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What is a Claddagh ?

The Claddagh Ring is today one of the most endearing symbols of Irish culture and sentiment. This unique and wonderful ring derives its name from the Town of Claddagh near Galway where it is said to have originated.

The designer of the Claddagh Ring is thought to be Richard Joyce, a native of Galway. While being transported as a slave, he was captured by pirates and sold to a Moorish goldsmith who trained him in his craft. In 1689, his Moorish master released him and allowed him to return to his home in Galway where he set up a small shop in the Claddagh and began to make the ring that has helped to make this town famous.

Claddagh Rings depict a heart topped with a crown, and held by two hands -- one on either side. The hands signify friendship, the crown loyalty, and the heart love. The phrase that is usually associated with the ring is "Let love and friendship reign."

The Claddagh is frequently used as a marriage ring. Today, the ring is worn extensively by both men and women across Ireland. It is traditionally worn either on the right hand with the heart turned outwards to show that the wearer is unattached or with the heart turned inwards to show he or she is "spoken for." If the wearer is married, it is worn on the left hand, with the heart turned inward. The Claddagh grows more and more popular as time passes because of its unique design, its peculiar history, its sentimental appeal and its close association with the ancient Claddagh of Galway.