Claddagh Rings

The Claddagh ring (Irish: fáinne Chladaigh) is a traditional Irish ring given that represents love, loyalty, and friendship (hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, the crown represents loyalty). The design and customs associated with it originated in the Irish fishing village of Claddagh, located just outside the old city walls of Galway, now part of Galway City. The ring as we know it was first produced in the 16th century. The legend tells of Richard Joyce from Claddagh, Co Galway who was captured by Moor pirates and enslaved. In captivity, he became a master goldsmith. His skilful hands shaped a unique ring for the women he could never forget from home. After eight years he was released and returned to Ireland. To his great joy, her heart remained his and they were never to be separated again. The Claddagh Ring is a great traditional Celtic wedding band known teh wprld over.

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 or without the crown (most commonly with a crown), have come to denote pride in Irish heritage, while continuing to be symbols of love or marriage.

Celticgiftshop presents this beautiful Claddagh collection that includes Claddagh rings in silver, gold, two tone silver and gold, diamond, and a birthstone collection with matching earrings and pendants..