Scottish Thistle Jewelry

The choice of the thistle as Scotland’s national flower might seem confusing to some. In many parts of the world, it is considered a noxious, invasive weed. Sharp spines run along the length of the stem and leaves of this eight-to-twelve-foot tall plant. Pull up a thistle, and a new plant will grow from any fallen seeds or bits of root left behind – certainly not the kind of plant that someone would think of as a national emblem! To the Scottish, however, these qualities represent courage, tenacity, and protection, making the thistle a beloved symbol of Scottish identity.

The Legend of the Scottish Thistle

Between the eighth and 13th centuries, Vikings frequently raided the north and west coasts of Scotland. According to a popular legend, one such raid came ashore near an encampment of sleeping Scotsmen. The Vikings planned to ambush the encampment and removed their shoes in order to move more quietly. However, as they crept towards the camp, a raider stepped onto a thistle. His outcry woke the Scottish, who then rallied themselves and repelled the Viking attack. 

Of course, as is customary with legends, there are variations to this tale. However, all versions have a similar theme: the thistle’s “unwelcoming” qualities protected Scotland and its people from invaders. To honor the thistle’s role in their victory, the Scottish incorporated the plant into their national emblem.

The Thistle in Scottish History

In 1470, King James III of Scotland decreed that the thistle be engraved on silver coins, making it a royal symbol. Less than a hundred years later, King James V named the thistle Scotland’s national flower. He also established The Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest (and England’s second-highest) order of knighthood. Today, you will find the Scottish thistle in the names and logos of sports clubs, businesses, and other organizations. Around the world, communities with Scottish roots use the thistle to symbolize their connection. When industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie established the Carnegie Technical School, he incorporated the thistle into the school’s logo to honor his homeland.

Thistle Symbolism

To some people, thistles have negative associations, such as pain, hostility, obstacles, and unwanted intrusions. However to the Celts – particularly the Scottish – the thistle is a positive symbol, representing tenacity, resilience, protection, and the wild beauty of Scotland. Most importantly, the thistle is a symbol of fierce pride in Scottish culture and history.  

The thistle makes a wonderful gift for someone with strong ties to Scotland, or who has a personality reminiscent of the thistle’s traits. Celtic Crystal Design Jewelry has a wide selection of thistle jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, cuff links, kilt pins, and shawl rings. Choose a simple thistle with a gold or silver finish, or find a piece that incorporates other elements of Celtic culture, such as Celtic knotwork, Claddaghs, Luckenbooths, or the thistle-and-rose (a representation of the alliance between England and Scotland). Whatever piece you choose is sure to be appreciated by anyone who holds Scotland close to their heart.