Claddagh Rings of Ireland

For jewelry lovers looking for jewelry that conveys deep significance, many will find that of the engagement and wedding rings available in the market today lack in this respect. Sure, any engagement or wedding jewelry will be linked to when they were given and what they are for. Beyond this fact, however, they contain little symbolism by nature. In the case of a Claddagh ring though, the search for meaning that can be derived from the jewelry itself ends. Claddagh rings originated from Ireland in the village of The Claddagh in Galway. The natural symbolism of these beautiful pieces of jewelry make them popular among friends, unmarried couples and married couples alike.

Deeply rooted in Celtic traditions, Claddagh rings are Irish jewelry designs made up of two hands holding a heart with a crown topping the heart. A time-tested design that is centuries old, every one of these symbols have deep significance. The two hands represent friendship while the heart represents love and the crown symbolizes loyalty. It is easy to see why the intrinsic value of Claddagh rings make them preferred rings for couples who exchange these Celtic rings during their wedding ceremony instead of with traditional wedding rings. Claddagh rings have traditionally served the purpose of an external symbol of marital status. The popularity continues to grow and you will find that today, even non-Irish couples choose Celtic engagement rings and Celtic wedding rings.

How the ring is worn must be observed as it sends an important message about a person's availability. Claddagh rings worn incorrectly or with total disregard for the meanings is considered rude, especially more so if you are non-Irish. It is important to learn how a Claddagh ring should be worn so the traditions behind these rings are honored.

When worn on the right hand, it means the wearer is either unattached or engaged. The key lies in which way the heart is facing. When the heart faces outward or points towards the fingernails, it shows everyone that the person is still unattached. When the heart is facing inward (i.e. pointing towards the wrist), it shows that the person's heart is spoken for. This wearing method is used as a sign of friendship before the wedding.

At the wedding ceremony, couples will take out their Claddagh rings and move it to their left ring finger with the hearts facing inward to show that two hearts are joined in marriage.

Even though the use of Claddagh rings are found in Irish weddings, Celtic rings make excellent gifts among close friends as well. When a Claddagh ring is given to a friend, it is usually accompanied with the saying Let love and friendship reign.

There you have it -- a guide to Claddagh rings and how they should be worn. Armed with this knowledge, you can even appear to be Irish to your Irish friends.