Claddagh Ring Etiquette
The Claddagh ring originated in Ireland and is still widely used as a symbol of love, marriage and/or engagement. The ring consists of a heart with a crown held by a pair of hands. Both men and women wear them. Depending on how it is worn, the ring can symbolize that someone is interested in a romantic relationship, in a relationship, engaged or married. Using proper Claddagh ring etiquette will send the right message to those who see your ring.
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Parts of the Ring
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A Claddagh ring consists of three parts: a heart, a crown and a pair of hands. The heart represents love, the crown stands for loyalty and the hands symbolize friendship. Knowing the meaning of the parts of the ring will help you understand ring etiquette and what it symbolizes.
Looking for Love
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Show that you are interested in finding a loving relationship by wearing the Claddagh ring on your right hand with the crown facing toward you. This indicates that you are looking for love and no one has captured your affection yet. In other words, your heart is open to love.
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In a Relationship
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To show that you are in a relationship, wear your Claddagh ring on your right hand, but point the heart toward you and the crown outward. This shows that someone has your heart and it is no longer available for the taking. You can also wear the ring this way if you want to indicate that you are not interested in a relationship at the moment.
Engaged
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Wear the Claddagh ring on your left ring finger with the crown pointing toward you and the heart outward to show that you are engaged to someone. Once married, you will change the position of the ring. This tradition is still practiced by couples in Ireland and those with an Irish background.
Married
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Wear the Claddagh ring on your left ring finger with the heart facing you and the crown pointing away to show that you are married. This indicates that two hearts have been joined together. The Claddagh ring continues to be used as a symbol of marriage in Ireland and is often a part of the marriage ceremony.
Considerations
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Not everyone may be familiar with the Claddagh ring and its symbolism, but when it is spotted by those who do, rest assured they will know what signal you are trying to send.
Following proper ring etiquette will prevent confusion and make your relationship status clear to others.
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References
- Photo Credit Heartfelt Sunset image by Deuceswild from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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moreen2b
Jan 12, 2011
I was given my best friends claddagh ring after she passed away a few months ago. I wear it on my left hand middle finger in her memory. Since the ring is so symbolic is it disrespectful for me to wear it?
