The Claddagh Ring. An Irish Symbol of Love

Hi Everyone. I hope I find you all well this week. Today, I want to share one of Ireland’s most beloved symbols—the Claddagh Ring. It’s so much more than just a beautiful piece of Irish jewelry. The Claddagh is a powerful emblem of love, loyalty, and friendship, and its timeless message continues to resonate with people all over the world.

Whether you’re proudly Irish or simply drawn to Celtic tradition, Claddagh Jewelry is a wonderful way to wear a piece of Irish heritage close to your heart. It also makes a truly meaningful gift from Ireland, perfect for weddings, anniversaries, or as a keepsake for someone special.

The Story of The Claddagh Ring

The story takes us back over 300 years to a tiny fishing village called Claddagh, just outside the historic city of Galway—the City of Tribes. It’s here we meet Richard Joyce, a young man from Galway who was captured by pirates on his way to the West Indies around 1675 and sold into slavery.

During his 14 years in captivity, Richard was apprenticed to a Moorish goldsmith who taught him the art of jewelry making. All the while, Richard never forgot the woman he loved back home. Upon his release, he returned to Galway—and to her—bringing with him a ring he had crafted during his enslavement. It was the first Claddagh ring.

Every part of the design carries deep meaning:

• The heart represents love

• The hands signify friendship

• The crown stands for loyalty

To this day, the Claddagh ring is given as a token of deep affection, whether romantic or platonic, and is treasured as a symbol of enduring connection.

How to Wear Your Claddagh Ring

My Top Claddagh Jewelry Picks – Perfect Irish Gifts

At The Irish Store, we’re proud to stock a wide collection of authentic Claddagh rings and Claddagh jewelry, handcrafted here in Ireland by expert artisans. Whether you're shopping for a loved one or treating yourself, here are some of my personal favorites:

1. Celtic Cats Eye Claddagh Jewelry Set

First up it's a five star customer favorite! This stunning Claddagh matching pendant and earrings set features Ireland's much-loved Irish symbol of love and friendship in exquisite detail. Beautifully crafted with eye-catching emerald green cats eye stones. 

2. Mullingar Pewter Claddagh Jewelry Box

Maybe her collection of Claddagh jewelry is complete so why not give her the gift of this stunning jewelry box. The craftsmanship is beautifully detailed with delicate bead work and intricate hand finished Celtic knot designs offsetting the iconic symbol of Love, Loyalty & Friendship. Handcrafted by the renowned Mullingar Pewter.

3. Connemara Marble Claddagh Drop Jewelry Set

I'm so excited to share this stunning Celtic jewelry set from our brand new fall/winter 25 collection. Crafted in sterling silver with accents of Connemara Marble and eye-catching marcasite stones

4. Silver Heart Shamrock & Claddagh Pendant

Our penultimate pick is a stunning Claddagh pendant. Featuring delicately looped hearts, lucky shamrocks and the iconic Irish Claddagh. These much loved symbols of Ireland are beautifully combined in a fresh modern design with exquisite accents of rose gold

5. Silver Connemara Marble Claddagh Ring

Well I simply must end my top picks with the classic Claddagh ring! Our number one best seller is a customer 5 star favorite and it's easy to see why. The Claddagh symbol is beautifully re-created in stunning detail. Crafted in sterling silver with an eye-catching heart of Ireland's ancient gemstone, Connemara Marble.

Happy Shopping!

Slán go fóill!

Lulu.