Symbolism: Claddagh

The Claddagh is a traditional Irish symbol representing love, loyalty, and friendship, depicted as two hands clasping a heart, often topped by a crown. It carries a timeless message of devotion, trust, and unity, rooted in Celtic tradition and folk legend.

Whether worn as a ring, pendant, or talisman, the Claddagh transcends adornment—it's a visual pledge of emotional integrity and enduring connection.

Origins and Historical Context

The Claddagh design originates from the Irish fishing village of Claddagh, near Galway, in the 17th century. Though similar motifs existed in European art and “fede rings” (from the Latin mani in fede, or “hands in faith”), the Claddagh’s distinct heart-hands-crown motif became uniquely tied to Irish heritage.

The most popular origin story credits Richard Joyce, a silversmith from Galway, who was captured by Algerian pirates and sold into slavery. While in captivity, he learned the craft of goldsmithing. Upon his release, he returned to Ireland and created the first Claddagh ring—allegedly as a symbol of love waiting to be reclaimed.

Visual Description

Hands: Represent friendship—the support and holding of another

Heart: Represents love—the emotional and spiritual center

Crown: Represents loyalty—nobility, trust, and steadfastness

The three elements are always present, though styles vary. Traditionally worn as a ring, the orientation (which way the heart faces) can signify the wearer's relationship status.

Core Meanings and Interpretations

Love (heart): Romantic or unconditional love shared with another or oneself

Loyalty (crown): Devotion, fidelity, and a noble bond across time

Friendship (hands): Connection, trust, and shared humanity

Commitment: Used in weddings, engagements, and lasting unions

Return: A symbol of reunion, often exchanged across distances or after hardship

The Claddagh speaks not only to romantic connection, but to the balance of heart, hands, and honor—a trifecta of relational integrity.

Related Symbols and Contrasts

Fede Rings: Renaissance-era rings featuring clasped hands, from which the Claddagh evolved

Celtic Knot: Symbolizing eternity and interconnection

Heart Symbol: Though universal, the Claddagh anchors it in a social and ethical frame

Anam Cara (“soul friend”): A Celtic spiritual idea often resonant with the Claddagh’s essence

Modern Use and Relevance

Today, the Claddagh is:

• A wedding or promise ring, especially in Irish or Irish-American families

• A friendship token, honoring chosen bonds that transcend bloodlines

• A symbol of Irish identity and heritage, especially among the diaspora

• A heirloom, passed between generations with stories woven into its form

It holds a quiet emotional weight for many—reminding the wearer of someone beloved, a promise made, or a home they carry inside.

Wearing Tips (Traditional):

• On the right hand with the heart facing outward = single

• Right hand, heart inward = in a relationship

• Left hand, heart inward = engaged or married

Claddagh in Bhav Jewelry

At Bhav, we offer the Claddagh as a sacred symbol of heart-centered connection and soulful allegiance.

We often pair it with subtle accents like Garnet for fidelity and passion.

Claddagh Sterling Silver Ring

Claddagh Sterling Silver Ring with Amethyst

Claddagh Sterling Silver Ring with Garnet

Our Claddagh designs invite the wearer to not only give love, but to hold it with care, loyalty, and reverence—for self, for others, and for something eternal.

References & Further Exploration

Irish Claddagh Ring Legend – National Museum of Ireland

Joyce, Richard – Folklore and Jewelry History Archives

Related Symbols: Celtic Knots, Anam Cara, Heart Symbol

Anam Cara by John O’Donohue