The Story ofThe Claddagh Ring

The ring, depicting two hands clutching a heart complete
with crown, epitomizes the expression of lasting love and
eternal friendship. The heart symbolizes Love, the hands
Friendship and the crown Fidelity.


The Story
The romantic story of the mystical and beautiful Claddagh
Ring began over 300 years ago, in the ancient fishing village
of Claddagh just outside the walls of the city of Galway on
the west coast of Ireland.

Legend tells us a fishing boat from the village was captured
by pirates and the crew taken and sold as slaves. One of the
crew, Richard Joyce (who was to have been married that
very week,) was sold to a Turkish Gold Smith.
During his captive years never forgetting his girl back home,
he made a ring of gold for her.

After many years Richard eventually earned his freedom and
returned to Claddagh. To his great Joy he found his girl had
never given up hope of seeing him again. He gave her the ring
and they were married never to be separated.

The Tradition
Worn on the right hand, crown turned inwards, your heart is
yet to be occupied.
Worn on the right hand, crown turned outwards shows a
special commitment to someone.
Worn on the left hand, Crown turned outwards, Let our
love and friendship reign forever, never to be separated.