A legend of love, friendship and loyalty.
The Claddagh is a traditional Irish ring originating from the town of Claddagh in the 17th century. Claddagh is located in what is now the docks of Galway City and was a thriving fishing town.
The Claddagh Ring is a "Fede" or "Faith ring" which origins from the Middle Ages throughout Europe. Commonly this type of ring is forged to form two clasped hands.
The ring itself depicts two hands, a crown and heart representing friendship, loyalty and love.
The way at which one wears the ring determines its meaning to the wearer.
Wearing on the right hand with the heart pointing towards the nail signifies the wearer is seeking love, while placed in the opposite direction declarators the wearier is in a relationship. For those who are engaged, the ring is worn on the left hand pointed towards the nail, while placed opposite a declaration of marriage
It's believed the origin is one of romance by Richard Joyce a fisherman, captured by pirates and sold to slavery in Algeria.
Having been sold to a rich goldsmith, he was trained in the craft. He forged the Claddagh Ring inspired from the heavy heart at the thought his love back in Galway from whom he was cruelly torn away from.
When King William III organised an agreement to release all his subjects held in slavery, Richard returned to Galway in search of his one true love and to his joy was waiting for his return.
He asked for her hand in marriage presenting a Claddagh Ring.