Triskel, or Triquetra, symbolizing the ancient concept of eternal renewal, adopted by Christianity as a way to explain the Trinity. Pearls, sterling and crystal by Mary Hurst Ryan, Celtic jewelry designer.
“I enjoy the blog and see how busy and involved you are in the art world. I know your Irish event will be a great success. Thank you for all the years you’ve carried my work, I appreciate you so much.” Cheers, Mary
Gold plated Celtic swirl with emerald crystals by Mary Hurst Ryan, jewelry designer.
The spiral is one of the most common symbols of the Celtic culture. This symbol stood for the radiation of ethereal energy. There are however many different meanings of the single spiral. Some of the most prominent ones are growth, or expansion of the consciousness, its perseverance and knowledge.
“I’ve sent you Celtic Torcs, an original design inspired by Celtic jewelry I saw in The National Museum in Ireland.” –Mary
Q: What is a Torc design, in Celtic art, you ask?
A: As ancient Celtic jewelry goes, the Torc is the most unusual. It’s completely different to anything worn today, and it has a long and varied history. It’s not just limited to Ireland either – torcs have been found from Celtic societies but also from the Bronze Age of the Vikings, too.
The word, torc, comes from the Latin ‘torquis’, meaning ‘to twist’, is large ring made out of precious metal, most often made of gold or bronze, but torcs of silver, copper and other metals have been found too
For the ancient Celts, jewelry was a highly important symbol of a person’s status in society. It was the clearest possible sign of wealth and high rank. The torc was reserved for the nobility of Celtic societies during various rituals.
Torcs highlight several ancient Irish stories. Morann the Arbiter allegedly had a magical torc that tightened around his neck any time he made a false judgement. One King of Tara, Dermot MacCerrbheoil, dreamt that angels took his torc from his neck and gave it to a stranger, who turned out to be St. Brendan of Clonfert. When they bumped into each other sometime later and the King recognized him as the man who was gifted the torc, he relinquished his kingdom to him.
Real ancient torcs can be found in almost every historical museum in Ireland and the UK, and throughout mainland Europe. The best examples are right here in Ireland – and we’re not just saying that. The National Museum of Ireland in Dublin has a sparkling collection along with various other magnificent Celtic jewelry pieces. It includes the Broighter Hoard and other famous artefacts such as the Ardagh Chalice, Tara Brooch and Derrynaflan Hoard.
For more info about the artifacts in the National Museum of Ireland please visit www. http://www.museum.ie
A: Mary Ryan Hurst was born and raised in County Tipperary, Ireland. Although she has lived in the United States for years, Mary returns to Ireland every year to visit her family and to get inspiration for her jewelry designs.
Mary studied dress design and incorporates her love of fashion into each piece of jewelry she creates. Her collection consists of one-of-a-kind and limited editions.
Mary’s Celtic Jewelry harks back to ancient traditions but is designed for today. Since each necklace is original, each one takes on a distinct personality and the naming process is almost mystical. According to the artist, “The names I choose for my jewelry becomes an integral part of each piece and the spirit of the name becomes a part of the wearing experience. I send a piece of my culture, my heart and my soul out with each piece of jewelry.”
Fun facts:
Mary lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and a bossy cat!
Mary was born and raise in County Tipperary, Ireland.
Necklaces, bracelets and earrings created from antique components, each one-of-a-kind and often engraved with the initials.
Ancient Celtic designs are combined with gemstones and pearls with contemporary flair.
Celtic and Couture jewelry in limited editions or one-of-a-kind designs.
The designer is available for trunk shows and special events.
Please visit https://fairweatherhouseandgallery.wpcomstaging.com/…May 16, 2014 under Mary Hurst tags: … the creative creations within the walls of…
Grace note received:
“Thank you for your lovely note, it meant a great deal to me. I love your spirit and am honored to be in your lovely gallery. Of all the owners I deal with, you are the best!” Sincerely Mary Hurst
