The Claddagh Ring originated in the Claddagh fishing village near Galway City in the West of Ireland. The ring shows two hands (representing friendship) presenting a heart (representing love) adorned by a crown (representing loyalty) and it is thus the traditional Irish wedding band.

The motto associated with the ring is 'Let love and friendship reign'.

At the time the ring was first created, Galway was ruled in much the same way as was much of Ireland - by local Septs or Clans who had their own chiefs. There were a number of famous Septs in the region and they became known as the 'Tribes of Galway'. Perhaps the most famous of these was the Joyce Sept.

There are a number of stories associated with this famous family that try to exlpain the origin of the Claddagh Ring.

The first is of Margaret Joyce who married a wealthy Spaniard in the late 1500's who, upon his death, left his fortune to Margaret who used the money for improving the situation of her family and community. Legend has it that Margaret was rewarded for her selfless deeds when an eagle dropped a golf ring into her lap. It is said that from this humble beginning the design for the ring was borne.

This story is at odds however with that concerning Richard Joyce. Whilst on a journey to the West Indies Richard was captured by Algerians and sold into slavery to a Moorish goldsmith who it is said trained him in his art.

At the demand of William III of England Richard was released from his slavery in 1689 and returned to Galway to establish his goldsmith business. He has since been credited with the creation of the distinctive Claddagh Ring design.
 

Royal Approval

The way the ring is carried is of most importance as, if the ring is worn with the crown facing inwards (to the hand) and with the heart on the inside, then it signifies that the bearer is married or engaged, or has found a lifelong friendship.

If the ring is worn with the heart on the outside and with the crown on the inside then it signifies that the bearer is not promised.