This July Birthstone Claddagh Ring is set with a beautiful Ruby stone in the Claddagh heart, the birthstone for July. The Claddagh heart symbolizes love, the hand’s friendship and the crown loyalty.
The Ruby stone is the captivating stone of nobility named for its rich red color. It is said to promote courage, success, heightened awareness and concentration. Of course it is also considered to be the stone of passion and was highly prized by Chinese emperor Kublai Khan. The Ruby considered the king of gems and represent love, health and wisdom. It was believed wearing a fine red Ruby bestowed good fortune on its owner.
The Claddagh Ring dates to the 17th century and originated in the little fishing village of Claddagh in County Galway, Ireland. Legend has it that Richard Joyce, a Galway native, was captured and sold to slavery in North Africa. However, Joyce found himself slave to a Turkish Goldsmith, and from his master he learned and excelled at the craft.
He was finally released after 14 years, on the orders of William III. The Goldsmith for whom he was working for was so impressed by his work that he offered his daughters hand in marriage to him as well as half his property to try and get him to stay. But Joyce refused the offer and returned to Galway, where his sweetheart awaited him. But while in captivity, he had made what we now know as the Claddagh Ring especially for her. For centuries this was used as a wedding ring by the fisher folk of Claddagh village.
The July Birthstone Claddagh Ring is a great gift to give to a friend born in July. We also have a matching July Claddagh Pendant which makes it the perfect gift combination.