The Aran Sweater, named after its place of origin on the Aran Islands off the West Coast of Ireland, was first created many generations ago. The Islanders who lived on these islands, dependent on both fishing and farming, passed down this garment from one generation to another. The sweater is now known as a symbol of Irish heritage, each stitch representing a different aspect of life on the islands, such as the Cable Stitch representing a wish for a successful day at sea and the Diamond Stitch symbolizing the small fields on the islands. The unique Tree of Life Stitch, found only on the earliest examples of Aran knitwear, is a reflection of the importance of family and a desire for unity and strength.