ShareThisFrom Shamrock, Texas, to Dublin, Ohio, people are gearing up to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.About one third of all revelers will make a special dinner at home (I'll go out on a limb and guess corned beef and cabbage), while another third will go to a party at their favorite bar or restaurant and drink (I'll go out on another limb and guess green beer).That's fine and well, but it did get me to thinking: is there any more to St. Patrick's Day?I looked around at some classic Irish imports and loved their tradition and lore. So here's a little look at some of the great things The Emerald Isle has given us: Crystal ClearIf you're looking to class things up with a beautiful bowl, some gorgeous goblets, or a pair of shimmering candlesticks, consider Waterford Crystal. The company was established in 1783 by two brothers who shared a vision to "create the finest quality crystal for drinking vessels and objects of beauty for the home." Over two hundred years later, Waterford Crystal still rolls out beautiful, classic pieces.Cozy Cover-upsIrish 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 also gave them their customary creamy color. Today's Irish sweaters keep with the original style, but are often made on looms (as opposed to by hand) and come in many colors.Let Love and Friendship ReignGiven 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). It's a favorite of mine because of all the meaning it can convey.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!If you're not in the market for anything Irish, at least remember this on St. Patrick's Day -- when washing down your corned beef and cabbage with a nice green beer, say, "Slainte" to toast your friend's health, not "Cheers."(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. E-mail askhelen(at)shopzilla.com.)(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.scrippsnews.com)
Check out classy Irish imports for St. Patrick's Day
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