The Claddagh Ring is Ireland's most romantic tradition. Claddagh was a small fishing village in County Galway. The first Claddagh ring was made by Richard Joyce in 1690.He had been held in slavery in Tunis, where he became a goldsmith. When released, he returned to Ireland and crafted the ring. The design quickly became popular and soon spread to all of Ireland.
When the ring is worn on the right hand with the crown facing out, it means the wearer is "fancy free"
On the right hand with the crown facing in means the wearer is "spoken for"
On the left hand it indicates the wearer is happily married.
In general the design is a wish for friendship and love to prevail.
