The Claddagh ring, also known as the Irish wedding ring, is not just any ring – it’s a timeless symbol of love, friendship and loyalty. It stands out for its distinctive elements—the heart, the crown and the hands. Rooted in Irish tradition, the Claddagh ring carries a profound meaning that adds to its allure.
Despite its centuries-old history, the Claddagh ring remains a popular choice for those seeking a meaningful piece of jewellery. Its unique design and rich symbolism make it a versatile accessory that can be worn for various occasions, from weddings to everyday wear. So, whether you’re eyeing one for yourself or have been gifted one, here’s your guide to understanding the significance of the Claddagh ring.
Also See: Irish Wedding Traditions
The Significance of a Claddagh Ring
The Claddagh ring represents heritage and identity, deeply embedded in Irish history. Initially exchanged by married couples as a token of love, it now serves as a declaration of one’s relationship status – single, taken, engaged or married.
The Claddagh ring symbolises ‘Love, Loyalty & Friendship,’ or “Grá, Dílseacht, Cairdeas” (pronounced “Graw, Deal-shocked, Core-jass”) in Gaelic. The Claddagh ring design is pretty unique and typically features two hands clasping a heart with a crown over the heart. Here’s what the symbolic elements of Claddagh Rings stand for:
Heart (Love): The heart symbolises affection and romantic love.
Crown (Loyalty): The crown atop the heart symbolises loyalty and reminds us how important trust and faithfulness are in a relationship.
Hands (Friendship): The hands cradling the heart signify friendship, the cornerstone of any successful romantic relationship. It encourages couples to create strong and unbreakable bonds.
The heart, crown, and hands are intricately intertwined, symbolising the interdependence of love, loyalty, and friendship in a relationship. The fusion of these elements creates a design that is not only visually appealing but also makes wearing Claddagh rings deeply meaningful.
Know About the Origin & History of Claddagh Rings
There’s an intriguing story behind the Claddagh ring’s origin. The ring can be traced back 400 years, to the early 17th century, to the quaint fishing village of Claddagh in Galway, Ireland. Legend has it that a young man named Richard Joyce was captured by pirates and sold into slavery. He learned the craft of goldsmithing during his captivity. Once set free and reunited with his true love, he presented his future wife a wedding ring he had crafted in captivity, which later came to be known as, you guessed it, the Claddagh ring.
Traditional Irish Claddagh Rings Wearing Tips
The Claddagh ring is a versatile accessory that allows you to represent the state of your heart – whether it’s taken or still searching – depending on how it’s worn. Here’s how to wear a Claddagh ring to tell your relationship status:
Single
If you’re single, wear the Claddagh ring on your right hand with the heart’s tip pointing towards your fingertips – signaling your heart is open to love.
In a Relationship
If you’re in a relationship, wear the ring on your right hand with the heart’s tip pointing inwards – a declaration that your heart belongs to another.
Engaged
Wearing the Claddagh ring on your left hand, with the heart’s tip pointing outward, shows you’re engaged. This position signifies that someone has your love, but it hasn’t been sealed with marriage yet.
Married
The Claddagh ring, when worn on the left hand, with the tip of the heart pointing towards yourself, signifies that your heart is entirely enclosed by the bond of marriage.
In many Irish families, the traditional Irish Claddagh ring is more than just a piece of jewellery. It’s a cherished symbol of love and heritage, passed down from mothers to their eldest daughters, preserving them as a precious family heirloom through the generations.
If you’re looking for a unique heart ring or other men’s and women’s rings to mark your new beginning, we’ve got you covered. Head over to Angara and shop wedding rings for him and her that are handcrafted using the finest diamonds and gemstones. Don’t wait; pick your favourite now!
FAQs
1. How to wear a Claddagh ring?
Wear it proudly! If you’re single, flaunt it on the ring finger of your right hand, heart pointing outwards. In a relationship, sport it on your right hand with the tip of the heart facing inwards. Engaged? Wear it on the left ring finger with the heart pointing outwards. And for the happily married, wear it on your left ring finger with the heart facing inward.
