The Ring of Claddah

Table of contents Description Origins and legends Symbolism

Description The Claddagh ring is a traditional Irish ring given which represents love, loyalty, and friendship (the hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty) The design and customs associated with it originated in the Irish fishing village of Claddah, located just outside the old city walls of Galway, now part of Galway City. The ring, as currently known, was first produced in the 17th century.

Origins and legends Galway has produced Claddagh rings continuously since at least 1700, but the name "Claddagh ring" was not used before the 1840s. There are many legends about the origins of the ring, particularly concerning Richard Joyce, a silversmith from Galway circa 1700, who is said to have invented the Claddagh design as we know.

Symbolism The Claddagh's distinctive design features two hands clasping a heart, and usually surmounted by a crown. The elements of this symbol are often said to correspond to the qualities of love (the heart), friendship (the hands), and loyalty (the crown). A "Fenian" Claddagh ring, without a crown, is a slightly different take on the design. Claddagh rings, with (more commonly than not) or without the crown, are relatively popular among the Irish and those of Irish heritage, such as Irish Americans, as culture symbols and as symbols of engagement, marriage, or love. Claddagh rings are often used as friendship rings but are most commonly used as wedding rings.