What is a Claddagh Ring

The design elements common to all Claddagh rings are two hands lovingly holding, embracing or caressing a heart, topped by a simple crown. The Claddagh design is strongly identified with Ireland and its history and lore, but it actually symbolizes much, much more than that. It stands for loyalty, trust and faith. And it is a pure,shining symbol of eternal friendship. In short, it symbolizes life, and love.

Each of the elements in the design of a Claddagh ring has a meaning. The heart symbolizes love, the hands surrounding the heart symbolize friendship, and the crown signifies loyalty. The saying "let love and friendship reign" perfectly summarizes the symbolism of the Claddagh design.

Claddagh Rings Are Irish, But Are Worn Throughout The World.

Claddagh jewelry is named after a small Irish fishing village located near Galway, Ireland. Although originally uniquely Irish, the wave of Irish immigration that occurred during the mid- and late-1800s spread the Claddagh design to the United States and elsewhere, and Claddagh rings are now worn in many parts of the world. Claddagh rings are primarily worn by those of Irish origin or people with an affinity for the Irish, but because of their beauty and deep emotional meaning, others wear them as well. And they are sometimes worn purely as a cultural symbol of Ireland rather than as a sign of affection for a person. Because of its strong identification with Ireland and its traditions, the Claddagh design just about shouts "Irish!"

Claddagh Rings ... Treasured Jewelry That Symbolizes Treasured Emotions.

There are several different types of Claddagh jewelry, but by far the most popular is the Claddagh ring, which is usually given or worn as a sign of friendship or love. A Claddagh ring can be worn as a wedding ring, an engagement ring, a symbol of romantic attachment, or simply as a symbol of a platonic, deep friendship. Because of their strong emotional connections and their beautiful designs, Claddagh rings are often considered to be family heirlooms, and they are frequently passed down from mother to daughter.

Precious metals such as gold, sterling silver and platinum are frequently used to make Claddagh rings. Precious and semi-precious gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, rubies and topaz, can be inlaid or set into the metal. making these rings as precious and treasured as the emotions they symbolize. But whether bejeweled or not, a Claddagh ring has a striking, instantly identifiable, highly symbolic design that evokes eternal friendship and everlasting love.

Diane Hamments is a freelance author who writes on various subjects including Claddagh Jewelry, Collectibles and Memorabilia. Visit great gift ideas for more information.