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A Gathering of Irish Christmas Gifts 2013

The year of the Gathering is coming to a close and from all accounts, it has been highly successful in beckoning thousands of the diaspora back home. And no doubt, many a suitcase returned from Ireland filled with iconic gifts - Aran Isle sweaters, Claddagh jewelry, Belleek pottery, Guinness glasses...many of them destined perhaps to be given to family and friends for Christmas. But, even if you weren't able to make it home this year, you can still put the best that Ireland has to offer under your Christmas tree. Herewith, a special gathering of Irish Christmas gifts so synonymous with Ireland's heritage and culture, recipients will feel an immediate link to the homeland.
 
Aran Isle hand made knits
On Inishmore and the other Aran islands, knitting was a communal activity, a pastime that brought together young girls and women who shared their knowledge and skills and passed them from one generation to the next. Patterns were never written down and any new discovery spread like wildfire in the community. It was said that at Sunday Mass, the women were more interested in staring at the stitches of knitted stockings with patterned tops than they were in saying their prayers. The idea was to try and duplicate a new stitch or pattern. When the leap was made from stockings  to larger garments with decoration, the Aran sweater was born. Shown, an example of how today's Aran Isle knitters are combining traditional skills with contemporary style. Made of natural white merino wool, this fashionable cardigan features an unusual flap collar fastened with a single wood button.

Not to be overlooked, however, is the always popular crewneck jumper as they call them in Ireland and every man with even just a drop of Irish blood in his veins deserves to own at least one - especially when it's this good looking!  

 
Guinness
It's said that a pint of Guinness is “first drunk with the eyes” and for the most visual pleasure, no ordinary beer mug will do. The 20-ounce imperial pint tulip shaped glass is designed specifically to enhance the drink experience - the lip helps maintain the thick, creamy head and the curved shape allows the distinctly Irish aromas and flavors to  blend perfectly.  Shown, a set of two that would make the perfect host or hostess gift if you're bringing Guinness to a holiday party! 

Nowadays, the Guinness logo has become so emblematic of Ireland, it can be found on a wide variety of items that would make great gifts at anytime of year, from playing cards and posters to T-shirts & Jerseys. Shown, a whimsical bit of wall art for yer man's Irish pub display. It's always a lovely day for a Guinness whether it's on your back, your wall or in your hand. 


The Claddagh
 According to Irish folk lore, Richard Joyce was a crew member on a fishing boat from the village of Claddagh captured by pirates. He was sold to a wealthy Algerian goldsmith who taught him the trade and became so skilled, he designed a ring of special significance: the hands were for friendship, the crown was for loyalty, and the heart was for love. When he was able return to Ireland he gave the ring to his sweetheart who had waited for him. Before long, what became known as Claddagh rings were being worn  by women on the west coast and off-shore islands of Galway. Often representing the sole major investment of a fishing family, they were handed down from mother to daughter. Over the years, the design became extremely popular as a betrothal or wedding ring and took on even more significance. Worn on the right hand with the heart pointing out means that the heart is uncommitted. Worn on the same hand with the heart pointing in means that the heart is taken. Worn on the left hand with the heart pointing in means "Let Love and Friendship reign forever, never to be separated."But one word of caution: it is said to be bad luck for a person to purchase a Claddagh ring for themselves. It must be given or received as a gift.


Belleek - one of the most renowned potteries in the world
In 1849 John Caldwell Bloomfield inherited the Castlecaldwell estate, which encompassed the village of Belleek, from his father. Mindful of the plight of his tenants in the aftermath of the potato famine he sought to provide some form of worthwhile employment. An amateur mineralogist, he ordered a geological survey of his land. To his delight it revealed the necessary raw materials to make pottery - feldspar, kaolin, flint, clay and shale. From that humble beginning evolved what was to become the Belleek trademark - fine Parian china characterised by its delicacy and slightly iridescent surface. Today, fans are spoilt for choice with literally hundreds of pieces on offer. However, that same wide array makes it easy to find the perfect gift for the Belleek collector on your list! 

No gathering of Irish made products would be be complete without a mention of Jameson whiskey, Royal Tara, Mullingar Pewter and Ogham - the ancient language of the Celts. For such a small country, Ireland consistently punches above its weight when it comes to creativity and quality. This Christmas season. you won't go wrong with a gift from Ireland, guaranteed to garner your own gathering of thanks and appreciation.







Photo Credit: Irish Santa from the article An Irish Christmas. Then and Now