What is a Claddagh Ring

Âsometimes worn purely as a cultural symbol of
The design elements common to all Claddagh ringsIreland rather than as a sign of affection for a
are two hands lovingly holding, embracing orperson. Because of its strong identification with
caressing a heart, topped by a simple crown. TheIreland and its traditions, the Claddagh design just
Claddagh design is strongly identified with Irelandabout shouts "Irish!"
and its history and lore, but it actually symbolizesCladdagh Rings ... Treasured Jewelry That
much, much more than that. It stands for loyalty,Symbolizes Treasured Emotions.
trust and faith. And it is a pure,shining symbol ofThere are several different types of Claddagh
eternal friendship. In short, it symbolizes life, andjewelry, but by far the most popular is the
love.Claddagh ring, which is usually given or worn as a
Each of the elements in the design of a Claddaghsign of friendship or love. A Claddagh ring can be
ring has a meaning. The heart symbolizes love,worn as a wedding ring, an engagement ring, a
the hands surrounding the heart symbolizesymbol of romantic attachment, or simply as a
friendship, and the crown signifies loyalty. Thesymbol of a platonic, deep friendship. Because of
saying "let love and friendship reign" perfectlytheir strong emotional connections and their
summarizes the symbolism of the Claddaghbeautiful designs, Claddagh rings are often
design.considered to be family heirlooms, and they are
Claddagh Rings Are Irish, But Are Wornfrequently passed down from mother to
Throughout The World.daughter.
Claddagh jewelry is named after a small IrishPrecious metals such as gold, sterling silver and
fishing village located near Galway, Ireland.platinum are frequently used to make Claddagh
Although originally uniquely Irish, the wave of Irishrings. Precious and semi-precious gemstones such
immigration that occurred during the mid- andas diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, rubies and
late-1800s spread the Claddagh design to thetopaz, can be inlaid or set into the metal. making
United States and elsewhere, and Claddagh ringsthese rings as precious and treasured as the
are now worn in many parts of the world.emotions they symbolize. But whether bejeweled
Claddagh rings are primarily worn by those ofor not, a Claddagh ring has a striking, instantly
Irish origin or people with an affinity for the Irish,identifiable, highly symbolic design that evokes
but because of their beauty and deep emotionaleternal friendship and everlasting love.
meaning, others wear them as well. And they are