There is a huge amount of jewelry in the world. Since ancient times, people have been wearing various beads, rings, and amulets. If earlier jewelry had its own meaning, today it is just trinkets that give additional shine and charm to one’s appearance. Few people know that some modern jewelry has a history and can tell something about the owner. For example, the Claddagh rings, which is what we decided to talk about today. What it is, how to wear it correctly, the history of origin - we will look at everything in this publication.
Claddagh Rings: Legend of Origin
In fact, there are many versions of the origin of this decoration. But we all love stories about love, so we invite you to get acquainted with the most romantic and popular one.
An extraordinary story happened many years ago. In Ireland there lived a young man who was madly in love with a girl. He was not a rich man and wanted his wife and future children to not need anything after the wedding. The young man decided to go to the West Indies, where he could earn a fortune. To realize his idea, he had to say goodbye to all his relatives, to the region in which he grew up, and to his bride, who promised to wait for him, no matter how much time passed.
This young man is Richard Joyce, and, going to unfamiliar lands, he did not yet know what fate had in store for him. The ship on which he set off had not yet reached Claddagh when it was attacked by Algerian sea robbers. In those days, pirates ruled the blue expanses, and many people died in the battle, thousands of merchants lost everything they earned. The robbers did not kill Richard, but captured him and then sold him into slavery.
Joyce's master was a Moor, a jeweler. The young man knew nothing about jewelry, did not know about jewelry making, but his hands were skillful, and soon Richard was able to master the craft and became a real master.
Happy ending to the story
Richard Joyce mastered jewelry making perfectly, he lived well, but longing for his native land and his bride sometimes drove him crazy. One day he decided to express all his feelings by creating a ring. It was an incredibly beautiful decoration: in the center was a heart, decorated with a crown, carefully held by two hands. This is how the first gold Claddagh ring was born.
In 1689, a treaty was concluded between King William III of Orange and the Moors. The ruler was able to ensure that all the inhabitants of his country who were enslaved and survived were able to return home and were freed.
The jeweler did not want to lose the wonderful master in the person of Richard Joyce, he begged him to stay, even offered to marry him to his daughter, leaving the jewelry workshop as a dowry. But the young man could not forget about his homeland, dear to the girl’s heart, and sailed home.
As it turned out, the bride was waiting for him, as promised. Soon the lovers were able to get married, they had a strong family. Richard continued to do his favorite and profitable business - he opened his own jewelry workshop. Since then, Claddagh rings have become popular in Ireland.
Is this legend true or not? There is reliable information that Richard Joyce actually existed, he was a jeweler and lived in the small village of Claddagh, in the west of Ireland.
Other versions of origin
Many believe that Richard Joyce's touching love story is romantic, but it is unlikely that it could have made the ring so popular throughout Ireland. Many are inclined to think that these are Celtic symbols that symbolize the following:
- heart - humanity;
- crown - life.
The hands belong to the Celtic deities - the mother of the gods Dana and the all-father Dagda. The interpretation is very interesting, but has no evidence. But clergy believe that the Claddagh ring symbolizes the Trinity, and the heart in the center represents humanity.
There is also a legend that tells of a king who fell in love with a commoner and even married her. He found love, but lost honor. According to legend, this brought all sorts of troubles to the state. The desperate ruler committed suicide. His subjects cut out his heart and placed it in his hands (romantic Celtic traditions!). Although it is possible that the king was ritually killed.
According to another version, the ring symbolized the love of subjects for their king. And the Celtic rulers, taking the vassal oath, presented them with a ring that communicated love and devotion to the crown. Since the queen also makes an oath to her husband, she was also given a ring at the wedding. Soon a similar custom spread among ordinary people. By the way, many royal families still prefer to get married with the Claddagh ring.
What is the first thing a waiter notices when you enter a cafe?
Astronomers have found the reason why aurora appears on Jupiter
How Crimea has changed over the past 7 years: 7 global transformations of the peninsula
Among the Irish, it was traditionally passed down from generation to generation through the female line. This was largely due to the difficult financial situation of many families. However, the tradition continues today. By the way, rings that are passed down from generation to generation are amulets. They are filled with the energy of Rod.
Spread around the world
Claddagh rings became famous throughout the world many years after the death of the master who created the design. They first came outside the borders of Ireland between 1845 and 1849. At this time, many residents of the country began to sail away in search of a better life in other countries. This time was the potato famine in Ireland, and everyone who had the opportunity left their native lands. Most people headed to America, which was then flourishing, and everyone believed that there would be an ideal life there. Thus, Claddagh rings became especially popular. They were mainly used for wedding ceremonies, and even today some newlyweds choose them.
Engagement
This is the most important purpose of the jewelry described. Claddagh wedding rings are usually engraved in the Irish language: Gra, Dilseacht agus Cairdeas. Translated into Russian it sounds like “love, loyalty, friendship.” These rings are mainly made from white gold.
There are real ritual puzzle rings. Such Claddagh symbols of love and marriage consist of three separate parts, which only together can display the complete picture. At the moment of exchanging rings, one is put on by the bride, the second by the groom, and the third goes to the witness. The strongest connection was formed between the owners of the rings and was maintained until death. It has long been believed that with such rings the most prosperous and strong marriages are created. Previously, such Claddagh rings were very popular.
Irish ring in modern times
Claddagh rings are still popular today. They are worn to indicate Irish ancestry, Celtic culture, and simply as decoration. About 200 Claddagh rings were found in the ruins of the New York Twin Towers.
Even the Claddagh Ring Museum is open, which is considered the smallest in Europe, but has the largest souvenir shop. There are jewelry from the workshops of famous jewelers. The tiniest ring is on display - it fits on the tip of the little finger. Rings are still found during archaeological excavations. The symbolism of Claddagh rings is also used in other jewelry and reproduced on various souvenirs. This ring is considered a strong talisman of love and friendship.
For friends
These are Fede rings, a popular variation of the Claddagh rings. Some are sure that they were the first to appear, and then those that we describe today.
The decoration is made in the form of two hands that are connected by a handshake. Most often they are decorated with a crown, but they can also be found without it.
These types of rings are usually exchanged between good old friends who have gone through many years hand in hand, faced difficulties, and have always supported each other. Such people have many common memories - joyful and sad. If you have a friend like this, exchange these Claddagh rings. Silver is the most popular material for making friendship rings. Firstly, this metal is much cheaper than gold and platinum. Secondly, many associate silver with the pieces of silver for which Judas sold his Teacher. The Claddagh silver ring is a symbol of the fact that this friendship is forever, it can neither be bought nor sold, and there will never be betrayal.
Varieties of Claddagh rings
The design of the ring underwent various changes as it spread. Thus, the Dublin version does not have a crown. It is especially popular among the Irish who support Irish independence.
Rice. 2. Dublin Claddagh Ring
The Fede ring is a traditional ring of the Romans and Greeks in the shape of two hands joined in a handshake, also considered by some experts to be a type of Claddagh ring.
Rice. 3. Fede's ring
Of the early versions, there were rings decorated with a miter crown. But, as a rule, such a design is not used now.
Dublin version
It is also called the Fenian ring. Most Irish people who support independence choose this variation. The ring itself is very similar to the original Claddagh ring design. There are two hands, but there are also two hearts. There is no crown in such rings.
This decoration suggests that a person is independent, has the right to choose, no one can force him to do something against his will, to give up what he wants.
Of course, these are not all design variations. There are many types of Claddagh rings, they can be seen in the museum dedicated to these jewelry. There you can really be amazed by the magnificence of the jewelry masterpieces.
Signs associated with an engagement ring
Lovers often observe traditions and worry about signs.
Photo of an engagement ring for a marriage proposal
Each person independently decides whether to believe the signs on which romantic and future marital relationships theoretically depend.
The most common signs are those associated with rings . Signs have existed since ancient times:
- rings must be made from the same precious material. It is believed that the surface of the decoration should be smooth so that the life of a married couple is ideal and smooth.
- Before and after the wedding, people should not be allowed to try on their rings . Otherwise, personal happiness will be given away.
- After the newlyweds have exchanged rings , you cannot take away the empty box. This can only be done by a person who is not yet married and is not planning a wedding in the near future.
- If the ring falls out of your hands before being put on your finger, you can expect separation or impending separation. This can be avoided by threading a white thread and wearing jewelry with it. After the wedding ceremony, it is important to burn the thread for the person whose ring fell.
- On the wedding day, for the bride to wear other jewelry on her hand.
- If a woman has lost her engagement ring, you can expect a divorce in the very near future.
- You cannot use your parents' or grandmothers' rings or buy them from antique stores. The wedding and engagement ring must be purchased independently from a jewelry store. If the jewelry is passed on by a relative, you may end up with personal problems, misfortune or illness.
Such signs are often taken into account. This may determine how happy the lovers will be with each other in the future.
It is believed that a woman's engagement ring should look special and match the bride's .
You can choose an exquisite decoration that will certainly be appreciated:
Gold ring with diamonds, SL (price on the link)
The right ring will definitely become an important decoration for the bride and groom.
Interesting ideas
Jewelry craftsmen tirelessly offer many new types of jewelry. Sometimes a popular design is tweaked a little to create amazing products. Thus, newlyweds are offered rings made of white gold, with a precious stone in the center of the heart. Most often, the insert is a diamond or ruby.
There are Claddagh rings where the entire heart is created from a single gemstone. The most popular options are rubies, emeralds, sapphires and diamonds.
Which ring is better?
A special occasion requires a special product - with its help, a man speaks of his one and only love. And this is not necessarily a massive ring with a huge diamond, although such a stereotype exists. The decoration does not have to shine with stones, and not even be made of gold or platinum, although most often feelings are demonstrated with the help of precious metals . There are budget options, backed by tradition. So, they gave a ring from:
- silver - as a talisman against dark forces;
- copper, symbolizing fertility;
- brass is another protector from the evil eye.
There is also no strict regulation regarding precious inserts . But if a girl loves emeralds, topazes or rubies, then an engagement ring with her favorite stone will delight her. Options with semi-precious stones are possible: cubic zirconia in the sun will shine no worse than a diamond!
The best ring is one that the bride will proudly wear until the wedding, emphasizing her happy “unfreedom . Of course, for this she must like it. And, of course, fit into her style: for a fan of the classics, choose a discreet option with a small pebble or a scattering of stones; Art Nouveau style will require a special ring. There are also connoisseurs of red “Soviet” gold. If she has a lot of designer items, then you should look for a ring of the same brand.
How to wear a Claddagh jewelery on your finger?
Most Irish people do not even suspect that there are any rules for wearing a ring. The thing is that there are no rules as such; they were invented quite recently, but have already spread quite well, and many people adhere to them. So, if you want to buy a Claddagh ring, you need to remember what it can mean in individual cases.
If on the right hand:
- if the sharp tip of the heart is directed upward, that is, towards the nail, then we can judge that the heart of the owner of the decoration is completely free;
- if the point of the heart is directed downwards - to the base of the finger, then the owner of the ring has great love, no matter whether it is mutual or not.
If on the left hand:
- point to the nail - the owner of the ring is divorced or widowed, he has no partner;
- point down - this indicates that the person is happy in marriage, he has found his soul mate.
How much should the ring cost?
Exactly as much as will not ruin the future spouse, even if he strives to emphasize his wealth . As a rule, brides are aware of the financial affairs of their grooms, and a fairly modest ring, presented with touching attention, will be no less happy than an expensive solitaire. A gift that is too expensive can be intimidating, especially if the groom clearly has more money than the bride or her family.
However, if you have the means and desire, you can not be ashamed of your generosity, if it does not carry a possessive overtone.
Product price
Claddagh rings can be given as a sign of friendship or eternal love and fidelity. The cost of jewelry directly depends on the material from which it is made, on the sample, if it is gold, on the weight, the work of the master and on the inserts (if any). It is not customary to talk about the price of the Claddagh ring, much less ask about it. If you were given such a product, then be sure that you are really dear to the person, he will never betray you, your friendship or love (maybe both together, which will be just wonderful) will remain forever. It doesn’t matter whether the ring costs a thousand or three hundred dollars - it should become priceless for the owner.
Stones by zodiac sign
Astrologers believe that if you choose a stone that matches your zodiac sign, it will serve as an amulet. The mineral is not chosen by chance.
Stones-amulets receive vibrations only from your constellation. They take powerful energy from space, then accumulate it within themselves.
Cosmic energy will help attract health, success, and wealth. If you couldn’t find “your” stone, then follow the general recommendations for jewelry for your index fingers. As mentioned above, choose rings with blue minerals.
Expert advice:
- To get rid of shyness, wear gold jewelry on your right finger.
- The mineral responsible for professional and financial success will help you run a successful business.
- Decorate your left hand when you want to develop your creative potential.
- To develop leadership qualities, determination, and management skills, wear rings on your index finger not occasionally, but constantly. There are hundreds of points on the fingers that are activated with the help of jewelry.
