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.
Celtic knots come in a variety of designs and were used for decoration in the insular art of the period. They are most well known for their use in the ornamentation of Christian monuments and manuscripts such as the 8th-century Book of Kells. Although no one is certain, Celtic knot work is believed to be symbolic of the neve ending life cycle, the constance of love, the cycle of life and the constant changing of the seasons in nature.
Weight: 9.8gms approx.
Width: 11.3mm
Length: Standard 7 1/2"
