The Claddagh Ring

The Claddagh Ring

If you are on tours of Ireland why not buy yourself a real piece of Irish history….a Claddagh Ring !!

According to legend the ring was the creation of Richard Joyce who was captured as a slave from the fishing village of Claddagh , County Galway in the 16th century. In captivity he trained as a goldsmith and proved so good he was given his freedom.

On his return home he designed the symbol of two hands cradling a crowned heart. Worn on the right hand , heart inwards , it shows the heart is unoccupied. On the same hand , turned out , it shows a romantic tie is being considered. On the left hand , heart inwards , it announces that you and your lover are inseparable.

One of the best places to buy these rings on Ireland tours is actually Galway though they are available all over Ireland.