History of Irish Claddagh Rings
Claddagh rings have a long and storied history. The popular piece of jewelry is known for its iconic appearance: The centerpiece of the ring is two hands cradling a heart that wears a crown. It is generally made of gold or silver, and is a symbol of love, loyalty and friendship.
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Richard Joyce
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The creation of the Claddagh ring is most often attributed to Richard Joyce, a craftsman who took up metalwork after being captured as a slave in the 1600s in the Mediterranean. Though it is unknown whether created the design himself, he is generally credited with its popularization.
Legend
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The popular myth surrounding the ring's creation is that Joyce was a native of Claddagh, Ireland, and was captured and enslaved the same week he was due to be married. Supposedly, he then designed the ring while working under a goldsmith. When he was released from slavery, his master offered him a fortune and his daughter's hand in marriage, but Joyce declined so that he could return to his old love. He found that she had remained true to him throughout their years apart, and when they married, he gave her the Claddagh ring.
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Design
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The different parts of the Claddagh ring represent different values. The hands represent friendship, the crown represents loyalty, and the heart represents love.
Modern Significance
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The ring carries a variety of meanings depending on the hand on which it is worn and the ring's orientation. If it is worn on the right hand with the crown facing outward, the wearer is considering love. If it is on the right hand with the crown pointing inward, however, the wearer is not interested in love. On the left hand with the crown pointing outward, the ring symbolizes that its wearer is spoken for. It is considered bad luck to buy oneself a Claddagh ring; it should be a gift.
Popularity
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The Claddagh ring is a popular Irish wedding ring, and it can be worn by both men and women. The rings may be made with gemstones or birthstones laid in the crown, and they are popular in silver as well as yellow or white gold.
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References
- Photo Credit claddaugh ring image by Tanya McConnell from Fotolia.com
