Unicorn Jewelry

For centuries, unicorns have been associated with magic, power, rarity, and virtue. Depictions of unicorns appear in artwork dating to the Mesopotamian era, and accounts of unicorns can be found in ancient records from Greece and China. In medieval Europe, the unicorn was esteemed by Christian and pagan cultures alike. 

Today, the unicorn still captures our hearts and imagination. Many people find themselves drawn to this mystical animal, and the term “unicorn” is used to describe something extremely rare.

The Unicorn in Historical Accounts

Accounts of unicorns can be found in Greek writings as early as 400 BCE. Merchants traveling to the Far East would return with tales of one-horned beasts seen during their travels. To the ancient Greeks, the Far East was a land of mystical wonders, so would naturally have magical animals roaming the land. 

The Far East was not the only source of unicorn sightings – in Northern Europe, Vikings and other seafarers spoke of “sea-unicorns,” whose horns were harvested, then traded to merchants or gifted to nobility. Queen Elizabeth, I received one from a British explorer upon his return from an Arctic expedition, and the Danish Throne was said to be made of unicorn horns. 

The Unicorn is the National Animal of Scotland

Scotland is famous for its picturesque landscape, fantastical legends, and magical creatures. Therefore, it should be no surprise that the Scottish people felt a particular connection to the unicorn, a creature of beauty, power, and magic. The unicorn was also believed to be the natural enemy of the lion, the national animal of England. These characteristics led to the unicorn becoming Scotland’s national animal.  

During the 12th century, William I incorporated two unicorns into his coat of arms. When Scotland united with England in 1707, the British royal coat of arms was altered to include a lion and a unicorn and given two variations: the English version places the lion in the dominant position, while the Scottish version places the unicorn in the position of prominence. Today, unicorn heraldry can be seen in communities throughout the country. 

Unicorn Symbolism

The unicorn symbolizes many things, including virtue, strength, and healing. Medieval Christians believed that the unicorn was a symbol of purity and innocence. Furthermore, legend states that the unicorn could only be tamed by a virgin, strengthening the unicorn’s association with virtue. The Celtic people – both Christian and non-Christian – associated the unicorn with pride, boldness, and strength. 

The unicorn’s horn was believed to have healing properties, especially for stomach troubles and poison. Apothecaries would use powdered unicorn horn to make medicines, and nobility would drink from cups of unicorn horn to protect themselves from poison. 

At Celtic Crystal Design Jewelry, our unicorn jewelry is worked in silver, a metal associated with purity and power, just like the unicorn. For added significance, choose a piece with enamel or semi-precious stones. Whether you are drawn to unicorns for their magic, their purity, or their connection to Scotland, our pieces are sure to capture your heart.