Claddagh Rings – Past and Present

The enduring plea of traditional Irish Claddagh rings is a testament to the idealistic plus beguiling tale of the Claddagh. If you’ve never heard the idealistic story of the Claddagh, you determination not appreciate the concealed sense in these well-liked rings. We desire to inform you every one concerning the Claddagh tale, which has turn out to be an essential fraction of the Irish educational structure.

The Claddagh Story

Richard Joyce was an Irish fisherman, raised in Galway, Ireland, and he sailed all over the world to make a living. While working in the West Indies, the ship he was on was hijacked, and he was sold into slavery. He was forced to live with his new master, a goldsmith, in Algiers, and work in his shop. Joyce left behind the woman he loved, back in Galway, and he longed to return to her some day.

Claddagh Wedding Rings

Throughout his ordeal, he never forgot the woman he loved, and his undying faithfulness and loyalty to her inspired him to craft a special ring that would represent his love for her. The tiny hands were meant to show the way she held his heart, and the tiny crown symbolized the nobility of true love and loyalty. Fourteen years later, Joyce returned to his true love, and the Claddagh ring he had made for her became her engagement ring.

The Claddagh Ring Today

The Claddagh ring can be worn in a variety of ways, to show the world whether or not you are married, dating, or single! The ring is worn with the heart facing outwards, when you are romantically available, and turned towards you, when you are not! This fun aspect of wearing a traditional Irish Claddagh ring adds a bit more hidden meaning and interest, as many people will glance at your Claddagh ring, to see how you choose to wear it!

Once you own one of these rings, be sure to wear it the correct way. Doing otherwise is considered a sign of disrespect for the long-held tradition. It also further diminishes the true meaning behind these wonderful rings for which it is intended. This is because the way a Claddagh ring is worn carries deep significance. It can be used to signify a persons availability for a relationship. When the ring is worn on the left hand with the heart turned inward, it shows the person is married and unavailable. When the ring is worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward, however, it shows that the ring wearer is unattached. If the heart is turned inward, it shows the person is already attached and in a relationship.

For jewelry lovers looking for jewelry that conveys deep significance, many will find that of the engagement and wedding rings available in the market today lack in this respect. It is important to learn how a Claddagh ring should be worn so the traditions behind these rings are honored.

Even though the use of Claddagh rings are found in Irish weddings, Celtic rings make excellent gifts among close friends as well. When a Claddagh ring is given to a friend, it is usually accompanied with the saying Let love and friendship reign.

Please also check out my other guide on Antique Rings and White Gold Rings