A traditional piece of Irish jewelry, the Claddagh ring is typically made of gold, silver, or pewter. The ring always features two hands holding a heart, with a crown resting above the heart. The ring's top piece never varies by ring, but it doesn't have to be made from any specific material. The band itself may contain any number of designs—simple or elaborate.
Claddagh rings symbolize friendship, love, betrothal, or marriage. The intended meaning of the Claddagh ring depends entirely on how you wear it. Though there are specialized men's and women's rings, the Claddagh itself isn't geared toward one gender or another.
