The Karelian plaited ribbon motif

The Karelian plaited ribbon motif is an adaptation of another braided theme, St. John’s Arms. The triple-loop braids at the edge of the jewel have been interpreted as symbols of the Holy Trinity. The middle of the jewel features St. Andrew’s cross. Small heart-shaped fittings complete the jewel. The Karelian plaited ribbon motif is a beautiful expression of how the Christian world effected the distant north.