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The Claddagh (CLAW-dah) is a symbol rich in history and significance. Melanie's engagement ring is a Claddagh and Melanie and Dave's wedding rings are Claddagh bands. The story of the Claddagh dates back to the early 16th century. Legend has it that pirates captured a fishing boat off the shores of Ireland and sold its crew into captivity. One of the fisherman, a man by the name of Richard Joyce from the village of Claddagh, was to have been married that same week. His betrothed waited in vain for his return so they could be wed--but it was not to be. Richard Joyce was sold to a Turkish goldsmith who taught Richard his craft. It was during his captivity that he designed the Claddagh ring for his love whom he never forgot. The elements of the ring bespoke his deep love for her: the crown signifies loyalty, the hands stand for friendship and the heart means love. Richard was eventually able to escape and make his way back home. To his great joy, he found his love had never married, and was waiting for him to return! He gave her the ring he made for her and they married, never to be separated again. The Claddagh is still worn in Ireland and is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. Traditionally, if you wear the ring with the crown facing inward it means you are unattached. If the ring is worn with the crown facing outward, your heart belongs to your love. |
