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Special symbols are required for special occassions, and there are none more special than those of the Claddagh wedding ring. Consisting of a crowned heart held in a pair of hands, the symbols signify love, fidelity and friendship, and are the perfect expression of wedding vows.
Often accompanied by the phrase “With these hands I give you my heart, and crown it with my love”, the Claddagh ring dates back centuries and is a rich and evocative ring, perfect for expressing your depth of feeling for that special person in your life. As a wedding token, it has no equal, and serves as a constant reminder of the vows taken on your wedding day.
The legend of Claddagh
Legend has it that a young Irish man called Richard Joyce from the village of Claddagh (pronounced “Clah-dah”), was on his way to work for a period of time in the West Indies, when he was kidnapped by a band of Mediterranean pirates and sold to a Moorish goldsmith. This goldsmith took him uder his wing and over many long years helped him perfect the skills of a master craftsman.
In 1689, King William III negotiated the return of the many captured slaves, ensuring the safe release of Richard Joyce. The goldsmith he worked for deperately wanted to keep Richard with him, and offered Joyce his daughter and half his wealth if he stayed, but Joyce denied his offer to return home and marry his true love. It was on this occasion that he presented his beloved with an exquisite Claddagh ring as an expression of his love for her. Since then the ring has become a symbol of enduring commitment.
The wearing of a Claddagh ring
When worn on the right hand, with crown and heart facing out, the ring signifies that the wearer's heart is yet to be won. When in love, it is worn on the left hand with the heart and crown facing inwards. The crown and heart facing inwards on this hand declare to all that the love of your life has been found and you shall never be parted. What better ring for a marriage!
Today, Claddagh rings are worn by people all over the world, some with Irish roots and others who simply wear it for their admiration of its design and the symbolism it embodies.
You too could own this priceless symbol of eternal love. Choose from our collection of diamond rings, sterling silver Claddagh rings and much more, and mark a beautiful start to a life long commitment.
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