The March birthstone, traditionally represented by aquamarine, is often showcased within the iconic design of the Claddagh ring – a symbol deeply rooted in Irish heritage. This combination embodies not only the serene beauty of the gemstone but also the timeless values of love, loyalty, and friendship. This article will explore the history and symbolism of the Claddagh ring, the properties of the aquamarine (or its common substitute, cubic zirconia), and the significance of this pairing as a cherished piece of jewelry for those born in March.
History and Lore of the Claddagh Ring
The Claddagh ring’s origins are traced back to the fishing village of Claddagh, located just outside Galway, Ireland, in the 17th century. While the exact beginnings are debated, the ring’s design – featuring two hands clasping a heart topped with a crown – quickly became a powerful emblem. The hands represent friendship, the heart symbolizes love, and the crown signifies loyalty.
The ring’s popularity spread beyond Claddagh, becoming a symbol of Irish identity and a token of affection. It was, and continues to be, used to signify relationship status. The way the ring is worn communicates a specific message: worn on the right hand with the heart facing outwards, it indicates the wearer is single and open to love; worn on the right hand with the heart facing inwards signifies the wearer is in a relationship; and worn on the left hand with the heart facing inwards denotes marriage or engagement. This tradition provides a visual language of the heart, adding layers of meaning to the already symbolic design.
The Claddagh ring’s enduring appeal is also linked to its association with a legend involving Richard Joyce, a Galway man who was captured by pirates and sold into slavery. While enslaved, he learned the art of goldsmithing and, upon regaining his freedom, returned to Galway and crafted the first Claddagh ring for his beloved. This story, though potentially apocryphal, adds a romantic element to the ring’s history.
Aquamarine: The Gemstone of March
Aquamarine, the gemstone most associated with March, is represented in many Claddagh rings, though often as a simulated stone. The name “aquamarine” itself derives from the Latin words for seawater, aqua and marina, aptly describing its captivating blue-green hues. The stone is believed to evoke the tranquility of the sea and symbolize calm, clarity, and hope.
However, the rings detailed in the provided sources frequently feature cubic zirconia as a more affordable alternative to natural aquamarine. Cubic zirconia, while a synthetic gemstone, offers a brilliant sparkle and closely mimics the appearance of aquamarine. The heart-shaped cubic zirconia is typically 5mm x 5mm in size, as noted in one source. The use of cubic zirconia allows for wider accessibility to the Claddagh birthstone ring without compromising the aesthetic appeal.
Gemological Properties and Materials
The Claddagh rings described are primarily crafted from sterling silver, hallmarked in Dublin Castle to verify its authenticity. The silver is often described as having a “silver-tone” finish. The rings typically weigh around 2.5 to 4.5 grams, with slight variations depending on the size and design. The face width of the ring, measured from the bottom of the heart to the top of the crown, is approximately 10.1 mm, while the shank width is around 2 mm.
The primary gemstone component is either aquamarine or, more commonly, cubic zirconia. Aquamarine possesses a Mohs hardness of 7.5-8, making it relatively durable, while cubic zirconia has a hardness of 8.5. Both materials are susceptible to scratching, but cubic zirconia is generally more resistant. The rings may also feature additional cubic zirconia stones set within the band, enhancing their brilliance.
A table summarizing the key properties of the materials used is provided below:
| Material | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Color | Luster |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Silver | Ag (92.5% Silver) | 2.5-3 | Silver-white | Metallic |
| Aquamarine | Be3Al2Si6O18 | 7.5-8 | Blue-green | Vitreous |
| Cubic Zirconia | ZrO2 | 8.5 | Colorless (can be dyed) | Adamantine |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond the core symbolism of the Claddagh – love, loyalty, and friendship – the aquamarine (or its substitute) adds another layer of meaning. Aquamarine is believed to possess healing properties, protecting against liver, stomach, and heart diseases. The stone’s aqua and turquoise hues are thought to have a soothing effect, promoting communication, strength, confidence, and emotional healing. It is also associated with creativity, health, perception, courage, and hope.
The combination of the Claddagh’s symbolism and the aquamarine’s perceived powers makes the March birthstone Claddagh ring a particularly meaningful gift. It represents not only affection and commitment but also a wish for the wearer’s well-being and happiness.
Purchasing and Care
The Claddagh birthstone rings are readily available from various retailers, including those specializing in Irish jewelry. Purchasing directly from the manufacturer, such as ShanOre, offers benefits like fast shipping, outstanding customer care, a quality warranty, and a free premium gift box. Many retailers offer 30-day return policies, providing peace of mind for buyers.
To maintain the beauty of the ring, regular cleaning is recommended. Sterling silver can tarnish over time, so gentle polishing with a silver cloth will help restore its shine. Cubic zirconia and aquamarine can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstones and the silver setting. It is also advisable to remove the ring before engaging in activities that could cause scratches or damage.
Wearing the Claddagh Ring: A Tradition of Meaning
As previously mentioned, the way a Claddagh ring is worn carries significant meaning. The tradition dictates that single individuals wear the ring on their right hand with the heart pointing outwards, signifying their openness to love. Those in a relationship wear it on the right hand with the heart pointing inwards, indicating their heart is already taken. Finally, married individuals wear the ring on the left hand with the heart pointing inwards, symbolizing their commitment and enduring love. This tradition adds a personal and meaningful dimension to the wearing of the ring, making it more than just a piece of jewelry.
Conclusion
The March birthstone Claddagh ring is a beautiful and meaningful piece of jewelry that seamlessly blends Irish heritage, gemstone symbolism, and enduring values. Whether featuring genuine aquamarine or the sparkling brilliance of cubic zirconia, the ring represents love, loyalty, friendship, and a wish for the wearer’s well-being. Its rich history, coupled with the tradition of how it is worn, makes it a cherished gift and a timeless symbol of connection. The Claddagh ring, particularly when adorned with the March birthstone, is a testament to the enduring power of symbolism and the beauty of Irish craftsmanship.