The Claddagh Ring
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
It’s time to celebrate your Irish heritage! If you have time between pints, try giving a cheers to that special someone in your life with a Claddagh Ring!
History
The Claddagh ring has many stories of origin, but most agree that the ring’s identity began in Claddagh, a village in Galway, Ireland. In 1675, Richard Joyce, an Irish silversmith, was kidnapped and sold into slavery. While in captivity, he fashioned a ring for his lost love- from whom he had been separated. Following his release, Joyce was reunited with his lady, and gave her the ring that had long symbolized their love.
The Claddagh gained popularity in the Victorian period, and became a world-wide declaration of love and friendship.
Symbolism
The Claddagh ring is fashioned with two hands facing towards a heart, with a crown placed on top. The hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty.
Traditionally, the Claddagh ring is given as an engagement ring from one lover to another. Wearing the ring with the heart pointed down towards the wrist, symbolizes the wearer is taken, and in a relationship. Wearing the heart pointed up towards the fingertips, means that the wearer is looking for love, or single.
Claddagh rings can also be passed down as family heirlooms. One tradition is for a mother to give her daughter a Claddagh ring when she becomes of marrying age.
Today
Claddagh rings are still popular today, and there are a variety of styles and choices. A popular choice is a Claddagh ring ornamented with the birthstone of the wearer. Or, for an engagement ring, add a diamond and inscription on the band.
For more information on Claddagh ring options, call us: 269.979.2431