Claddagh Engagement Rings
The Claddagh engagement ring is all about romance and commitment

Claddagh engagement rings are traditional Irish rings that were introduced in the 17th century. There are many legends that surround the origin of the design and although no one is sure which of the legends is true, the Claddagh ring has always been thought to symbolize love, friendship, and loyalty.

We love that this ring so clearly let’s your intentions and status show. Whenever we see a Claddagh ring, it is so much fun pausing, seeing which direction the heart faces, and which hand it is worn on—the silent secret language of the ancients!

The customs and traditions associated with Claddagh engagement rings haven't changed all that much over the last 300 years. They are still very much a part of the lives of those of Irish ancestry, are considered family heirlooms, and passed on from one generation to the next. Others have embraced the deep meaning and symbolism of Claddagh rings and choose the Claddagh to represent love and union regardless of their heritage.

Claddagh engagement rings are becoming more and more popular because people like the meaning behind the ring. Today, a person wearing a Claddagh ring can tell others if they are single and open to romance, engaged, or even married. It all depends where the ring is worn and how it is worn.

This is why we think they are so special!

A Claddagh ring is worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward away from the person wearing it, it means that they are not attached and open to romance. When the heart is pointed towards the person it means that they are in a relationship and that their heart belongs to someone.

If a Claddagh ring is worn on the left hand with the heart facing outward then it is considered an engagement ring and the wearer is engaged. If the heart points inward, towards the wearer, then they're telling you that they are married.

How great is that?

Because a Claddagh ring is all about love and commitment they can be worn by the man or woman, or both—which makes them all the more romantic.

Another interesting aspect about Claddagh rings is that because of their deep meaning and symbolism, there is no real convention for materials. Claddagh rings come in silver, gold, and platinum and are most often made only of metal.

Since it is the design itself that defines the ring it isn't viewed as necessary to include a gemstone. However, today many people do like to include birthstones, gemstones or even diamonds making the Claddagh ring even more special, and something that they feel better about passing on to future generations. 

If you choose this ring and don’t add a stone right away, you can add one later. A diamond or other precious stone makes a great anniversary present, or if you pass it on to your son or daughter, that addition will really make it theirs.
 

Here's a great example of a ruby and diamond Claddagh ring set in white gold by designer Jessica Behzad. It really is lovely and truly captures the essence of what this type of ring should be. Although you can customize it and choose any gemstone or metal, we like the idea of a red ruby for the heart. So many options, from metal choices to stone colors! Click on the ring and check it out...

Claddagh engagement rings are really quite unique in that they're so much more than a piece of jewelry. They represent everything that love and marriage are supposed to be about and the legends, folklore, and myths that surround them make them all the more special.

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