While Ogham script originated in Ireland, it's use has become popular around the world. It's use dates back to the 4th century AD and it is the earliest form of the written Irish language.
It was carved into wood or stone and hundreds of examples have survived down through the centuries. This ancient script is a concise alphabet made up of one single horizontal line with a series of vertical and diagonal lines for different letters. The lines represent different letters from old Irish.
Inspired by Dunloe Ogham Stones, Co.Kerry
Approximately four hundred examples of Ogham stones can still be found across Ireland and West Wales today. Research suggests the majority of these stones were used to inscribe names for boundary markers. Later examples of Ogham writing have also been found in the famous manuscript, the Book of Kells.
Today Ogham is used across a variety of different artforms from greeting cards and tattoos to paintings to jewelry. You can explore our collection of handcrafted Ogham fine jewelry here.
To get started Ogham, we have written a quick guide on the basics of translating a name or word to Ogham. Here are the basic points you need to know:
Ogham is made up of a series of marks running along a central vertical line.
- It is written and read from bottom to the top of this central axis
- An Ogham letter is made of one or more full or half lines. These strokes run horizontally or diagonally across the central axis
- Many letters from the modern alphabet did not exist when Ogham was in use. In this case, you have the option of translating to the Irish language first. This often helps. Alternatively, you could opt to use the closest phonetic letter.
- Each line and character should be evenly spaced out (Add a longer space between each letter)
- Ensure you position your lines on the correct side and diagonal lines are at the correct angle
When you're ready, follow this link to translate your word or name to Ogham letters using our handy translator. If you prefer a more hands on approach, here is our Guide to the Ogham Alphabet
If you like the result, you can always have work with us to create some custom jewelry.