Most engagement and wedding rings in the market carry little significance in itself beyond when they were given and what they are for. Some rings, however, are by nature symbolic. Such is the case in a Claddagh ring. Claddagh rings originated from Ireland in the village of The Claddagh in Galway. These rings are popular among friends, unmarried couples and married couples alike.
Claddagh rings are Irish jewelry designs consisting of two hands holding a heart with a crown topping it. Every one of these symbols have deep significance. The two hands represent friendship while the heart represents love and the crown symbolizes loyalty. Because of the built-in intrinsic meaning of a Claddagh ring, couples are increasingly exchanging these types of rings during their wedding vows instead of traditional wedding bands. Traditionally, a Claddagh ring was used an outward symbol of marital status. They have grown to be used by non-Irish couples as Celtic engagement rings and Celtic wedding rings today.
Besides the intrinsic meaning of the ring's symbols, how a Claddagh ring is worn sends an important message about one's availability for a relationship. Wearing Claddagh rings incorrectly or with disregard for the way it should be worn is considered rude, especially if you are non-Irish. There is some confusion as to how a Claddagh ring should be worn and it is important to take note of the traditions behind these rings so that they are honored.
When worn on the right hand:
- With the heart facing outward or pointing toward your fingernails, it shows everyone that you are still available.
- With the heart facing inward and pointing toward your wrist shows that your heart is spoken for as in the case of an engagement. This is used as a sign of friendship prior to the wedding.
During the wedding ceremony, couples will take out the Claddagh ring and move it to their left ring finger with the hearts facing inward to show that two hearts have been joined forever.
While these rings are commonly used in Irish weddings, Claddagh rings make great gifts among good friends as well. The gifting of a Claddagh ring between friends is usually accompanied with the saying "Let love and friendship reign".
By Tim O'Malley for Find unique Celtic jewelry from Ireland such as Celtic wedding rings & Celtic engagement rings.
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