Irish Rings

Significant Irish rings of love

Claddagh rings are Irish rings that represent love, friendship and loyalty. The history behind these rings tells of a young man from the village of Claddagh who was sold into slavery the week he was to be wed. He was sold to a gold smith who taught him the trade and it was there that he designed these significant irish rings. The design consists of arms for friendship, a crown for loyalty, and a heart for love. When the young man was finally set free, he passed up on offers for riches and the gold smith's only daughter. The young man, not so young anymore, returned to his old village where he found his old finance had not yet married. They wed immediately and the wedding bands they used were the rings he designed, the Claddagh rings.

Nowadays, Claddagh rings have become popular items in Irish weddings, often given to the daughter by her mother. When the ring is worn on the right hand with the crown faced inward, it means that the girl's heart is still unoccupied. On the same hand with the crown faced outward means that she thinks of someone. When these Irish rings are worn on the left hand with the crown faced outward is when it means that the woman is happily married, enjoying friendship and love all at once. It is said to be bad luck to buy a Claddagh ring for yourself. It should only be received as a gift.

If you want to show your special someone your love, friendship, and loyalty, Claddagh rings make perfect gifts. They are beautiful pieces of jewelry that contain a romantic message of undying love. For more information on the history of these Irish rings, please visit the sites listed below.

And also be sure to check out our pages with ideas for Creative Irish Gifts, Irish Jewelry, Irish Gift Baskets, and Irish Clothing elsewhere on this site.