What Is the Proper Way to Wear a Claddagh Ring?
The Irish Claddagh ring has become a rich symbol of love, friendship and loyalty. It can be worn by both men and women, and is perfect for many occasions celebrating love and friendship.
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History
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The history of the Claddagh ring originated in the fishing village of Claddagh, Ireland. The most widely accepted theory about the ring is that Richard Joyce of Galway was kidnapped by the Algerians and sold as a slave to the Moors. He became a slave to a Moorish goldsmith who trained him and then offered him wealth to stay when he was released. Joyce refused. After his release, he returned to Claddagh to find his first love and gave her the ring.
Significance
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The ring is formed by two hands holding a heart. Above the heart is a crown. The two hands are joined together in either friendship or love, and the crown signifies loyalty. The basic meaning of the ring is "Let love and friendship reign forever."
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How to Wear the Ring
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Claddagh rings can be given as friendship, engagement or anniversary rings. If the wearer is engaged or married, she should wear the ring on the left hand with the heart pointing toward the wrist, to say that her heart is taken. If the wearer is not "taken" by anyone, the ring is worn on the right hand with the heart pointing toward the fingertips. This says that the wearer is interested in love. If the wearer is not interested in love, she wears the ring on the right hand with the heart turned toward the wrist.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit claddaugh ring image by Tanya McConnell from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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Lois,my parents bought my first one after i got out of Commerce High,which is traditional in Irish families.My husband bought me the second one when we got married and now he bought me an Claddagh with a Emerald in it for Christmas,also i have gold Claddagh loops my children bought for me also a Celtic cross i wear every day.Guess you could say i'm proud to be Irish and also very proud to be American,blessings dear Lois
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I also wear a Claddagh Ring. My husband bought it for me on a vacation trip in Tennessee. I also have matching sterling silver earrings.
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The Claddagh ring I just received for Christmas of 2011, is one of three that I have but the most special of them all.The symbol and meaning of the Claddagh has always been special to me, i wear it with pride and a feeling of happiness.
