St. Patrick's Day Inspired Jewelry

Coming up very soon is St. Patrick’s Day! Most people know that it’s imperative to wear green or you will be pinched, but do you know the meaning and culture behind it? THE HISTORY St. Patrick’s Day is a global celebration around March 17th to honor Christian Irish culture. This day was meant to remember St. Patrick, who was one of Ireland’s patron saints. In the 5th century, he ministered Christianity in Ireland. For multiple centuries, this day was a religious day of feast which involved going to church in the morning and feasting in the afternoon. There were no parades or green colored foods seen today in America. This holiday and its traditions were brought to the United States by Irish immigrants, and the day has evolved into the party fueled tradition it is known as today. This transition occured because alcohol and food restrictions were temporarily removed for this day when it was originally celebrated, but over time the celebration became a drinking celebration for those who did not restrict themselved from drinking on a regular basis and were not born of this culture. JEWELRY One of the best ways to wear green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day is emerald jewelry! It’s subtle and it’s the perfect touch to any outfit on or after St. Patrick’s Day. The green gem that most people are familiar with is the emerald stone which comes from the beryl family of minerals and represents the birthstone for May. They are usually a vibrant green color and with a Mohs Hardness of 7.5 to 8. Emeralds have a royal history ranging from Egyptian pharaohs to Inca emperors. In addition to its rich history it is a beautiful gem that can be worn for any occasion. Here at Malak jewelers, we have a wide array of jewelry with an Irish touch like being in the shape of a clover for example the ring and earrings shown above. This style also can be found in store in sapphire and ruby as well! CLADDAGH SYMBOL Another amazing jewelry choice would be anything with yellow gold. For example, a Claddagh ring is a super traditional Irish ring. The heart in the middle stands for love and the crown represents loyalty. Lastly, the two hands stand for friendship. The design of this ring and it’s customs were developed in Claddagh, County Galway and are popular still today. You can shop Claddagh Rings in our Estate Collection in-store. Modern versions of the ring below include a silver band with a green gemstone as the heart as well as a multi gem trim of the heart. When you are single, this ring is to be worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward. When in a relationship, the ring is to be worn on the right hand with the heart turned in. When engaged, this ring is worn on the left hand with the heart on the ring facing away from the body. St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday with a rich history that dates back centuries. Even if you are not Irish, wearing green is a great way to be a part of this celebration. Come by Malak Jewelers in the Arboretum Shopping Center to see our variety of jewelry with green gems. We have everything from earrings, to necklaces, to rings. And if you want personalized multi-gem jewelry as a way to honor your family, our gem experts will design it just the way you like!