The Claddagh Ring
The claddagh ring is a symbol of togetherness that can be used to indicate anything from friendship to marriage.
What Is A Claddagh Ring?
The design of the claddagh ring shows two hands either forming or holding a heart. A crown is often placed on top of the heart - claddagh's without the crown are sometimes referred to as fenian claddagh or Dublin claddagh.The basic idea of a ring showing two hands is a variation of the Roman fede ring, named from the Latin mani in fede - hands in faith.
History
Although claddagh jewelry is often sold in celtic stores, the symbol appears to date back some 300 years - a time much more recent than the era of the ancient celts. However some people believe it to have ancient celtic roots with the two hands representing Anu and Dagda, the mother and father of the celtic gods. The crown is said to represent Beathauile, "life".
The history of the modern claddagh is uncertain, though it is usually assumed to be connected
with the Irish fishing village of Claddagh, just outside Galway city. The village no
longer exists as a distinct entity, the area it once occupied having been absorbed by the
expanding city.
Of the various tales of the origin of the claddagh one the the most widely accepted is that it was designed by one Richard Joyce. He was reportedly captured by Algerian pirates and spent years in captivity, working as forced labour for a metalsmith, possibly a goldsmith. Here he learned the art of jewelry making. When eventually released Joyce returned to Galway where he made the first claddagh ring which he presented to his bride for their wedding.
Wearing
There are traditions concerning the wearng of the claddagh ring which say that the choice of hand and the direction in which the heart points indicates the wearer's relationship status. However many people buy and wear the rings without knowing these customs so it's best not to rely on them!