The Irish have a unique, distinct, and special love symbol. It is called the Claddagh Ring and it has been in use for more than 400 years. It comes from Claddagh, a small fishing village, just outside the city walls of Galway.

By their own laws, every woman who married was obliged to wear the Claddagh Ring. The ring itself was an ordinary circular band, and the band was of two hands holding a crowned heart. Usually accompanied by a motif "Let love and friendship reign," it also signified the marriage vow, "I give you my heart in my hands and crown it with my love."

There are three ways to wear the Claddagh Ring. If worn on the right hand, with the crown turned inwards, it means that the wearer still has an unoccupied heart. Worn on the right hand with the crown pointing out, towards the knuckle, is an indication that there is a suitor under consideration. And, with an air of pride and finality, if worn on the left hand with the crown toward the knuckle, the wearer is already wed.

The Claddagh Ring is old, not as old as love itself, nor yet as new: but old and in affairs of the heart, as in Irish love, infinitely precious.

Ladies Claddagh Ring

Claddagh Hoop Earrings

Men's Claddagh Ring

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