Claddagh Wedding Rings - Sacred Celtic Symbols of Love and Friendship

The Claddagh symbol is one of the best known Irish designs. It has a long and fascinating history, going back at least as far as Roman times. The Claddagh is a simple but eloquent symbol, portraying two hands surrounding a heart, with a crown above. This romantic image is a natural choice for many people looking for a wedding ring design. It can also be a sign of any kind of love, friendship or loyalty.

Claddagh rings have been the most popular wedding ring design in Ireland since the 17th Century, but the origins of the symbol go back much further. They are part of a type of ring called "Fede rings" in Irish, which translates into "faith." Faith rings go back to Roman times, and have traditionally portrayed two hands representing faith, friendship and loyalty.

For people knowledgeable about the Claddagh, its symbolism can vary depending on how its worn. If someone wears it on their right hand with the heart facing inwards, it says that they are engaged. Worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward says that the relationship is not yet solidified. Worn on the left hand with the heart facing inward says that the wearer is married. Of course, not everyone knows these traditional meanings, so you cannot assume that any of these conditions apply based solely on how someone is wearing a Claddagh ring.

Today, the Claddagh is as much a symbol of Irish or Celtic culture itself as a statement of love or friendship. As one of the most recognizable of traditional Celtic symbols, the Claddagh can be used by people of Irish or other Celtic heritage to show their pride in their heritage. Or it can be just as easily used by people of any heritage to display their feelings for another person!

The Claddagh is one of those symbols that is at once historical and timeless. Even someone who knows nothing about the Celtic tradition of the Claddagh could look at it and understand its meaning. For those who are familiar with its history, there is an added and richer meaning.

This ancient symbol is as beautiful and sacred a way of showing affection as ever before. Claddagh wedding rings, or any other kind of Claddagh symbol, is the perfect way to show someone that you will be true to them forever.