I have a thing for claddaghs. They are an Irish symbol of love, affection and romance. The crown stands for loyalty, the hands for friendship and the heart for love. Lovers, family and friends exchange them and many families hand them down as keepsakes and tokens of affection. At this time of year they start popping up and I am happy to see them. You may have seen one but not be familiar with the symbolism.
The way the Claddagh ring is worn tells the world how love stands in the heart of the ring bearer.
- Worn on the right hand with the heart facing out, the Claddagh ring says that the ring bearer's heart is not yet won.
- Worn on the right hand with the heart facing in, it tells the world that the ring bearer is under love's spell and the two lovers have become engaged.
- Worn on the left hand with the heart facing in, it shows the world that the ring bearer's love has finally found a home in marriage.
Throughout Claddagh history, the ring has been handed down from mother to daughter with the saying, "With these hands I give you my heart and I crown it with my love." There is no traditional age when the ring is supposed to be handed down. Each mother determines when her own daughter is ready for this special family heirloom.
I have a claddagh ring and necklace.....
as well as hand towels, mugs, and even a small wool rug! Here is a photo of the claddagh rug we have on the staircase...I see it every morning as I walk downstairs to the kitchen to start my day~
I leave it out year-round, not just near St. Patrick's Day! I want my family to see the pretty pink heart and loving hands, topped with a crown...it is a subtle message, and symbol of the affection and loyalty we share.
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