Claddagh Irish Wedding Ring - Symbolic Meaning and History

There are many symbolic meanings that are affiliated with the exchanging of wedding rings during a wedding ceremony. Some choose to express their love and commitment in terms of the wedding ring being circular. With the circular shape of the wedding band they express their love as having no beginning and no end.

Others, during the wedding ceremony, choose to focus on the preciousness and endurance of the metal used to construct the ring. During the wedding vows they draw on that preciousness and equate their marriage and partner to the metal of their wedding rings and that their love will endure through time.

There are many traditions and meanings that can be embraced when the wedding rings are exchanged. Other such traditions that can be reflected are those symbolic meanings that are conveyed from other countries. One such country is Ireland and the meanings held through the exchange of Claddagh Irish wedding rings.

History
The romantic tradition of the Claddagh Irish wedding ring dates back to the turn of the 17th century. Legend has it that a goldsmith by the name of Richard Joyce worked in a village by the name of Galway in Ireland and was in love with a young lady in the village. They were engaged to be married. This young goldsmith's profession and business required travel to far off lands and away from his beloved.

Apparently, while traveling to the West Indies, Joyce was taken into captivity by the Moors. Subsequently, he was sold to an Algerian goldsmith where he was able to practice his goldsmith trade. Eventually, through diplomatic channels, Joyce’s release from slavery was obtained. However, the Algerian goldsmith realized the unique goldsmith talents that Joyce demonstrated and offered his daughter in marriage and a considerable dowry if he would stay and work with his former owner.

True to the power of love and commitment, Richard Joyce declined the offer and sailed back to Galway to his betrothed. To complete the happy ending Joyce married his fiancé who, during all this time, had been waiting for his return.

On their wedding day, the wedding ring that he had crafted, while separated from his love, was part of the wedding ceremony. That wedding ring was the original Claddagh Irish wedding ring. Claddagh was at one time a small fishing village that was situated just beyond the parameters of Galway.

Meaning
The Claddagh Irish wedding ring is rich in symbolism. A Claddagh Irish wedding ring is a band of precious metal that contains a single heart that provides the bridge between two hands. Over the heart lies a crown. In addition the Claddagh Irish wedding ring features interwoven strands that touch the distal ends of the hand and encircle the entire band.

The symbolism of the interwoven strands represents the interconnected lives of the couple. The hands that are joined together represent their relationship. The heart that is the center of the Claddagh Irish wedding ring represents the love that is shared by two and the crown symbolizes timelessness.

Next article: Jewish Wedding Ring - Traditions and Characteristics