The Claddagh Symbol is called after Claddagh (pronounced “clawh-dah”), an Irish seaside hamlet where the ring pattern is linked to an ancient local tale. The now-famous storey of a townsman taken into slavery who returns to give his true love a ring is one of Ireland’s most renowned romantic legends. Claddagh rings are a customary mark of loyalty and friendship as much as passionate love, despite the romantic theme.
The Claddagh design is most commonly seen on rings, but it is also found on everything from jewellery to napkins to family crests. The hands symbolise friendship, the heart, love, and the crown, fidelity in the design. Depending on how the ring is worn—as a wedding ring, it is worn on the left hand with the heart directed inward—various traditions give different meanings to the band. It is worn on the right hand as an engagement ring, with the heart pointed inward, and on the right hand as a friendship ring, with the heart turned outward.
The claddagh and Norse “fede” (engagement/betrothal) rings, which occasionally portrayed hands clasped around a heart, are most likely related.