Whether you have Irish heritage or simply love rings that are rich in symbolism, Claddagh engagement rings are a perfect option to consider. These rings date all the way back to the Irish village of Claddagh in the 17th Century. Featuring two hands holding a heart, with a crown at the top, the rings represent love, friendship and loyalty.
Although they are also used as promise and friendship rings, they are an especially romantic option for engagement rings, representing the deep bond you share that goes beyond romantic love. They represent a lasting partnership based on trust, commitment and a shared future together. If you prefer rings that offer something more unique, you’re sure to fall in love with these rings.
Romantic & Symbolic Claddagh Engagement Rings
As engagement rings, there are many ways to bring in the spirit of Claddagh, in elegant designs that combine symbolism with style. Here are some ideas to inspire your custom ring design.
Golden Heart
Image: jewelrydesigns.com
This ring has a classic Claddagh style, featuring the traditional crown, hands and heart. The addition of a heart-cut diamond adds a touch of extra romance to this ring, while the simple gold band helps make the centre stone stand out. While this ring works well in yellow gold, it would work well in any other metal. You could also swap out the centre diamond for a coloured diamond or even a classic Irish-inspired emerald.
Celtic Knots
Image: brilliantearth.com
For something more contemporary, this rose gold ring incorporates another Irish element – Celtic knots. The band is delicately knotted, leading up towards the centre, with two tiny diamonds on either side, positioned within the knots. A heart-shaped diamond is capped by a tiny diamond, giving the illusion of a crown. The three stones situated along the ring add even more symbolism, representing your past, present and future. This feminine ring would work in any metal.
Triple Band
Image: glencara.com
Another example of a modern Claddagh design is this triple-band ring. Each band is encrusted with tiny pave diamonds. The centre band holds the heart and hands, while the top band features a small crown. The result is a subtle ring that manages to make a statement without being too bold. You could add more contrast by mixing metals or choosing a coloured diamond instead of a classic white diamond.
Modern Stack
Image: lynbrookirishshop.com
Love stacked rings? This one is yet another great example of how to incorporate Claddagh in a modern design. The bottom ring is a simple tiara or chevron ring, with bezel-set diamonds in a gradient. The main ring features an emerald in the centre, flanked by a heart-shaped halo, and a crown at the top. The result is a contemporary, unique ring.
Rosy Morganite
Image: rareearthjewelry.com
Morganite and rose gold are a match made in heaven – especially when it comes to romantic engagement ring designs. In this design, the bezel-set centre heart is flanked by subtle hands, with a crown positioned at the top. A delicate band ensures that the ring keeps its ornate detail without being too over the top.
Minimal Pave
Image: michaelhill.com.au
For something even simpler, this is the ultimate minimal Claddagh ring. A fine yellow-gold band leads into the hands, while an open pave heart lies at the centre. A crown sits on the top of the heart. You could enhance this ring with more detail by adding additional pave stones along the crown or along the top of the band, or keep it simple to let the heart take centre stage. Changing the open pave heart to a heart-cut diamond with a heart halo would also add more detail to this ring.
However, if you decide to bring in an element of Irish romance, a custom ring design is the best way to turn your dream ring into a reality. Contact Cape Diamonds to find out how we can help you craft the perfect Claddagh engagement ring.