roman Catholicism, but by no means exclusively so.

Celtic Cross: This traditional-style crucifix melds style, religion, and culture into one significant symbol that possesses a circle that encloses the intersection of the upright and crossbar. The origins of the Celtic cross are in dispute?some say it?s a pagan cross symbolizing sun worship; others say that St. Patrick created it.

Mariner's Cross: Displaying the shape of an anchor, this stylized cross is often referred to as the St. Clement's Cross, which symbolizes the way this particular individual became a martyr.

In the world of jewelry, the above crosses and many more have all found their place within the selection of sterling silver necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and pendants offered at most commercial outlets and online stores.

Varied Cross Styles

No matter what the intended purpose of wearing a cross, there is a wide range of styles marketed to the public. While some prefer the simplicity of a plain silver cross pendant, others choose to adorn their necks with crosses decorated with precious gemstones, such as diamonds and rubies. Either approach has been known to satisfy both the individual who views the cross as a symbol of faith and the other who may wear their piece to display beauty and style.

You are cordially invited to visit our online sterling silver jewelry store. We carry a lovely selection of sterling silver cross pendants that make excellent gifts.

Pendants - Time To Reveal Who You Are

A pendant may appear as a very simple object, but with the power of human faith and the values that we tend to attach with it or any object, it can be the essence of an entire existence. While it can be just a piece of jewel for some, for others, it can be the cosmos of all the values and faith that they hold dear.

Can a pendant attain such a role in our lives, that we reflect what we are, who we are, what do we believe in through just a piece of jewellery? Can calling it - just a piece of jewellery - sound blasphemous to some? We wear 'The Cross' or 'The Lord' as something to keep God near our hearts. This shows more than the love for the Almighty.

Not just love for God, they are worn even to show love for people in our lives. Some wear them to remind them of their lovers or spouses, some wear for parents or it can be anyone, related to you in anyway. It reflects the strong bond of love that you hang around your neck and keep close to your heart.

There are people, usually this is seen more in youngsters, who wear their identity on their chest. It can be something that they identify themselves with or something that occupies a major role in their life. For example, you can wear a guitar or any musical instrument, if you are a die hard rock music (or any kind of music) fan.

And we simply can not forget pendants as jewellery. They are an integral part of neck jewellery. However pendants can be worn in other kinds of jewellery as well like tiara and belts or waist bands. Faceted or non faceted stones can be great as pendants. So can be pearls and diamonds. When worn as jewellery can add instant glow and beauty to your face and make you look prettier if chosen carefully.

Paul Shane cherishes a hobby of studying and collecting jewellery, to dig out the making and story behind them, especially the rare or exquisite ones, also Pearl Pendants being used for manufacturing the jewellery. He also loves studying consumer behaviour related to jewellery selecting and buying. At present he is associated with a leading group called E-Beads Limited.

Pendant Lighting Layout - How To

 

Pendant lighting has gained a great deal of popularity for use in kitchens over the last few years. A common place to install them is over an island or peninsula. One of the most frequent questions I see is how high do I hang them and how do I space them out? Both questions can be answered in several ways and as with any home design aspect there is no absolute or right answer. There is however some guidelines to use that can help you make the right decision.

One consideration on the height is with the fixture you choose. If a fixture has an open bottom and it is installed to high, it can become very annoying looking up into the light bulb all the time. By the same token, a fixture that is designed so that the top is not made to be viewed, if installed too low, can be very unappealing. There is an average height you can use as a guide, about 68" - 72" off the floor to the very bottom of the fixture. This puts the fixture at about eye level for the average person. The reason there is no correct answer is in a house where everyone is 6' 4" and taller this height would most likely be too low.

Over a dining room table this same rule can be applied. A little tip or word to the wise. If your fixture is going to be installed before there is actually a table under it put something there in its place. It could be a large box, bench, folding table or a chair. It will save someone a trip to the hospital for stitches after walking into the fixture or a broken fixture.

Spacing the pendants when there is more than one is a matter of a little mathematics. The most common mistake is to just split the space into even sections but that is not entirely correct and I'll explain why. Let's say your island is 60" long and you have two pendants. A common thought would be to split the space into three sections that are even. This would give you each fixture 20" off the ends and 20" between them. A better choice would be 15" off each end and 30" between them. Why is that you ask? Well for one thing you'll see it is more visually appealing. The other reason is the light spread on most pendants is in the shape of a circle. If you can imagine the actual light that falls on the counter area picture two circles of light. To best illuminate the counter we want the edge of the circle to hit the edge of the counter. The other two edges should meet or overlap in the middle.

If you are not sure what it is I am describing take a look at the link below and view the diagrams along with the explanation.

For more info on How to layout Pendant Lighting visit: http://www.forteelectric.com/PendantLayout.html Paul Forte is a licensed electrical contractor with over 25 years of experience in residential lighting. If you would like some lighting ideas for your project contact Paul or visit his website http://forteelectric.com