The History and Meaning of the Claddagh Ring

The Claddagh ring shows two hands holding a crowned heart. It comes from Claddagh, a fishing village beside Galway on the west coast of Ireland. Jewellers in Galway have made it since at least 1700, so the design is more than 300 years old.

People wear it for love, for friendship and for pride in Irish roots. This guide explains what the design means, where it came from and how to wear it. We checked each claim against the sources listed at the foot of the page.

What the three parts mean

Every part of the ring has a meaning. Together they spell out a short promise of love, loyalty and friendship.

Where the ring came from

The modern Claddagh form first appeared in the 1600s. Galway has made it without a break since at least 1700. However, the name "Claddagh ring" was not in use before the 1830s. It spread in Victorian times, when Galway jewellers began to sell it beyond the town.

The idea of clasped hands is older than Claddagh. Romans wore rings with joined hands, called fede rings. They came back as engagement and wedding rings in medieval and Renaissance Europe. The Claddagh ring adds a heart and a crown to that old idea.

A famous story credits Richard Joyce, a Galway silversmith, with the design. It says pirates seized him around 1675 and sold him to a goldsmith, who taught him the trade. Many writers repeat the tale, yet it remains a legend. The only firm link is that his initials appear on one of the earliest rings that survive.

How to wear a Claddagh ring

Tradition says the way you turn the ring tells others how you feel. The right hand is for dating, and the left hand is for commitment.

These are customs, not rules. They vary a little between families, and between Ireland and the Irish abroad. If in doubt, wear it the way that feels right to you.

Who gives a Claddagh ring

People give the ring to mark a friendship, a proposal, a wedding or an anniversary. Because the symbol is easy to read, the gift explains itself.

Next, choose the metal and the size. Our ring size guide shows how to measure at home, and our care guide explains how to keep silver bright. You can also read about the wider family of designs in our Celtic symbols guide.