Irish Claddagh Rings

The motto "let love and friendship reign," for an Irish Claddagh ring, is obvious when you look at the ring design. The ring is like none other- a heart wearing a crown, which is cradled by two hands. Traditionally, the ring could be worn in three different ways- all of which express the wearer's status in their search for true love. "With these hands I give you my heart and I crown it with my love."

The way you choose to wear your Irish Claddagh ring symbolizes the state of your romantic life. When worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward, it means that the heart is free to be courted, when worn with the heart facing inward, it means that the heart is in love. When worn on the left hand, it means that you are with the love of your life forever.

For the person seeking true authenticity in the search for an Irish Claddagh ring, there is the Fado collection, which is fashioned in Ireland, and beautifully hand-crafted by artisans there. Each ring is hallmarked in Dublin, authenticated by the Irish Assay Office, assuring any prospect buyer of its superior quality and craftsmanship. They come in 14k white or yellow gold, or a combination of both: the two-tone Claddagh.

The Claddagh is the traditional wedding ring of the Irish, and has been so since its origination in the 17th century. When choosing your Claddagh in silver, make certain it bears the mark of high-grade sterling: .925 or 925/100 should be imprinted somewhere on the ring, usually on the inside of the band.

Types of Claddagh Rings:

The Claddagh ring with stone- This design incorporates a stone in the middle of the heart, which can range from a diamond, to an emerald, to a ruby.

The Heart Stone Claddagh ring- In this ring the stone is larger, and is actually heart-shaped. The stones come in choices such as blue topaz or amethyst, and also in synthetics such as synthetic emerald.

The Pearl Heart- A pearl adorns the heart of this Claddagh ring, adding the serene, mystical quality of the sea. It is available in an antique replica, with or without diamond chips inset into the heart, from crown to tip.