Claddagh Ring: The Legend of the Irish Symbol

The Claddagh ring is the traditional Irish wedding ring, although it has become immensely popular among all cultures. The bezel of the ring shows two hands encircling a heart, with a crown above the heart. A beautiful Irish symbol, its motto is "Let love and friendship reign."

There are many legends concerning the origin of the Claddagh, but the one that is accepted as being closest to the truth is the folk tale of Richard Joyce. As a young man, he lived in the village of Claddagh, near the town of Galway on the west coast of Ireland. Hoping to seek his fortune in the West Indies before he married, he left his intended bride behind and sailed off. En route, the ship was attacked by Algerian pirates and Richard was sold into slavery.

Richard became the property of a wealthy Moorish goldsmith, who taught Richard the trade. In time, the apprentice became a master goldsmith. After fourteen years Richard was released from slavery to the Moors, along with other British subjects, at the demand of King William III as one of the first acts of his reign.

His master, who had grown fond of Richard and wanted him to remain in Algeria, offered his only daughter in marriage, along with a generous dowry if he would stay. Richard declined the offer and returned to Galway. Once home, he found his beloved was still waiting for his return. He presented her with the Claddagh ring he had designed as a tribute to his love for her, and they were married at last.

Richard Joyce continued his career as a goldsmith in Claddagh, from about 1689 to 1737, and the Claddagh became a symbol among the local community, whose main occupation was fishing. Legend says that the local fishermen used the Claddagh as a symbol to recognize one another, and would kill any fishermen they found in their waters who did not display the Claddagh. Eventually, the Claddagh spread across Ireland, and today it is the traditional Irish wedding ring.

The Claddagh was brought to America by Irish immigrants trying to escape starvation during the Great Famine. The ring was often the only possession or heirloom of any value that the family owned, and became a symbol of the Irish spirit. An Irish mother handed her Claddagh ring down to her daughter on her wedding day, and the ring became and enduring link between generations.

The way the ring is worn indicates a woman's romantic status. Worn on the right hand with the heart pointing outward (away from the wrist) shows that the woman is single and looking for her true love. Worn pointing inward on the right hand, the Claddagh tells the world her heart is spoken for. Upon marriage, the ring is moved to the left hand with the heart pointing inward.

The unique design and its significance, sentimental appeal, and fascinating history behind the Claddagh ring have given it an immense popularity all over the world which is unmatched by any other jewelry design. Folk lore tells us that it is unlucky to purchase a Claddagh for yourself, however; it must be received or given as a gift! Another piece of the legend says that if the band breaks while you are wearing the ring, the one you are with is destined to be your true love!