Silver & 14K Gold Plate St. Brigid Cross Pendant – SP2019

Description

Silver & 14K Gold Plate St. Brigid Cross Pendant

Ireland is full of tradition. And that tradition is seen in the form of historical and most importantly religious symbols. This retro take of St. Brigid’s cross takes a traditionally Irish symbol often seen hung around households and puts it into a genius and classy piece of jewelry. 14 karat plated gold makes up the four square patches from which four silver stems come out.

Irish hallmarked in Dublin Castle.

An 18″ Sterling Silver Belcher chain with a Bolt Ring Catch is included along with a Shanore Pendant presentation box.

History and Meaning of the Saint Brigid’s Cross

St.Brigid, also known as “Mary of the Gael” was the founder of the first Irish monastery in County Kildare, Ireland. Born in Dundalk in 450 AD, St Brigid is accredited with creating the unique cross which bears her name.

The tale as we know it is as follows….

There was an old pagan Chieftain who lay delirious on his deathbed in Kildare (some believe this was her father) and his servants summoned Brigid to his beside in the hope that the saintly woman may calm his restless spirit. Brigid is said to have sat by his bed, consoling and calming him and it is here that she picked up the rushes from the floor and began weaving them into the distinctive cross pattern. Whilst she weaved, she explained the meaning of the cross to the sick Chieftain and it is thought her calming words brought peace to his soul. He was so enamored by her words that the old Chieftain requested he be baptized as a Christian just before his passing.

Since that day, and for the centuries that followed, it has been customary on the eve of her Feast Day (1st February) for the Irish people to fashion a St. Brigid’s Cross of straw or rushes and place it inside the house over the door to keep evil, fire and hunger from the homes in which it is displayed.