GALWAY, Ireland — Over the years the Claddagh ring — which shows two hands clasping a crowned heart — has been a love token, a friendship ring and, in modern times, a symbol of Ireland itself.

The meaning of the Irish Claddagh ring is both special and sentimental. The design, which generally represents love, friendship, and loyalty, harks back to Ireland in the 1700s.

I f you have an Irish friend—or even if you've celebrated St. Patrick's Day weekend—you're probably familiar with the classic Claddagh ring. But did you know it's more than just Celtic jewelry?

April 08, 2025 at 6:00am BST. The Claddagh ring has long been an Irish symbol, with its heart, hands, and crown worn as a symbol of love, friendship, and loyalty.

Irish Claddagh rings have an unexpected history—it involves pirates. You’ve seen the iconic heirloom with two hands clasping a crowned heart.

Claddagh rings are popular with Irish Americans who want to represent their heritage and over 200 were found among the ruins of the 9/11 tragedy ...

“When I was a kid, my dad got me a Claddagh ring and I’ve had it my whole life; it’s always meant something to me,” she says. While living in Norway before the Covid lockdown in 2020 ...

Historian Laura Fitzachary delves into the history and popularity of Irish iconography. 'The Claddagh ring is having a moment,' is a phrase that has been banded about the last few months, ...