Happy St Patrick's Day to everyone who, like me, has a connection with Ireland.
If you ask who St Patrick is and what his contribution to Ireland was, the most usual answer is that he 'drove the snakes out of Ireland'. Just a legend of course. He's also credited with using the shamrock's three leaves as an illustration of the Holy Trinity and a slightly lesser known one which has him preaching around Ireland carrying an ash wood walking stick, which, on one occasion he stuck into the earth while he was preaching to a congregation, who took so long to assimilate his message that the stick grew into an Ash tree. This place is now called Aspatria (Ash of Patrick)
But actually my post is to focus on another Irish character who left behind a more tangible legend in the shape of the Claddagh ring. Lots of people own one, my husband and I included, as we wear them as wedding rings.
It's said that The original Claddagh Rings have been dated back to the 17th century. from the little village of Claddagh in County Galway. There are several stories that claim the origin of the ring, but this is the most popular (and possibly most plausible).
It is said that Richard Joyce was a silversmith working in the 1700’s. His initials (maker’s mark) are on the earliest known surviving Claddagh ring.
The story goes that Joyce was captured by Algerians and sold on as an indentured apprentice to a Moorish goldsmith. The goldsmith needed an apprentice and noticing that Joyce seemed to possess talent, he taught him the trade.
In 1689, Joyce was released when William III sent an ambassador to Algeria to demand the release of all British subjects. Upon hearing this, his captor offered Joyce half of his wealth and his only daughter in marriage to remain in Algeria.
Joyce declined the offer, eager to return to his native Galway. On returning to Galway, Joyce quickly established himself as a goldsmith. It was during this time, he's thought to have created the first Claddagh ring. (It's pictured above in case you aren't familiar with the design)
These are the ways to wear one.
Right hand with the point of the heart facing towards the hand: The heart is turned in towards the wearer meaning their heart is taken and they are in a relationship.
Right hand with the point of the heart away from the hand: The heart is turned out away from the wearer meaning their heart is open to love and they are not in a relationship.
Left hand with the point of the heart pointing away from hand: the wearer is engaged or in a lifelong partnership.
Left hand with the point of the heart pointing to the hand: the wearer is married!
Well, that's the tradition. Of course you can wear your Claddagh in any way you choose! And nowadays the symbols of the Claddagh turn up in all sorts of pieces of jewellery.
Have a great St Patrick's Day 🍀☘️🍀
Photo origin: Unknown
Quotation for Tuesday 19th May 2020
I love this poem.....
Bragging about my moms cooking skills and a sad story