The Story of the Claddagh

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The Claddagh Ring

Green and misty fables surround the story of Ireland's unique symbol of love and friendship...the Claddagh Ring.

Its tradition lies deep in the dark pools of the history of Galway. ancient City of Tribes.

One version speaks of Richard Joyce, swept to slavery from the little fishing village of Claddagh; of time passing and the intervening years in which Richard became a masterly goldsmith who eventually rewarded with freedom.

When at last he returned to his beloved Claddagh he turned his fine skills to the creation of a jewel that would be renowned as an emblem of love and frienship: two hands cradling a crowned heart.

Today, the village of Claddagh may have vanished but its golden legacy remains.

Worn on the right hand,
the crown turned outwards, and 'tis clear that a love is being considered.

But when it is worn on the left hand,
the crown outwards: two loves have become inseparable.

The Claddagh Ring
per Mary Jo O'Reilly

The Claddagh ring originated in Count Galway, by a nobleman who had to leave his bethrothed to go back to his own country, where war had broken out. Before leaving his beloved, he had a ring designed for her, which became very popular, and is now widely known as "the Claddagh ring", or "the friendship ring"

The meaning of the heart and hands denotes giving of the heart, and the Crown symbolizes that love rules the world. Originally, there existed a village called "Claddagh", situated on Galway bay, which was the location of the above story. That village has long since been absorbed into what is now called Galway Town.

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The Story of the Claddagh

The Story of the Claddagh - Inset