Claddagh Rings Information

Traditional Irish Claddagh rings are worn by millions.

The Claddagh ring is a traditional Irish wedding ring. It is composed of two hands holding a heart with a crown at the top. It is now worn by millions of people throughout Ireland and the world, especially Irish-Americans. The ring is unique in the way it conveys the wearer's relationship status depending upon the way it is worn.

History

The history of the Claddagh ring is steeped in myth and folklore. It derives its name from Claddagh, County Galway, where legend has it that the first one was made almost 400 years ago. As the story goes, in true Irish fashion, there was a man called Richard Joyce who set sail in 1675 for the West Indies, only to be captured by pirates. During his captivity, he learned how to make gold jewelry. Upon his return to Claddagh 15 years later, he presented a ring he had designed to the woman he loved. She had waited loyally for his return.

Significance

Despite the mysteries of its beginnings, the meaning of the ring is simple--love, loyalty, friendship, or in Gaelic, "gra, derseacht, cairdeas." The hands signify faith and trust. The heart promises not only love but also charity. The crown signifies loyalty along with honor, or the hope of future glory. There is a poem intended to make the meaning easy to remember:
"The hands are there for friendship,
The heart is there for love,
For loyalty throughout the years
The crown is raised above."

Types

There have been several types of Claddagh rings made over the years, though the original heart and hands remain throughout. Some versions feature three interlocking rings joined by a tiny bolt. This style is called a gimmel or puzzle ring, and has been popular since the 1400s. Additions have been made by setting the heart with a gemstone, perhaps a birthstone, diamond, or even a chip of Connemara marble. Some contemporary versions look sleeker, yet retain the significance for the modern wearer. The rings were originally made of gold and were family heirlooms, passed down from mother to daughter for generations.

Meanings

The way the Claddagh ring is worn conveys the relationship status of the wearer. It is always worn on the ring finger of either the right or left hand. If it is worn on the right hand with the heart pointing away from the wearer, it indicates singleness, or as the Irish call it, a heart open to love. If it is turned around and the heart points toward the wearer, it means the wearer is in a relationship. If the ring is transferred to the left hand with the heart pointing outward, the wearer is now engaged. Finally, when the Claddagh ring's heart points toward the wearer while worn on the left hand, it signals that the wearer is married.

Uses

Because of the way the Claddagh is worn, it can be used as a promise ring, an engagement ring and a wedding ring. It is also unisex, meaning that it is worn by both men and women. Since its meaning of love, loyalty and friendship is universal, the Claddagh can be worn by anyone. The meaning of the ring is timeless.

References

• "The Claddagh Ring"; Malchy McCourt; 2003