Originally a symbol of the Fisher Kings, the Royal Claddagh ring (pronounced clada) has reigned as an Irish symbol of love, loyalty, fidelity, and friendship. Traditionally, the rings were passed down in Irish families from mother to daughter. The first recorded occurance of the rings dates back to the time of Mary I and the 17th century. A heart mounted by a crown and sandwiched between a pair of joining hands forms the famous claddagh symbol.
 | Claddagh Poem
With this crown I offer my loyalty.
With these hands, I offer my service.
With this heart, I give you mine in love.
In friendship, let us reign. |
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| If a person wears the claddagh ring on the right hand with the heart facing out, they are not promised to another. If the claddagh ring is worn on the right hand with the heart facing inward, the person wearing the ring is spoken for. Lastly, if the claddagh ring is worn on the left hand with the heart facing inward, the person's union with another is complete. |
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Legend has it that a young Irish craftsman, Richard Joyce, left his home and one true love in Ireland to set sail for the Jamaican slave plantations. Tragically, his voyage ended after being kidnapped by a band of Mediterranean pirates. The pirates sold Joyce to a Moorish craftsman who taught Joyce the art of making gold jewelery.
In 1869, King William III negotiated the free return of his enslaved people. The Moorish craftsman tempted Joyce to remain with him by offering his daughter and half of his wealth as a grand dowry. Even when presented with such great wealth, Joyce returned to his long lost love in Galway. He presented her with a Royal Claddagh Ring as a symbol of his never ending love for her. |
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The royal claddagh rings are traditionally handed down from mother to daughter. During the great potato famine of the 19th century in Ireland, many people hastily emigrated to other lands. In most cases, the only object of value that they could carry was the family royal claddagh rings. These rings reminded them of their homeland like nothing else did. In more recent times, you can find this golden symbol formed into earrings and necklace charms as well as rings.
Many famous royal people have worn the claddagh ring. Most notably, Queen Alexandia and King Edward II of Britain as well as Queen Victoria of combined nations of Britain and Irland. The principalty of Monaco has a connection with Ireland that persuades them to continue the Claddagh tradition within in the Royal family of Monaco and the loving memory of the beautiful Irish princess – Princess Grace of Monaco. |
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