Affordable Wedding Rings

Traditional Irish Claddagh Rings

By Lance Thorington

 When walking around Ireland, or anywhere recently, it is common to glimpse the gold band of the traditional Irish Claddagh ring. The hand held heart resting beneath the crown is said to be a symbol of friendship, love and loyalty. A gift passed from friend to friend, between lovers, and through the family. But what are its origins?


Although there are more than one legend of the origin of the Irish Claddagh ring, the one which is usually believed is the story of Richard Joyce and his love. A member of the Joyce clan of Galway, he sailed to the West Indies, but on the way Joyce and his fellow sailors were captured and kept imprisoned as slaves.

Over fourteen years it was Joyce's job to work alongside a goldsmith. During his years of working Joyce supposedly designed the traditional Irish Claddagh ring. He had left his love back in Ireland and she is said to have been waiting for him. Finally, as William III ascended to the thrown, he called for the release of the British prisoners. Joyce was free to return home.

Before Joyce's return to Ireland, his 'owner' offered him wealth, and his daughter in marriage. Joyce said no, opting to return to Ireland and his long awaited love. After waiting for so long she was glad of his return, and married him instantly. It is said he gave her the ring as a symbol of their love. Due to this legend the tradition of the giving of the Irish Claddagh ring to lovers is obvious.

When Ireland was struck with the potato famine, many of the Irish families travelled to America, taking with them the Irish Claddagh ring, which has now become a family heirloom. The ring is now passed down through the female line, or to males to pass to their love.

As the ring is a tradition of the Irish families, it may be a gift between lovers and married couples, which ahs been passed down through the family. It shows a connection to the family, as well as a connection between the two who will join together at the wedding.

In recent times, the Claddagh ring has been used as a wedding band at pagan wedding ceremonies, often called a hand-fasting. The hand-fasting, as with more traditional wedding ceremonies, joins two people together in love and friendship, and so the Claddagh ring has become a popular symbol, rather than a plain gold band.

Lance Thorington is a professional publisher and writes for various web sites. Read more about the Irish Claddagh Ring and its meaning at http://www.irish-claddaghring.com/

Jewelry-Epitome of a Bride

By Sharon s. Reid

 Wedding day... The most beautiful day in a womans life, the day she wishes to stand out of the rest. The day when she gets to look like a princess, with her prince charming; her knight in shining armor, by her side, celebrating their love and compassion for each other together. Beautiful indeed; but for this blissful dream to come true, there goes in a lot of effort.


To look like a princess, you need to get everything right; your hair, your gown, your make-up and most importantly your jewelry. In recent times jewelry has become an indispensable part of a brides ensemble. Be it a simple pearl necklace, or a beautiful pair of earrings, or even a diamond tiara; jewelry sure add that special something to your wedding ensemble.

Selecting the right kind of jewelry largely depends on the bridal gown; whether it is strapless or has a low neckline, or a gown with a high neck. In case of strapless gowns and gowns with low necklines; necklace and earrings will complete the look. In case of gowns with high necks, a beautiful pair of earrings will do wonders.

So how to decide what jewelry will go best with your bridal couture? It doesnt really require any sort of expertise. Just a few simple tips will help.
1. You can never go wrong with pearls. They are the ideal choice when it comes to traditional wedding jewelry. They are the epitome of love and purity and go well with the white and pink gowns. They are simple and serene, yet adding that air of elegance to your look.
2. Bling it on! Diamonds will definitely make you shine like no other. Scintillating diamond jewelry will definitely make you look like a zillion bucks. Just remember not to go overboard with a lot of diamonds. Keep it simple, classy and glamorous.
3. Bracelets can be worn with sleeveless or half sleeved or even on gloves.
4. Make sure to choose the right earring: if you have a narrow face, then dangling earrings will suit you the best. If a round face then button earrings should be your ideal choice. And in case you are not adorning a necklace, then a statement making earrings will definitely add that special spark.
5. If you wish to look like a beautiful princess, tiara is your perfect accessory.
6. Your engagement ring will show your love and commitment for your spouse.

Now that you know all about bridal jewelry, one last advice- always remember to keep it simple and stylish, because when it comes to bridal jewelry, less is more!

Sharon Reid writes on various subjects from the world of jewelry and shows special interest in topics pertaining to diamond jewelry, gemstone jewelry, gold and pearl jewelry. She has over 15 years of experience and now writes exclusive articles for B2CJewels.com.