Alexander the Great is known for solving the riddle of the Gordian knot by taking his sword and boldly cutting it in two to loosen it, thus fulfilling prophecy to be the king of Asia. Knots throughout history have represented a thorny problem, but they also represent unions, and destiny. Some knots are symbolic of a heritage, like the Celtic knot, or the symbol criss cross knot that sometimes refers to Christ. Either way, knots have always stymied and delighted people who want something unusual, and this year, you’ll get to see a whole lot more of them in 2010.

Criss Cross Bands

These are great for engagement rings and wedding bands. They offer the opportunity to use multiple metals, one for each band, and have a very modern look. Sometimes, the bands are engraved with criss crosses or looped over each other in a criss cross fashion. The look is very modern, but also very old-world, and mysterious. It’s like having a weaved knot engraved around your finger.

Criss Cross Pendants

Religious crosses have a large fan base, and the same is true of the criss cross pendants. Some people see them as a more hip version of the Christian cross, and others don’t associate any religious overtones to them. They can be studded with diamonds, and made to look more symbolic than religious. You can have one knot on your chain or multiple knots. You can have an entire criss cross necklace that twines around your neck, giving no religious allusion whatsoever, if that’s your style.

Celtic Knots

Have a little of the Irish in you? Why not celebrate your heritage with the Celtic knot? Some Celtic knots are seen as pagan symbols and if you’re into gothic, they make a great fashion statement. Celtic knots are seen as druid symbols by some and other times they are simply heralded as a part of Celtic heritage. It’s up to you to decide whether the knot is something that appeals to you or not.

Diamond Love Knots

Knots of different metals are intriguing enough, but add a diamond in the middle of the knot and you have something really special. These look great in earrings with a knot dangling and a diamond in the middle. It’s like a pair of hands embracing a diamond heart. Adding a diamond to the knot will obviously change not only the look, but also the symbolism. Instead of seeing the knot as something binding, it now appears to hide a rich secret. All one has to do is pull back the threads of the knot to find a treasure of diamonds.

Knotted Necklaces

Layered bib necklaces are very big too. You will find that they are knotted in a distinctive pattern that makes them look very lace-like, in some cases. The layered look is very big, even with simple chains or bracelets. That’s a good thing if you like knots. Even layered necklaces made of pearls can benefit from a strategic knot placed near the bottom. It adds a whole different style and look without having to go out and buy a whole new piece of jewelry.