Knot designs are actually depicted throughout the world. Some found in eastern Europe may be as old as 20,000 years. In Western culture, there is a long and venerable tradition of artists that have been inspired to use the knot work design. We are most familiar with knots left by the "Celts," a name given by the Romans to a groups of independent tribes on the throughout current day Europe.

Some Celts were sophisticated metal and stone artisans who used the knot work as a form of sacred expression. A few of these were later preserved by the highly embellished, illuminated manuscripts, the most famous being the Book of Kells which somehow survived the Vikings. It was created in the 9th century at a monastery off the Scottish coast, and depicts wonderfully imaginative images of humans and animals embellished with knot work motifs, linking medieval Christianity with ancient Druidic culture.

Celtic design was also particularly popular in the Renaissance. Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael studied and depicted knots in their work. In modern times, some of Picasso's early art is highly influenced by knot work. And there has always been a group of metal and visual artists that have kept the Celtic fires burning by using the knot work patterns in jewelry and other design.

I have seen knots in my travels through the Islamic world, and also in the Far East where I spent part of my childhood. When I trekked through the Himalayas in the spring 02, I noticed how common the "eternal knot" is in Buddhist iconography. It expresses the endless cycles of existence. Initially, however, my earliest impressions of these knots were from my childhood in England, where I grew up in a small village. There's a magic about them which is hard to clearly articulate. On the moors, surrounded by winding stone walls and ancient Neolithic bridges, the knot work carved in stone is full of mystery that transcends time.

Some information about the meaning of these knots has been passed down through ancient manuscripts, oral history and archeological conjecture. For example, the small triangular design on many of my pieces is said to represent the three stages of the feminine: the maiden, mother and crone. I think it illustrates any aspect of the trinity, the One becoming Three. Circular knots concern relationships, while square knots have to do with structure and foundations. However, no one can say for absolute certainty what the knots mean because they point to something more profound than what language can express.

Celtic wedding rings are beautifully symbolic, and are completely appropriate to wear whether one has Celtic roots or not. After all, it is a weave of particular experiences that makes us unique. The knot work patterns are a physical representation of the weaving together of two lives into one mysterious circle. The circle itself is symbolic of sound relationships, and putting on a ring seals a commitment.

Some patterns on rings are simple, harmonious flows, while others are more complicated, suggesting creative elements, or peaks and valleys. The ring that you are attracted to often hints to something of the nature of your relationship.

It's practically impossible to find Celtic rings at local jewelry stores, and having them custom made can be cost prohibitive. The best place to search may be on the internet.

When buying a Celtic wedding ring on line, a few factors should be considered. First, the ring should be comfort fit, since you'll be wearing it all the time. Second, the company should offer a complete money back guarantee, and they should have some kind of track record that assures a timely delivery. It's not uncommon for a ring to be held up US Customs, for example. Third, the company should have some kind of brick and mortar store that you can visit, if necessary; and a solid record in customer service in case you wish to ask questions or order over the phone.

Finally, the rings should be beautiful, unique, and resonate with your own profound, sacred connection and commitment to your beloved.