Celtic Jewelry: The Meaning of the Tara Brooch

First discovered in Bettystown, County Meath in 1850, the Tara Brooch, which dates back to around 700AD is an elaborate and impressive example of classic Bronze Age Craftmanship, and which today is proudly displayed in the national museum of Ireland in Dublin.

Composed mostly of silver and gilt, and embellished with delicate interlacing patterns, the Tara Brooch is made into many different pieces before its assembled into the detailed Celtic Brooch design that we are accustomed too. In fact it has been said that when it was first discovered, all but one panel was missing!
The Tara Brooch takes its name from the Hill of Tara, which is traditionally seen as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, even though the Tara Brooch has no connection with either. However, the legend of the story goes that after it was sold by the then finders to a dealer, and then on to the Dublin Jeweler and a reviver of Celtic Jewelry, George Waterhouse, and it was he who renamed it the “Tara Brooch” to make it more charming.
Worn by both men and women due to its practical propose in fastening caps, cloaks and other clothing, today the Tara Brooch still remains a popular piece of Celtic Jewelry to give as Irish gifts and is one of Ireland’s most widely recognized Celtic Brooches.