The Emerald Island or Ireland as it is called has inspired several forms of Irish Tattoos and Celtic tattoos since 400 BC. These have spread to the other European countries as well as the rest of Europe. The beauty of the Irish Tattoos lie in their being representative to a host of human emotions and all with a shade of meaning not quite as depicted in real life. Among the influence which has molded the Irish tattoo into a unique art is due to the significant influence of the Celtic patterns which remains to this day as an intricate form of art. It also goes without saying that this influence has narrowed down the differences of both arts to such an extent that there is both an admixture of two. There are innumerous Irish Tattoos available both for men and women. Among the most notable ones are the Celtic knots with intricate patterns that are arranged into historical forms. These can be traced to ancient times. Then there is the Harp design, the traditional symbol of Ireland. The Word design is a name or saying in Gaelic. The others are fairies, and Claddagh, the latter having special meaning for instance strong feelings. This symbol consists of a heart surrounded by two hands and is topped off with a crown. It is believed to symbolize friendship as well as love. The crown is for loyalty, the hands for friendship and the heart for love.
There are other Irish symbols that have spread throughout the world. Among these are the shamrocks which are essentially a three leaved young clover and is also the unofficial symbol of Ireland. The ideas for Irish Tattoos can be easily had from the web site or books and magazines. Each is unique and can be custom made as per individual preferences and tastes.