The Story of the Claddagh

The Story of the Claddagh

The Story of the Claddagh

Claddagh rings are regarded as some of the most beautiful, meaningful, and iconic jewelry designs in the entire world. The story behind the Claddagh design is what makes the ring the ultimate symbol of true love and friendship.The Claddagh is a design with a raised design of two hands clasping a crowned heart, usually given as a token of love or friendship. Two hands to represent friendship, the crown signifies loyalty and lasting fidelity, and the sign of the heart symbolizes eternal love. While traditionally designed in rings, you can also find the design in pendants, pins, and even Claddagh earrings.

According to legend, Richard Joyce, a young man from Claddagh, Galway, was kidnapped while sailing to the West Indies. He was sold into slavery to a Moorish goldsmith who taught Joyce the skills of a master craftsman over many years. In 1689, King William III negotiated for the return of the slaves of the West Indies, and among those returned was Joyce. With him he brought a ring that he molded out of gold flecks he collected over the years. This ring, depicting two hands holding a crowned heart, was designed and crafted to be presented to Joyce's true love, who had remained faithful to him over the years of separation. They were married and remained faithful to eachother for the rest of their lives.

Tradition states that the Claddagh ring is to be passed down from mother to daughter, symbolizing the ties between the past and present. Many emigrants who left Ireland departed with the clothes on their back and what little savings they had. The Claddagh ring became a symbol of Ireland and Irish ancestry. It is also tradition that a person must receive a claddagh ring as a gift, rather than purchasing it themself.

A Claddagh ring can be given as a sign of friendship, but it is also a popular design for Celtic engagement rings. Gold is commonly used, but silver, sterling silver, and white gold are also popular choices. The beauty of claddagh rings is that they complement other Celtic ring designs, such as knots and spirals, creating a singular look for engagement and wedding pairings.

The story of the Claddagh ring is one that continues to inspire lovers. It has become an iconic symbol of love and fidelity. Purchasing a claddagh ring or pendant from an Irish jeweler will help continue the legacy of the Royal Claddagh, and will ensure the heritage and legacy of this Irish tradition lasts.

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