Legend has it that the Claddagh symbol was originated by Richard Joyce, a Galway seafarer kidnapped by pirates and sold into slavery in North Africa where he learned the art of a goldsmith.
When he was released, nothing could keep him from his beloved Galway where he returned to become a master goldsmith and where he created the Claddagh ring.
For centuries this was used as a wedding ring by the fisher folk of Claddagh village, which nestled outside the walls of Galway city in the west of Ireland.
Claddagh rings are worn as friendship, engagement or wedding rings depending on how they are worn.
Friendship: by placing the ring anywhere on your right hand.
Engagement: by placing the ring on the third finger of your left hand with the heart pointing outwards.
Wedding: by placing the ring on the third finger of your left hand with the heart pointing inwards towards your heart.
The symbols of the Claddagh are the Heart, Crown and Hands for Love, Loyalty and Friendship.
This is a 3 part stacking ring, each piece nests into the other two to create a stunning Claddagh ring. The central band is in sterling silver and is set with CZ stone, the top and bottom bands are in 10K yellow gold.
This contemporary and imaginative Claddagh ring is handmade in Ireland to order and is assayed at Dublin Castle. It comes in a presentation box complete with story card.
Weight: 3.8gms approx. ( combined rings)
Width: 4.9mm / 7.9mm at the top approx. ( combined rings )
Stone Details: 4 mm clear cubic zirconia to heart