Even though Claddagh rings are commonly used as wedding rings, it may surprise you that there is a great deal more flexibility in the uses of this particular jewelry item. The ring has also been a sign of friendship over the years as opposed to signifying an undying love and this means there are many reasons to give this ring as a gift. Friendship is something that should never be underestimated and marking a close relationship in such a fashion can be a tremendous way to let someone know that you are thinking of them.
However, the way that the Claddagh rings are worn is very important in symbolising the importance of the ring and whether it is being used as a sign that the wearer is romantically linked. If the ring has been given as a present to a friend or bought by the wearer itself, it should be worn in a special way to signify that the wearer is free of any romantic attachment. The proper way to wear a ring in this situation is to place it on the right ring finger and to ensure that the heart is pointing towards the fingertip. This will signify that the wearer has no romantic links or intentions at that moment in time.
However, if the wearer is romantically involved, the ring should be turned around so that the heart is pointing inwards towards the body and away from the fingertip. This is an old tradition dating back to a more gentle time when the romantic status of a woman was keenly questioned but also adhered to. The modern era may not be so innocent or as formal but many people like to follow the traditions that generations have followed before and there is no doubt that Claddagh rings provide the perfect jewelry to wear a ring to signify a relationship status.
Of course, if Claddagh rings are being worn in the traditional sense, it should be placed on the left hand wedding ring finger. If the ring is placed here it means that the wearer is either engaged or married with the ring acting as a sign of the love between the wearer and her beloved. This ring will have been presented by the wearer's beloved as a sign of their love and of the future they will have together.
The fact that Claddagh rings can be worn by everyone is great news because they are very stylish pieces of jewelry. They do have a special resonance as engagement or wedding rings but the opportunity to wear them, regardless of your relationship status, is of benefit to many women. The ring can be adorned with emeralds, sapphires or diamonds, helping to create a ring that is instantly eye-catching as well as being extremely romantic. No matter what reason for wearing a ring of this nature, you will be sure to feel like the belle of the ball. It's eye catching nature may mean that even if you have no romantic interest in your life at the moment, you may catch the eye of that special someone.
Author Resource:-
The article is written by Catherine Kavanagh from Celtic Rings Ltd. More information on Claddagh rings
inspired by the unrivalled designs of the ancient Irish and Celtic cultures at http://www.celtic-weddingrings.com
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