The Father's Knot
Several years ago, in early June, a young man came into my shop and asked if we had any jewelry that was symbolic of "fatherhood" or "father and son". Father's Day was coming up, so I thought he must be looking for a gift for his own father, but he went on to explain that he was expecting to become a father the following week.
Creating a Symbol for Fatherhood
Now the expectation that there are specific meanings in Celtic knots is folklore of the Celtic Revival more than it is an established language of historically established symbols. As I explained to the young man, to his disappointment, there are some general symbolic themes to all knotwork designs and a few very specific knots, notably crosses and trinity knots that have religious significance. Some modern designers have created specific symbols like he sought. But generally the style itself is emblematic of Celtic heritage and the endless weaving ribbon can be seen as a symbol of continuum or the meandering and interweaving paths of our lives. Unfortunately for him, at that time, I had nothing that would satisfy his quest.
Father's Day Celtic Jewelry
Celebrate fatherhood with handcrafted Celtic pendants, men's rings, and kilt pins that honor family heritage.
The Design Process
But I am not one to shrink from taking artistic license. I have designed other knots to which I attribute names and meaning. This man was obviously very excited and passionate about his new identity as a father, just as being a father, and now a grandfather is very much who I am.
The Symbolism of the Father's Knot
I started sketching out a design and refining it over the next few days. The result combines three symbols: the eternity knot, the heart, and the acorn shape. The eternity knot in the center is framed above and below by masculine angular arcs. The shape suggests an abstract acorn, a traditional symbol of strength and potential, as well as a heart for a father's unending love. The single continuous strand is symbolic of the never-ending path of fatherhood as the spiritual and physical are woven together.
Make It Personal
The Father's Knot Pendant is now also available with custom engraving—add names, dates, or a special message.
Available as Father's Knot Jewelry:
- Father's Knot Pendant - Sterling silver and gold options
- Personalized Father's Knot with Engraving - Custom names or dates
- Father's Knot Ring - Bold band design for men
Looking for Custom Celtic Jewelry?
Like the Father's Knot, we can create custom designs that tell your unique family story. Work directly with our master craftsmen.
Start Custom DesignOr call us: (800) 488-6347
Tattoo Permission: Limited copyright use of the Father's Knot design as a tattoo can be obtained by emailing service@walkermetalsmiths.com with a request.
Explore More Celtic Symbolism
About the Designer
Stephen Walker is the founder and Master Craftsman at Walker Metalsmiths. With over 40 years of experience in Celtic design, Stephen creates original knotwork designs that honor both ancient traditions and modern family connections. The Father's Knot is one of several original designs that carry personal meaning while staying true to Celtic artistic principles.
Comments on this post (13)
Hi – Could I get your permission to scroll saw/carve this design to craft a special gift for my step son who has just had his first son,
Thank you, verymuch appreciated.
— Charlie Pickard
I am interested in ordering 2 father knots key chains for my niece and nephew who lost their father over Christmas. The service is Jan. 27. Would I be able to receive them by then?
— Kathleen McNeil
Hello,
I love this design and i hope to get your permission to use it for a tattoo with my Son who is becomming a dad himself.
With regards
Patrick Stoter
— Patrick Stoter
I would like to get this tattooed on me if it is ok with you?
— Pól
I lost my father and would like to use this as a tattoo for him would that be ok
— Sean furze
G’day mate.
I’m tossing up with designs for getting a tattoo with my son for his birthday latter in the year.
Something that we can get together.
Was wondering if I could get permission to possibly use your design.
Thanks mate.
— Des
I would like to get this as a tattoo in memory of my dad who passed. It would be in his memory. If I could get permission. Thank you for your time.
— Karen Lovejoy
I, like many others, would like to get this tattooed to symbolize my path to and through fatherhood. I didn’t see an answer to others. Would you provide your permission for that?
— John Cooper
would love to use this. would that be acceptable with you… my father has done so much for m
— Timothy Carver
Could I use this symbol for a tattoo? My father passed away would love to use this as remembrance.
— Jorge