The iconic Irish ring, the Claddagh, from County Galway.Getty.
Though it is a traditional Irish piece of jewelry, the emblem is now a globally recognized token of love, loyalty and friendship.
Having been around for centuries, the Claddagh symbol is now integrated into not just rings but necklaces, bracelets, earrings etc., but just where did it all begin?
History
The Claddagh Quay, in Galway.
The Claddagh Ring is said to have originated in the small fishing village of Claddagh in Galway in the late 17th or early 18th century.
Its creator's identity remains a mystery; however, Irish folklore tells the tale of Richard Joyce, a goldsmith captured by pirates and enslaved in Morocco.
It is said that in an attempt to make Richard stay after his release, his master offered his daughter's hand in marriage and half of his wealth. However, he declined and set sail for Galway where his beloved awaited his return.
Once reunited with his one true love, he presented her with a wedding band he made while in captivity. Lore says the ring was the first of what has become globally recognized as the Claddagh Ring.
Symbolism
Claddagh symbolism: The hands symbolise friendship, the heart represents love and the crown represents loyalty.
The Claddagh Ring consists of two hands cradling a heart, topped with a crown. Each of these elements represents a different quality; the hands symbolise friendship, the heart represents love and the crown represents loyalty.
Though a Claddagh Ring is often given by a romantic partner, it's not solely reserved for this purpose. It can also be given as an expression of love from family members and friends as the hands, heart and crown together powerfully signify unwavering commitment and affection.
Tradition
Do you wear your Claddagh on the right or the left hand?
Traditionally, the way someone wears their Claddagh Ring signifies their romantic status.
When worn on the left hand with the heart facing inward, you're married. If the heart is racing outward on the left hand, it signifies that you're engaged.
When worn on the right hand facing inward, you're in a relationship. If you wear the ring with the heart facing out on the same finger it typically means you're available.
Nicola Coughlan's modern Claddagh Ring
Bridgerton actress Nicola Coughlan recently commissioned a modern Claddagh Ring from Irish jewellery designer Chupi.
According to the designer, 'the heart of the Claddagh, symbolising love, is set with a 2ct lab grown diamond' and is 'held in a pair of hands that honour friendship and strength with the left hand wearing a tiny North Star signet ring.'
It is 'crowned with three marquise diamonds that symbolise the past, present and future along with a nod to the fact this is the third season of Bridgerton. The ring is set on a signature Chupi hawthorn twig, cast from a hawthorn tree in 14k gold.' How beautiful!