Wee bit of Irish tradition stays strong

By Helen Malani, Special to the Rocky

Published March 12, 2008 at 3:33 p.m.

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From Shamrock, Texas, to Dublin, Ohio, people are gearing up to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.

I looked around at some classic Irish imports and loved their tradition and lore. Here's a little look at some of the great things The Emerald Isle has given us:

* If you're looking to class things up with a beautiful bowl, gorgeous goblets or shimmering candlesticks, consider Waterford Crystal. Established in 1783 by two brothers, Waterford still rolls out beautiful, classic pieces.

* Irish fisherman's sweaters are inspired by traditional sweaters of the Aran Islands off the West Coast of Ireland and are distinguishable by their complex stitch patterns. Originally, the sweaters were knitted by hand and included the wool's natural oils, which made the sweaters water-resistant and gave them their customary creamy color. Today's Irish sweaters keep with the original style, but often are made on looms (as opposed to by hand) and come in many colors.

* Given as a token of friendship or to signify marriage, the Claddagh ring was first produced in the 17th century, but the design dates further back. The Claddagh is centered by a heart (representing love), surrounded by two clasped hands (for friendship), and is topped off by a crown (signifying loyalty).

If you're looking for love, the ring goes on your right hand, heart facing out to show you're available. If you're taken, the ring stays on your right hand, heart facing in; and if you're engaged or married, the ring moves to the left hand, heart facing in. A word to the wise - if someone gives you a ring and their intentions aren't clear, let them put the ring on you!

Helen Malani is the chief shopping expert for Shopzilla.com, an E.W. Scripps company and the largest comparison-shopping search engine on the Web.

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