The Claddagh Ring Story is one of the misty fables of a unique Irish treasure. The Claddagh is a symbol of love, friendship and loyalty. Today in Ireland you can buy beautiful silver and gold rings, bracelets, and earrings with the Claddagh symbol on them.

The story goes as follows: About 400 years ago in a fishing village called Claddagh, overlooking Galway Bay, a Master Goldsmith named Richard Joyce lived. He crafted the now famous design that has become part of the heritage of Ireland. The design is distinguished by having the bezel cut or cast in the form of two clasped hands, symbolizing faith, trust or troth.

The design is particularly distinctive, having the two hands clasp a heart surmounted by a crown. It truly is a beautiful design! The earliest Claddagh rings that can be dated are stamped with the mark of Richard Joyce in the late 1600s and early 1700s.

The ring, if worn on the right hand with the crown turned inward, tells of a heart yet unoccupied. If the ring is worn on the right hand with the crown turned outwards, it reveals a love being considered. If a person wears the ring on the left hand with the crown turned outward, your heart is truly spoken for.

Early rings are sometimes compared with the Claddagh ring. Some are described as having mitre-like crowns, and made from coins. There is a Munster ring, and Spanish rings similar to the Claddagh.

It is said that the Claddagh ring was the only ring ever made in Ireland that was worn by Queen Victoria. Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were presented with gifts using the Claddagh ring motif set in beautiful Connemara marble. President Ronald Regan was presented a specially commissioned 18 carat gold Claddagh ring in 1984.