In the sixteenth century, an Irish sailor named Richard Joyce was sold into slavery by Algerian pirates. Richard, who was to be married the same week he was captured, was sold to a wealthy Moorish goldsmith who taught Richard the trade. While he apprenticed for the goldsmith, he designed a ring that he hoped to eventually give his fiancee back home. Mourning for the love of his life, Richard was able to escape and returned to Ireland where he and his fiancee were finally married. Over the years, the design became extremely popular as an engagement ring for couples around the world.