The History of the Claddagh Ring

The first appearance of the Claddagh ring is a bit foggy, but it is thought that it originated around the Claddagh fishing villiage in County Galway, Ireland, around the 16th century. The Claddagh design has gained widespread popularity around the world and now appears in multiple forms (mainly in jewelry). Several legends surround the birth of the Claddagh ring.

Symbolism of the Claddagh Ring

The Claddagh ring has rich symbolism associated with it. The ring is made up of a heart held by two hands with a crown atop the heart. The meaning of such a symbol is three-fold: the heart symbolizes love, the hands symbolizes friendship and the crown loyalty. The traditional meaning behind the ring is "let love and freedom reign".

Richard Joyce

One of the most popular origin stories of the Claddagh ring is centered around a man named Richard Joyce. It's said that Joyce was captured by Algerian pirates and sold to the Moors as a slave. While he was a slave, Richard worked under a goldsmith whom taught him the trade. Though he was well-treated and was even offered the hand of his master's daughter, he returned to his native Ireland once released from slavery at the order of King William III. He brought his craft with him, and it's said that the original Claddagh rings were designed by him.

The Story of Margaret Joyce

The second common story behind the Claddagh ring concerns Margaret Joyce and the tribes of Galloway. Galway in the 16th century, like many parts of Ireland, was separated into tribes. Margaret Joyce belonged to one of the more influential clans. Margaret was said to have married a wealthy Spanish merchant, who upon his death left her with considerable wealth. After his death, she married the mayor of Galway and used her inheritance to improve the city. It's said that an eagle dropped the first Claddagh ring in her lap as a reward for her good deeds.

The Claddagh and Royalty

The Claddagh ring was first favored by nobility when Queen Victoria of England chose to wear it. The Claddagh ring has since been worn by King Edward VII, Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco.

How to Wear a Claddagh Ring Properly

Traditionally, when the Claddagh is worn and the crown is pointing towards the wrist, the owner is single and open to love interests. If the crown is worn towards the fingertips, the wearer is engaged or romantically involved. If worn on the left hand with the crown pointing towards the fingertips, the wearer is thought to have given her hand in eternal love. Though the Claddagh is known traditionally as the Irish wedding ring, it can also be given to symbolize friendship.