Irish Symbols and Their Meanings
The Irish people have a culture rich in traditions and symbols, and today those symbols are often found in rings, coins, flags, jewelry, and even tattoos. But exactly where do they come from, and what do they mean? A little research turns up a lot of information about these images, from history and legends to unexpected places in which they appear. Here are just a few of the fascinating images and symbols that permeate Irish culture:
Originating in the fishing village of Claddagh, near the city of Galway, the Claddagh is a ring traditionally given to a lover for an engagement or wedding, or as a symbol of affection. It was first produced during the reign of William and Mary in the late 1600s and continues to be used as a wedding ring by many modern couples, especially those with Irish heritage. The heart, hands, and crown of its distinctive design stand for love, friendship, and loyalty respectively, and the ring can be worn in different ways to indicate the relationship status of the wearer. According to one tradition, a Claddagh worn on the right hand with the point of the heart facing down, toward the end of the finger indicates a single wearer, while turned around, it signifies romantic attachment. Worn on the ring finger of the left hand, the ring indicates engagement or marriage.
The Claddagh is a descendant of an ancient Roman tradition of giving fede rings or "faith" rings to represent commitment or loyalty, a tradition gave rise to the broad use of engagement and wedding rings in Western culture. The term "Claddagh ring" was coined in the 1840s, when early accounts suggest that it was frequently used as an heirloom wedding ring, traditionally passed from mother to eldest daughter upon her wedding day. However, this seems questionable, given that most Claddagh rings produced before 1840 seem to have been made for men. Today, the ring may be found in many different styles, with more delicate, jeweled varieties for women and thicker, engraved Claddagh rings for men.
The origins of the Celtic cross are not entirely certain. Popular legend holds that it was introduced to Ireland by St. Patrick or St. Declan in order to explain the importance of the cross to Irish pagans. In this origin story, the circle surrounding the center of the cross was supposed explain the importance of Jesus' sacrifice by linking the cross to the life-giving sun. However, art historians have recently disputed this story, finding it more likely that the circle represented a victor's wreath, as seen in some English designs from the period.
How To Wear A Claddagh Ring - Bookshelf
Story of the Claddagh Ring, Celtic Ireland Series
Though they still served as badges of office, their use as talismans or ... In the lore of our Claddagh ring the significance of the way it was worn is ...The Claddagh Ring
They know what the Claddagh ring stands for and they embrace it wholly — male and female. Women wear it as a gift from a boyfriend, a mother, a grandmother, ...Ireland, The Culture
Single women wear Claddagh rings on their right hand, with the heart facing away from them. When they find friendship or love, they turn the ring to face ...The Unofficial Guide to Ireland
If you buy a Claddagh ring in one of Galway's many souvenir shops, be careful how you wear it. When worn with the heart facing inward, the ring indicates ...Ireland Guide
But beware -there is a right and a wrong way to wear a Claddagh ring! If your heart is taken (by a sweetheart, fiancee, or spouse), then the bottom of the ...Casual Info Directory
How To Wear The Claddagh Ring
How To Wear The Claddagh Ring. Claddagh rings were originally worn in the village of The Claddagh in Galway, Ireland and their traditional purpose ...
Wearing The Claddagh Ring, How To Wear Claddagh Rings
Which is the right way to wear a Claddagh ring. The way you wear your claddagh ring shows your status and relationships. ... How should a Claddagh ring be worn? ...
How to Wear a Claddagh Ring - wikiHow
However, the way you wear your Claddagh ring can show whether you're single, or are ... To show that you are in a relationship, wear the Claddagh ring with the heart facing ...
How to wear a Claddagh Ring.
Learn how to wear the Irish Claddagh Ring. Irish Claddagh rings have meaning from dating to the Irish wedding. Perfect as a Claddagh engagement ring or Irish wedding ring.
How to Wear a Claddagh Ring | eHow.com
How to Wear a Claddagh Ring. Claddagh rings are a type of Irish jewelry that depicts two hands holding a heart with a crown on top it. All of these symbols have ...