Claddagh. For many people with Irish roots, the very name brings up Celtic images of peat bogs and the misty past of old Ireland. Nearly as symbolic as the shamrock, this three-part ring is as important an image to Ireland as the harp.
You may have seen a Claddagh ring and not realized it. The unique design features two hands holding a heart with a crown atop the heart. It symbolizes friendship (the hands), love (the heart) and loyalty (the crown).
The Claddagh (pronounced clad-uh or clod-uh) is believed to have been handed down to the nation from the fishing village of the same name outside Galway on Ireland's west coast. There, Richard Joyce, the reputed maker of these rings, set out from his home for the West Indies.
Legend has it that Joyce was captured by Algerian pirates and sold into slavery. He was bought by a wealthy, skilled goldsmith who trained Joyce as his apprentice. Joyce became excellently proficient at the trade, earning the respect of his master.
Soon after King William III had taken the throne of England, he freed all British subjects from slavery. Joyce's master learned of this and offered his only daughter in marriage so Joyce would stay. However, Joyce declined the offer and sailed home to his girlfriend Nuala, who he gave his first finished Claddagh ring to and wed shortly after.
The Claddagh soon became the traditional wedding ring of the 17th century and is worn today as a symbol of love, loyalty, friendship and the owner's Irish heritage. It is often passed through generations, traditionally handed down from mother to daughter.
There are three different ways to wear this ring: worn on the right hand, with the heart facing outwards (towards the end of your finger), the ring says the owner is single. Worn on the right hand with the heart facing inward (towards your hand), the owner is taken. And, on the left hand with the heart facing inward means the owner is married.
The Claddagh design isn't just for rings, though. It can be found on virtually any type of jewelry from necklaces and bracelets to earrings and brooches, as well as many types of clothing. Numerous wedding accessories also bear the symbol.
