'Let love and friendship reign', the phrase aptly summarizes the essence behind the beautifully crafted Claddagh ring. Consisting of two hands joined together to support a single heart with a crown upon it, Claddagh rings are symbolic of love, loyalty, friendship, fidelity and a proud Irish heritage.
Said to have been first crafted more than 300 years ago in Claddagh, a fishing village on Galway Bay, there is more to a diamond Claddagh ring than popular history.
Legend has it that a young Irish man, Richard Joyce, while on his way to the West Indies (where he planned to work and later return to marry his love), was kidnapped by a band of Mediterranean pirates and sold to a Moorish goldsmith, who over many long years helped him perfect the skills of a master craftsman.
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When in 1689 King William III negotiated the return of the slaves, the goldsmith offered Joyce his daughter and half his wealth if he stayed, but Joyce denied his offer only to return home and marry his true love. It was then that he presented his beloved with an exquisite Claddagh ring as an expression of his love for her. Since then the ring has become a symbol of enduring commitment.
Today, Claddagh rings (sterling silver Claddagh rings, diamond Claddagh rings and many others) are worn by people all over the world, by those with Irish roots and by others who simply wear it for the love of its design and the symbolism it embodies.
When worn on the right hand, with crown and heart facing out, the ring signifies that the wearer's heart is yet to be won. When in love, it is worn with the heart and crown facing inwards and on the left hand. The crown and heart facing inwards on the left hand declare to all that the love of your life has been found and you shall never be parted.
You too could own this priceless symbol of eternal love. Choose from our collection of certified diamond rings, sterling silver Claddagh rings and much more, and mark a beautiful start to a life long commitment.
