Claddagh Ring - Simple or Complicated

The concept of the Claddagh ring is quite simple, but the implementation of the ring can be quite complicated. The simple part of the concept is that the ring represents loyalty to a relationship. The relationship can be between two friends, a parent and child or husband and wife. The presentation and acceptance of the Claddagh ring means that the two people involved are committed to the strength of the relationship. In design, these rings are often quite detailed or complicated. They can consist of interwoven bands or strands on which is placed clasped hands or strings of gems. The crown can be quite elaborate with finely detailed designs.

Care of Your Ring

Caring for the Claddagh ring should be done with the same attention to gentle treatment as you would give to the care of any fine jewelry piece. If the ring contains a gemstone, particular attention must be given to avoid chipping or breaking the stone. The ring can be placed in a solution of detergent and warm water. Follow the soak with a clear water rinse and dry the ring gently with a soft, lint free cloth. Periodically, you will want to take the Claddagh ring to a jeweler who can check the security of the settings and use ultrasound cleaning techniques.

Symbolism of the Crown

In the Claddagh ring, the crown is a major part of the symbolism. The crown of course, represents loyalty--loyalty to the love and relationship represented by the heart symbol of the ring. However, over the years, one version of the ring states that the crown represents the loyalty of the wearer to the English crown. The Fenian version of the ring is designed without the crown, but is less popular than the triple symbol version.

Celebrity Wearers

Many celebrities have chosen to wear Claddagh rings either as a engagement type ring or a wedding ring. In some instances, the rings they choose are off the shelf, so to speak, other couples elect to have matching Claddagh rings specially designed for them. Specially designed rings may include gemstones as part of the design or may be less detailed. For example, Jim Morrison of The Doors and Patricia Kennealy, Irish American author exchanged Claddagh rings at their handfasting celebration. The rings are often found in movie and television fiction, usually to indicate a change in the relationship between two characters.

Global Influence

Claddagh rings have spread from usage in a relatively small area of Ireland to world wide knowledge of the jewelry and what it signifies. Many of the rings traveled from Ireland to the United States, thanks to the mass exodus due to the Potato Famine in Ireland. The rings are popular throughout Europe and in many parts of the United States, particularly those where there are strong Irish roots in a city or neighborhood. Thanks to the global nature of the internet, these rings can be ordered from reputable dealers at competitive prices even if you don't live in a big city.

Claddagh Rings are a part of Irish Culture. Visit Irish Indeed for Irish Claddagh Rings and other great Irish Gifts.
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