They calm and soothe, guard and protect. Angels, it is believed, are all around us, acting as a conduit between heaven and earth … inspirational helpers from above, if you will.

The word angel is actually derived from the Greek word "angelos," which means, “messenger.” The meanings of angels, their appearance and purposes vary throughout history and the world. Artists have portrayed angels as winged creatures, usually beautiful figures that are glowing, shining and floating – in human form or as a voice. Saints as well as everyday people tell about being visited by or helped by angels.

The concept of angels is accepted in the traditional belief of Judaism, Christianity Islam and other religions. Hebrew concepts formed the background for Christian beliefs concerning heaven and angels. Some scholars say that the earliest religious representation of an angel was found at Ore, the Sumarian capital of the Hebrews. A winged figure is shown descending from heaven to pour water from an overflowing jar into the cup held by a king.

Angels appear frequently in the Bible, often in critical roles. In Genesis, an angel rescues Lot and his family from Sodom and another appears in Jacob’s dream of a ladder reaching to heaven. In the Book of Daniel, the Bible also speaks of guardian angels protecting individuals or nations. In the Gospels, an angel announced the Incarnation to the Virgin Mary and a celestial being at the empty tomb revealed the Resurrection.

Some people entrust their lives to guardian angels, or believe when they die they will be lead to heaven by the angel of death. There are claims that warrior angels exist who lead us into battle. Some churches and museums are decorated with the images of archangels, seraphim and cherubim. The great religions have tried to define and give them names, while theologians and philosophers have argued their nature and meaning.

Belief in angels has become even more widespread in recent years. A 2004 Gallup poll found that more than three-fourths of Americans – 78 percent – believe in angels, up from 72 percent in 1994.

Our pop culture supports the growing trend that we embrace angels and the role they play in our lives. The movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” a story of a an angel who helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman realize his life has meaning, was released on the big screen more than 60 years ago, but it remains one of the best-loved movies of all time. Popular television shows such as “Touched by an Angel,” and “Joan of Arcadia,” which show different ways angels and God work in our lives, enjoyed loyal followings for years. And books with angel themes continue to top best-seller lists – Amazon.com currently boasts nearly 1,500 titles on the subject.

Fascination with celestial beings has prompted aficionados around the world to amass angel-inspired images in forms such as paintings, jewelry, figurines and other keepsakes. The presence of these angel symbols, many believe, serve as a reminder that angels are always nearby and keeping us safe.

Many angel-inspired gift collections have satisfied consumer demand over the past several years, and new lines, such as Giftcraft’s Eden’s Angels, are already garnering considerable fanfare.

Judy Sampson, a buyer for Mrs. Lackovich’s in Wisconsin, says her two store locations are very successful with their current angel offerings.

“Times have changed over the last several years,” explains Sampson. “The spiritual-type gift is coming back. People are looking for things that convey faith and provide inspiration.” Susan Stubenrod, owner of Krystal Shop in St. Clairsville, Ohio, confirms the popularity of angel-themed gifts. “Angels are very well-received by customers looking for an inspirational gift for a loved one, or to bring joy to their own lives,” she says.

Eden’s Angels, which is making its debut in stores this summer, features a beautiful blend of nature and inspiration embodied in each piece to celebrate life and its most important sentiments and emotions.

The collection is the original creation of artist-designer Christine, and represents her first entry in the giftware market. A wife and mother, Christine was inspired by her son to create Eden’s Angels.

“It was a child’s innocence and the mental image of these ethereal beings among the bountiful, colorful flowers that led me to develop this collection,” explains the artist. “It is my hope that their messages touch others as much as they have touched me.”

Each angel in the collection is exact replica of Christine’s original sculpture and carries the title given by the artist. The pieces have a folk art quality, reflecting the clay sculptures and pastel wash palette of the originals.

The first release includes 12 single and multiple figurines, and a larger limited edition piece, “Hope,” portraying an angel with hands folded across her breast. “Hope” will be limited to 2007-2008 production.

Uplifting messages, representing the artist’s own thoughts, are included with each figurine. The message for “Peace” reads: From the tips of the fingers, through the wings of a dove, Peace will come as love from above.

Sampson looks forward to carrying the new collection in her stores. “Eden’s Angels is definitely a line like no other that we carry – very beautiful and classic,” she said. Stubenrod, who first caught a glimpse of Eden’s Angels in a publication announcing the line’s premiere, knew right away she had to have it for her store. “I looked at the photo and just said, ‘wow,’” she recalls. “The colors used in the collection are very warm, and the angels’ faces are so beautiful – I know our customers will be instantly drawn to them. There is nothing quite like it in the market today, so I am confident Eden’s Angels will be a hit.” With the demand for angel-inspired gift options continuing to rise, Stubenrod’s prediction will likely become a reality. As long as there are people who enjoy surrounding themselves with the beauty and tranquility of angels, collections such as Eden’s Angels and other products featuring celestial themes will maintain their popularity. For many, these heavenly messengers provide a sense of peace and protection … and a form of reassurance that is much needed in our world today.