The Claddagh Ring is the Greatest Expression of Undying Love

If you ever, in your travels to Ireland or while visiting a shop selling Irish traditional jewelry, see a ring with a heart-shaped stud capped by a crown and offered on both its sides by two hands, what you are gazing at is a Claddagh ring, a symbol steeped in the Irish tradition of love, loyalty and faithful friendship. Love is symbolized by the heart, loyalty by the crown and friendship by the hands bestowing love and loyalty.

The ancient symbol for a strong bond, the clasped hands, was the basis for the Claddagh

Clasped hands have always been depicted in jewelry to symbolize lasting friendship and marriage. Quite naturally, the handshake has always stood for the warmth of feeling between two friends. In a similar manner, when couples pronounce their marriage vows, they do so with their hands clasped. The outstretched and bestowing hands of the Claddagh is a uniquely Irish variation on the traditional ‘hands’ theme. The Irish interpretation goes deeper into what makes lasting relationships; friendship, love and loyalty

Claddagh rings may be worn by both men and women

Claddagh rings may be worn by both genders. It is acceptable to buy them for yourself or as a gift to someone to whom you are closely attached. They are particularly suitable as wedding rings and when both bride and groom are wearing Claddagh rings, the ring becomes at the same time a symbol and a charm ensuring that their union will be lasting.

There is a traditional protocol for the way Claddagh rings are inserted into one’s finger

If you ever buy a Claddagh ring for yourself or have been given one by an ardent admirer, you have to know the rules for wearing them, especially if you are among Irish people who are steeped in their tradition. Persons who are single and un-attached should wear the Claddagh ring on their right hand with the heart facing outwards or to the other person. This position signifies one’s openness to a relationship. When the heart is worn facing the wearer, the ring is conveying the fact that the wearer is involved in a relationship but is not yet committed. People who are already engaged or married should wear the ring on their left hand with the heart facing them.

As you can see, if you are not careful about the way you wear your Claddagh ring in an Irish crowd, you may be unknowingly soliciting romantic advances. Specifically, married and engaged people should always take note of how they wear their Claddagh rings in order to avoid issues that can affect their relationship.

Beautifully crafted Claddagh rings are inexpensive

There are masterfully crafted yet inexpensive Claddagh jewelry available in live stores. A more convenient way to purchase these rings is over the internet. You can see a fine array of different styles. The heart is frequently made out of semi-precious stones or birth stones. Alternatively, they can be made out of silver or gold. Beautiful silver rings can be yours for less than $100. For 14 k gold rings, you may need to spend around $300.

Now that Valentine’s Day is just a few weeks away, consider giving your loved one a Claddagh ring with his or her birthstone embedded in it. Both silver and gold versions are made of the finest metals if you get them from authentic Irish jewelry outfits. But the money-value of the gift will matter less than the meaningfulness of this gift for Valentine’s Day.
With a keen interest in belts, Jackie Reese researches and writes about wallets and all other types of mens leather belts. Click here for more information about money clips and here for front pocket wallet.