The Claddagh ring originated in Ireland and is a symbol of love, friendship and loyalty. But how do you wear a Claddagh ring in the 21st century to look stylish and classy?
The two hands of the Claddagh ring symbolize friendship. And these two hands hold a heart, which represents love. The crown above the heart represents loyalty. This ring held between two hands dates back to Roman times and was considered a symbol of mutual oaths. This is why in Renaissance Europe they were used as engagement or wedding rings.
Claddagh rings gained global attention during the 20th century. Over time, it has become a fashion statement for many forward-thinking people who want to embrace history and make it a major fashion statement. Read on to learn more about this mysterious and powerful ring and how to wear it to look stylish in the 21st century. Scroll down!
What is a Claddagh Ring?
This ring has different meanings depending on how it is worn. Wearing it is a symbol of Irish heritage or a commitment to the three fundamental aspects that the ring represents – friendship, love and fidelity. The ring originated in a small town called Claddagh in County Galway, which explains the ring’s unique name. It is round, set on a gold or silver band, and is shaped like two clasped hands holding a crowned heart. The ring can even be given to someone as a friendship ring.
Claddagh rings are derived from a group of European finger rings known as “fede rings”. The word “fede” comes from the Latin “mani in fede,” which means two people joining forces of faith or loyalty.
trivia
The word “Claddagh” is derived from the Irish word “Cladach” which means “rocky beach”. The oldest components of this ring date back to the 1700s.
Ashlee Jaine, certified personal stylist, says: “The Claddagh ring can be worn as a sentimental accessory, reflecting one’s ancestors, a loved one or an affinity for the rich Irish culture. The multiple meanings behind the ring give it versatility Sexual and meaningful jewelry that you can integrate with your outfits and wardrobe.”
A gorgeous Claddagh ring that can be worn as an engagement ring, engraved with different patterns; however, the meaning remains the same. This ring has become famous outside of Ireland and is better known as one of the Celtic designs.
YouTuber Jasmine Dyer shared the special moment she exchanged Claddagh rings with her boyfriend to celebrate their 10-month wedding anniversary. She dives into the various ways a Claddagh ring can be worn to reflect one’s relationship status, making it a versatile and meaningful piece of jewelry. She mentioned: “I really love what the ring represents and the symbolism on the ring. It’s not just about the cost; it’s about the cost. It’s about love and the meaning behind it(i) .”
How to Wear a Claddagh Ring
So, let’s understand the correct way to wear a Claddagh ring. It can be a gold Claddagh ring or a silver ring. We’ll tell you how to wear a Claddagh ring correctly. Long before social media became a fashion and a medium to show your love to your partner by posting sweet posts about them, this beautiful ring was seen as a public expression of commitment.
There are many ways to wear this ring, but if you want to wear it the right way and respect its Irish heritage, you must follow the Claddagh Ring Rules –
- If the ring is worn on the right hand with the heart-shaped edge pointing toward the wearer’s hand, it means the wearer is in love.
- If the ring is worn on the right hand with the heart-shaped edge facing outward and away from the wearer’s body, it means that the person wearing the ring is not yet in a relationship and their heart is ready to fall in love.
- If the ring is worn on the left hand or ring finger with the heart-shaped edge facing outward, the wearer is engaged.
- If the ring is worn on the left hand or ring finger and the heart-shaped edge points toward the wearer’s body, it means the wearer is married.
Interesting facts
Celebrities such as John F. Kennedy, Jennifer Aniston, Dermot O’Leary and Julia Roberts have all been spotted wearing Claddagh rings.
What is the history behind the Claddagh Ring?
Want to know the origins of the Claddagh Ring? There are several stories about the origin of the ring. The legend of the Joyce family is based on lost romantic Irish folklore. Richard Joyce was a goldsmith from Galway who was captured by the Algerians. He was further sold as a slave to a Moorish goldsmith in the village of Claddagh. In need of an apprentice, the goldsmith noticed Joyce’s talents as a craftsman and decided to teach Joyce the techniques of the silversmith’s trade. During his years as a slave, Joyce longed to find his true love, but he left her behind in his hometown. In 1689, the then ruler William III demanded the release of all British subjects in Algeria. Joyce’s kidnappers try to keep him, offering half of his wealth and his only daughter in marriage to Joyce, but Joyce refuses and returns to Ireland, only to find that his love is already waiting for him.
Returning to Galway, Joyce established himself as a goldsmith and created the unique design now known as the Claddagh Ring. Joyce made this ring for his partner from gold stolen from Moorish goldsmiths to represent their friendship, love and fidelity. In some surviving early Claddagh rings you can still find Richard Joyce’s initials, also known as the silversmith’s maker’s mark.
Can I wear a Claddagh ring if I’m single?
Wondering how to wear a Claddagh ring when you’re single? As already mentioned, this ring represents Irish heritage and most Irish people wear it to advertise their relationship status. These beautiful rings are worn around the world with small changes or additions to age-old traditions. It is worth noting that Claddagh rings can be worn by single people. A Claddagh ring is given by a mother to her daughter as a blessing and passed down to future generations.
We’ve established that singles can wear Claddagh rings, but how? To do this, we must revisit the rules for wearing a Claddagh ring. If you are single, you must wear the ring on your right hand with the heart-shaped edge facing outward. This shows that you are not in love yet and your heart is ready for love. Also, if you’re lucky enough to find the right ring, you’ll want to turn it upside down so that the heart-shaped edge faces your body to show that you’re in love. When your mind is outward, you will be more open to seeing the world and finding the right person. But when your heart is turned inward, it means that your heart is reserved and committed to one person.
What are the different types of Claddagh rings?
As the Claddagh ring became more famous as a universal symbol of love, ring manufacturers came up with a variety of designs, such as:
- Celtic Knot Claddagh Ring
This is one of the most popular designs for rings. There are Celtic knots around the band instead of hands clasping the heart. The knot represents friendship, love, commitment, loyalty, and often the holy trinity. This design is primarily presented as an engagement ring.
- Claddagh ring set as wedding ring
In this style, the crown is detached and worn as a separate ring, while the clasped hands hold the heart like another set of rings. The way to wear this ring is quite creative.
A large or chunky Claddagh ring helps make a statement while maintaining the authenticity of the design.
- Simple Claddagh ring with a rustic feel
If you want to wear a Claddagh ring with an antique feel, this is the one you should choose. It’s sure to please the fool you are.
- wood claddagh ring
Finding a beautiful and authentic Claddagh ring can be difficult, and even if you find it, it may not be durable. Now, if you own a wooden ring, you don’t have to worry about its durability. And it’s cheap, which adds to its appeal!
- Skull Design Claddagh Ring
This design won’t be for everyone, but it will probably be eye-catching and interesting for most people, and make sense for people who like to do things their own way. In this design, the hands are the skeleton and the heart is a real human heart. The interpretation of the ring can be that only death can separate you and your partner, or it can be seen as a reflection of your love life and growth beyond the concept of physical infinity.
Claddagh rings are of great significance to Irish culture. It is decorated with different symbols such as crowns, hearts and hands which have deep meanings. Watch the next video to find out what they represent.
We’ve already discussed how to wear a Claddagh ring, but you can interpret the meaning of this unique ring based on your relationship with your partner and make it your own. You can wear it to show your admiration for Irish culture or to show your affection to the rest of the world. Mothers also give Claddagh rings to their daughters to bless them and pass them down from generation to generation. No matter who wears a lovely Claddagh ring, it always has a special meaning to them.
FAQ
Can non-Irish people wear a Claddagh ring?
Yes. Anyone can wear a Claddagh ring as it makes a romantic gift for people of all nationalities. Additionally, Claddagh’s ring represents friendship, love, and loyalty.
Who can give you a Claddagh ring?
Claddagh rings are not just for couples or people in romantic relationships. It can also be given to family and friends as a symbol of love.
Main points
- The Claddagh ring dates back to Galway, Ireland and is a symbol of love and friendship.
- It is in the shape of a belt with two hands clasping a crowned heart.
- The Claddagh ring is not only an expression of love and commitment, but also a symbol of culture and heritage.
- Depending on the reason for wearing a Claddagh ring, you can choose between a Celtic knotted Claddagh ring or a wooden Claddagh ring.
Personal Experience: Source
StyleCraze’s articles are intertwined with real personal narratives, giving our content depth and resonance. The following are the sources of the personal accounts cited in this article.
(i) My Claddagh Ring
