Several stories have grown up around the mystique of Claddagh rings. Some are obvious legends due to the mystical nature of the tales, yet all have some elements that are probably true or that can be confirmed by known records or facts. Part of the fun of wearing these rings dating back to the mid 1700s is choosing which version of the origin of Claddagh rings will you tell. The popularity of the rings today cannot be disputed. They are given as friendship rings, as engagement rings and even worn as wedding rings.

Richard Joyce

The connection with Richard Joyce as the originator of the Claddagh ring is probably the most likely and contains the fewest components that are unlikely at best. Young Joyce fell in love with a fellow villager in the fishing community of Claddagh and set sail to the West Indies to seek his fortune so as to be able to afford to marry. On the way, he and his ship were captured by pirates and he was carried into slavery in Algiers where he learned the jewelry trade. While there, he created the Claddagh ring to commemorate his love. Later released, he returned to his true love and presented her with the ring. They married and lived happily ever after.

Margaret Joyce

The Margaret Joyce story is still fairly plausible. She was said to be the widow of a wealthy Spaniard who left her his fortune. The Irish member of the Joyce clan returned to her home grounds where she later met and married the mayor of Galway. The woman used her considerable fortune doing charitable works and helping to upgrade the infrastructure of the area. She was much loved by neighbors and residents. The remaining feature of this Claddagh ring legend becomes a little less believable, because it states that– in recognition of her good works–an eagle flew over and dropped the Claddagh ring in her lap.

The Prince and the Peasant

A third popular legend is that of a prince who fell in love with a commoner and went to her father to ask for her hand in marriage. The father believed that the prince had intentions that were less than honorable and refused to approve. The prince then commissioned the ring for the girl and explained the lovely symbolism in the Claddagh ring. When the father heard these sentiments expressed, he approved the marriage. The Claddagh ring became a wedding ring for the happy couple.

Common Themes

Regardless of the source of the legend or how popular it has become, the legends of the Claddagh ring have common themes. The concept of being true or loyal to a commitment is often mentioned. However, the commitment in the case of most of the legends is to remaining true to one’s love. The Richard Joyce legend for example reflects a fourteen year separation during which he had no reason to think that he would ever see his lady love again. The woman in question had no way to know that he was even alive, yet she remained loyal to his memory.

Originally posted 2010-08-26 07:22:51.

Originally posted 2011-02-15 12:44:38.

• Solid Tungsten & 18k Gold Plated Bands – Wide 9mm for Him Slim 8mm for Her
• Comfort Fit Band
• 9mm width available in sizes 4.5-17; 8mm width available in sizes 5-17
• Shape: Flat with step down, rounded edge
• Finish: High Polished

Product Description
**CONTACT US WITH RING SIZES AFTER PURCHASE**

Another great way to show that your love will last forever with these Tungsten Carbide bands. These rings feature a laser-engraved celtic style design, with double infinity grooves, are an extra wide 9mm in width & slim 8mm in width, with comfort-fit bands. Gorgeous 18k gold plated with Tungsten underlay, highly polished finish combined with detailed cratfmanship make them unforgettable. A flat top with g… More >>

Matching Solid Tungsten 18k Gold Plated Celtic Rings 9mm for Him 8mm for Her His & Hers Ring Set Wedding Bands Engagement Rings

Product Description
High quality stainless steel spinner ring with enamel design…. More >>

CLADDAGH RING – Spinner Ring – IRISH BLESSING CELTIC RING. Inspirational Jewelry – High quality etched stainless steel ring . Rings for men / Rings for Women. SIZE 6

• 8mm Tungsten Wedding Band
• Comfort Fit Band
• His & Hers Matching Set
• Shape: Flat with step down, rounded edge
• Finish: High Polished with Brushed Satin Center

Product Description
**CONTACT US WITH RING SIZES AFTER PURCHASE**

These gorgeous Solid Tungsten Carbide rings are 9mm in width and feature an ultra high polish finish with laser engraved celtic design. These rings are destined to make a statement!

Tungsten Carbide is the hardest of all metals. It is polished to a perfect mirror finish using diamonds, and unlike other metals, it will retain the exact polish for decades to come. In fact, the only way to scratch a tun… More >>

Matching 9mm Tungsten Silver Celtic Rings His & Hers Ring Set Wedding Bands Engagement Rings

What’s up w/ Boston area sports teams running up the score?