The heart, hands, and crown of the fabled Irish Claddagh ring symbolize love, loyalty and friendship. The village of Claddagh on the west coast of Ireland, near Galway, was the home of Richard Joyce, who was carried off by Algerian pirates in the seventeenth century. In North Africa Joyce was trained as a goldsmith. ... He was eventually freed and returned home to his faithful sweetheart. The Fede ring with clasped hands was a traditional symbol of faithfulness. Joyce fashioned a new version for his love, incorporating the heart and crown. This style of ring became a local favorite and eventually gained popularity all across Ireland and around the world.   The symbolism of the Claddagh is now used in Claddagh pendants and Claddagh Earrings as well.