What is striking is the distinctive design of the ring And the deep symbolic significance behind the features of the ring. The Claddagh ring shows a heart cocooned between two entwining hands, surmounted with a crown which when exchanged with the beloved aptly emphasizes the popular phrase in Irish history- “With these hands I give you my heart and I crown it with my love”. The element of this ring symbolizes the universal feelings of love characterized by the heart and loyalty shown by the surmounted crown. It is important that marriage be based on the strong foundation of true friendship between the couple, and this is represented by the two clasping hands in the Claddagh ring.
The manner in which the ring is worn shows the romantic availability of the person wearing the ring. If it is worn on the right hand with the crown facing outwards it means that you are still on the lookout for your beloved. But if you are considering love and friendship, you should wear the Claddagh ring on the right hand with the crown acing inwards. However if you are one of the lucky ones who’s already betrothed to his/her soul mate, you should wear the ring on your left hand with the crown facing inwards, so as to declare that your heart has already been taken.
The history behind the origin of the Claddagh ring is as varied and colorful as one can assume. However the most
factual story is of a person called Richard Joyce who was captured while on a sea trip and sold as a slave to a goldsmith
in Algiers. He being a quick and clever fellow quickly learnt the art of jewelry making. However, when slavery
was abolished in Algiers and all British slaves were to be freed, the goldsmith offered his only
Daughter’s hand to Richard in marriage, so that Richard could stay back and work with the goldsmith. However, the latter refused, as his heart was already captured by a maiden in his
native village in Ireland. When he went back, his joy knew no bounds when he realized that his beloved had
remained true and faithful to him and had waited all these years for him to return. Richard, using his knowledge
when in slavery for the goldsmith, fashioned a Claddagh ring for his sweetheart.
In this way the Claddagh Ring has become an ideal way to express one’s love, commitment and true friendship and embark upon a beautiful journey known as “marriage”.
