A heart-shaped garnet stone, signaling a January birthday, glows warmly from the center of this Claddagh ring. A beaded crown tops the gem, and sterling silver hands curve around it. Two round-cut CZ's embedded in the band on either side create the illusion of bejeweled sleeves.

The Language of the Claddagh

The Claddagh may well be the most widely recognized emblem in Irish jewelry. People of all nations wear this symbol to indicate their commitment to romance as well as to broadcast their relationship status. An individual searching for affection slips a Claddagh ring on his or her finger with the bottom of the heart pointing outward, and an individual already settled in a partnership turns the crown to the world. The hands of the Claddagh represent friendship; the crown, faithfulness; and the heart, love.