Traditions

• The Claddagh ring is traditionally passed from mother to daughter. The motto of the ring is "Let love and friendship reign" or "Let love and friendship reign forever". This ring is often used as a wedding ring or engagement ring, and is also considered a faith ring.
  
  

Further Symbolism

• The meaning of this ring goes beyond the mere symbolism of its design. The meanings extend into the manner in which it is worn. For married or engaged persons the ring is worn on the left hand with the crown towards the wearer's heart, this symbolizes that the wearer has found love and that she shall never be parted from it. The crown facing out symbolizes that love is being contemplated. If the ring is worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward it means that love has not been found but is being sought. The crown facing in means that the wearer is not seeking love.
  
  

Royal Nod

• The Claddagh ring has been worn periodically by members of royal families. In the first recorded instance, Queen Victoria began wearing one of these rings. Other royal wearers were King Edward VII, Princess Grace of Monaco and Prince Ranier.
  
  

Origin 1

• This bit of Irish folklore tells of the life of Irishman Richard Joyce. As the tales goes Joyce was captured by pirates and sold into slavery to the Moors. While working in captivity he served a Moorish goldsmith who taught him the skill. He was freed from slavery at the request of King William III. He refused many kind offers for him to stay from his Moorish master including the hand of the master's daughter in marriage and returned to his beloved Ireland. He is said to have crafted the first Claddagh ring upon his return.
  
  

Origin 2

• The second folktale of the ring's origin is a bit more far-fetched. In the 16th century the county of Galway like much of Ireland was ruled by clans, and one of the most influential clans in Galway were the Joyce's. Margaret Joyce was said to have married a wealthy merchant and Spaniard. Upon her husband's death Margaret inherited his wealth. Later she married a mayor of Galway. Her wealth was then used to build bridges in the area and to assist their people. The ring was said to be a providential reward that was dropped in her lap by an eagle.