Claddagh Connection

Specialties

The Claddagh Connection is an Irish import store specializing in fine Irish jewelry, giftware and clothing. Our goal for over twenty-​one years is to offer the best of Ireland. The store carries 18kt, 14kt, 10kt and sterling silver Claddagh and Celtic designs Our jewelry includes Claddagh and Celtic rings, wedding bands, earrings, bracelets, Celtic crosses, tie tacs, cufflinks and Celtic beads. Many of our gold Claddagh and Celtic rings and pendants are set with precious stones. We carry designer collections and very limited editions of 18kt diamond set pendants, bracelets, earrings, and engagement rings. We also carry designer sapphire, ruby, emerald, and diamond dinner rings. Not to be forgotten — our jewelry for children is just adorable. Our giftware includes Heritage Crystal, Mullingar Pewter, Colm de Ris pottery, and Belleek. Our clothing is by Rita Condron hand knits, Branigan Weavers capes, sweaters and jackets, Shandon hats, Winding River Jackets (USA), and West End Sweaters.

History

Established in 1992.

The Claddagh Connection opened on March 1, 1992 in a small store in Providence, RI. Prior to opening the Claddagh Connection, the owner worked on a part time basis with a jeweler who designed and made jewelry for his own store. He was a mentor to her and taught her a great deal about jewelry making, gem stones, and design. He was also a consultant to her for the first few years of business. He actually convinced her that there was a need for an Irish store that should carry fine jewelry. The Claddagh Connection actually started as an Irish jewelry store. Soon, a few of the Irish jewelry manufacturers were finally convinced to cast in 14kt gold and the wedding band business began to take off. The owner added china and crystal at this point. Customers started asking for clothing a few years later and another section was opened to accommodate their requests. Before long, the space became too small and the store was relocated to Bristol, RI in 2001. It moved to Seekonk, MA in 2011.

Meet the Business Owner

Denise M.

Business Owner

I have always been in the service industry in one form or another. I graduated from the University of Denver and majored in Hotel and Restaurant Management. I worked in that area during my early years after college. After my children were born, I was a stay-​at-​home mom until my youngest was 11. I started working as a travel agent because I could work at home and part time in the office. I was a single mom at that point. As time went on, I started working on a part time basis with the jeweler. I found that I actually liked retail and, in particular, the jewelry end of it. I have always enjoyed the interaction with customers. I had also learned the importance of customer service at a very young age. It just seemed like the right career path for me. As a result, when my youngest went off to college and I had the time to establish a new business, I opened the doors to the Claddagh Connection in 1992. It has been a learning process all along the way. I still learn something new every day.