Large Irish Saint Brigid’s Cross Necklace in Sterling Silver

Solid Sterling Silver  A heavy Sterling Silver cross with beautiful detailing. A lovely tribute to Ireland and faith. Powerful charms of protection and compassion, St. Brigid’s Crosses are displayed to keep away evil and hunger, while inviting light and warmth during the long winter months. The original St. Brigid's cross was constructed from reeds found by the river in Kildare, Ireland, and was meant to bring protection. This depiction bears the same semblance with intricate details crafted in precious sterling silver. 1 1/4" x 1 1/4" pendant size on an 18" sterling silver chain. Double sided pendant pattern. *****History of the Cross St. Brigid, also known as “Mary of the Gael”, is an abbess and patroness of Ireland. She is furthermore the founder of the first Irish monastery in County Kildare, Ireland. Born in Dundalk in 450 AD, St Brigid is accredited with first creating the unique cross which bears her name. This cross is normally hand created from rushes however occasionally straw is also used. The distinctive St. Brigid’s Cross design, made from woven rushes, is thought to keep evil, fire and hunger from the homes, however the tale of its creation is as follows.... There was an old pagan Chieftain who lay his deathbed in Kildare 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, calming him and 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 moved 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. This rush cross, which became St. Brigid’s emblem, has been used in Irish designs throughout history, with many modern stylists using this now popular Irish symbol within the designs of Irish jewelry and Irish gifts.