Silver Claddagh Stud Earrings - ESS-507

• .925 Sterling silver • Nickel free • With sterling silver studs, for pierced ears only • Approximately 3/8" tall Traditionally, Claddaghs are expressions of love and friendship. Although the symbol is most often found in finger rings, in this case it has been beautifully re-imagined as these lovely little sterling silver claddagh earrings. Like most traditional symbols, the origin of the Claddagh has been obscured by the passage of time. It is almost certainly from the Irish fishing village of Claddagh, near Galway. Some stories say that a Claddagh ring was found on the hand of a sailor of a Spanish galleon that went down near the Irish coast. Others say the design was brought back from the Crusades by a young man captured by the Saracens. Whatever its history, the Claddagh has become an enduring symbol of affection. The heart in the center of the design represents love, the hands that surround it represent friendship, and the crown at the top is symbolic of fidelity. For those whose hearts yearn for the Emerald Isle, this lovely pair of claddagh earrings helps forge a connection that transcends both time and distance. How do I pronounce "Claddagh"? "Clah-dah" is pretty close, but purists add a little choky, guttural sound at the "gh" that really doesn't have a counterpart in English. Are claddaghs always gifted from a lover to their sweetheart? Often, but not always. It's also common for such jewelry to be handed down from a parent to a child. That being said, never let tradition stand in the way of your desires! There's absolutely nothing wrong with getting these beautiful claddagh earrings for yourself.