Claddagh rings are traditional rings that originated in a fishing village Claddagh in Ireland. These rings were given as tokens of romantic love thus usually worn as wedding rings. It was not until the 18th and 19th centuries that this ring evolved from marginal jewelry to a well-recognized piece. Jewelers from the city of Galway started to market it outside of Ireland in the early 19th century. In 1849, a ring was even presented to Queen Victoria. Goldsmiths in Dublin began to manufacture rings too, making an important contribution to its recognition in the 20th century. A Claddagh ring can be distinguished by its simple yet distinct design. It features a crowned heart at the center that symbolizes love and loyalty and held by two hands depicting friendship. The design of a Claddagh ring can otherwise be interpreted as love and loyalty held strongly by friendship. This ring can be worn to signify the wearer’s romantic status or the lack of it. Worn on the right hand with the heart pointing away from the wearer suggests a lack of a romantic relationship. On the left hand with the heart still pointing away, it shows the wearer’s romantic engagement. A wearer’s married status is implied when the ring is worn with the heart pointing otherwise.
Recently, Claddagh rings have been popular in the market. They have even been featured in Hollywood films such as The Doors and Leap Year. This type of ring has also been the center of a constant plot in the TV series, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Claddagh rings come in a variety of materials and designs. Gold, white gold, silver, and other precious metals have been manufactured for modern consumers. Designs with inlaid precious and semiprecious stones have also been a favorite. An example is a Claddagh opal ring that features a heart-shaped opal stone in the center. Opal is a good choice for an accent stone in Claddagh rings, especially if given to someone born in October since opal is the month’s birthstone. An opal ring also exudes a distinct style and class for anyone who wears it. Having a Claddagh ring for personal use or as a gift for a friend is not only just buying a fashion jewelry piece. You have in your hands a 300-year-old tradition of friendship, loyalty, and love to cherish for a long time. After all, a symbol that lasted 300 years can last yet another more. It is very best jewelry item to wear. There are alot of customers who like it very much. Claddagh ring has its own beauty. Many people still considered it as sign of beauty and standard. From my point of view it is very beautiful and now many more design invented to increase its beauty. With both of your hands, give your heart to someone special and crown them with your loyalty. Claddagh rings are a beautiful symbol of love and affection for others. I suugest you to must try it this rings.
