Claddagh Rings: The Origin and Meaning Behind the Symbols By Stacy Carolin At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

Every individual has his or her own love story to tell. Most people who are ready to get married choose to give their spouse or partner something special that will symbolize and uphold the love that they have for each other. One of the most popular Irish rings that are given away by their partners to their loved ones is the Irish Claddagh rings. The Claddagh ring is rich in symbolism and meaning that it is very popular among couples. Each part of the ring represents a certain stage in the progress of the relationship between lovers. The main theme of the ring is love and friendship reigning above everything else.

The Symbols and Design

The Irish Claddagh rings are made up of different symbols in one overall design. Once you see a Claddagh ring, you will notice that it contains a crown placed on top of a heart that is held by two hands. Each of this design has a meaning behind it. The crown represents royalty while the heart symbolizes love. The meaning of the Claddagh ring, however, changes depending on who and how an individual wears the ring. For example, if you wear the ring on your right hand and the heart faces away from you, it means that you are single. If you wear it on your left hand with the heart still facing away from you, then it signifies that you are engaged to be married. If you are already married, then the ring is worn on you left hand with the heart facing towards your body, signifying that your heart belongs to someone already.

History of the Claddagh Ring

The truth is that there are a lot of stories regarding the origins of the Claddagh ring. Probably the well-accepted story is that of Richard Joyce, a commoner from the town of Galway, Ireland. He was a slave under a Moorish goldsmith for 14 years and at the same time learned how to create jewelry. Joyce apparently was very good with what he does and impressed his master so much that he offered his own daughter’s hand in marriage in order to keep him after the king of England ordered every British prisoner to be set free. However, Joyce supposedly declined and returned to Galway and presented his first love with the ring that he had created while he was a slave. She, on the other hand, has remained faithful to him, all those years while he was gone. They were married shortly afterward. She was bearing the ring, which is now known as the Claddagh ring, on her finger.

The Irish Claddagh rings are surely a beautiful example of symbolism and beauty. Because of this history, many couples seek the Claddagh ring to signify and profess their love for their partners. Each aspect of the ring allows you to examine each step and progress of your relationship with your partner. It is something that will always serve as a constant reminder of the many things that you have gone through together and the love that you shared.

You can get your Claddagh Ring for your partner at Irish Indeed! They have the best selection that you can find.

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