The legendary Claddagh ring first fathomed in the heart of ancient Ireland, passed down from mother to daughter. And given only to the first to be married. It was highly prized and those that still exist from the past are truly ancient. Hands to show friendship, heart, to show love, and a crown to link them all with loyalty, fidelity, and friendship for life.
A man named Richard Joyce tells of a compelling story where he left his loved one behind to seek work in the west Indies. He left her in Ireland saying that he would marry her when he returns. But on the way his ship was raided by a corsair who sold him into slavery to a Moorish goldsmith. The goldsmith quickly put him to work and he proved to be a quick learner.
Things changed when William III took the throne he demanded that all British citizens in captivity must be released immediately, the government intimidated by William, reluctantly agreed. The gold smith enticed Richard Joyce with many things included half of his wealth and even his daughters hand in marriage. But his love for his Irish wife to be was too great and he returned home to her presenting a cladagh ring, which he made while in captivity
