St. Patrick’s Day is practically here, so it’s officially acceptable to pull out your green clothes and add an “O” in front of your last name. Whether you’re ready to pop the question or walk down the aisle, check out our curated collection of Irish-inspired jewelry. With these special pieces, you and your partner will feel Irish at heart for years to come!
History of Claddagh Rings
But first, a bit of background. The most recognizable piece of Irish jewelry is probably the Claddagh ring. Although these rings are fashionable today, the concept is actually centuries old. Claddagh-type rings were worn throughout Europe during the Middle Ages, and the design that most resembles today’s rings reportedly surfaced in 1700.
According to a popular legend, the modern Claddagh ring was designed by Richard Joyce, a fisherman from an area of Ireland called Claddagh. One day, soldiers captured Joyce and his boat and sold him into slavery. He was eventually sold to a goldsmith and turned into his apprentice. At some point afterward, Joyce crafted a ring for his longtime love, presented it to her upon his return to Ireland and became an established Irish goldsmith. His initials can apparently be found on some of the oldest surviving Claddagh rings!
Today’s Claddagh rings typically feature two hands holding a heart and a crown that sits atop the heart. The entire piece serves as a sweet symbol of love, loyalty and friendship. At times, you may even see fancier rings with decorative crowns and heart-shaped gemstones.
Did you know there’s also meaning in how a Claddagh ring is worn? Traditionally, the lovelorn and those in relationships have worn their rings on the right hand. If the crown points toward the ring owner, this indicates single status. But if the crown points away from the owner, that usually means the person is in a relationship. Similar “rules” apply to the left hand too. If the crown points toward the owner, this means the person is engaged. If the crown points away, the owner is probably married.
Claddagh rings have even been popular among celebrities throughout history, from Queen Victoria to Princess Grace of Monaco (aka actress Grace Kelly). Former U.S. presidents John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan also received rings upon their trips to Ireland.
Shop Our Favorite Claddagh Rings
A simple, sleek Claddagh ring may be all you need to show your devotion. Beautifully crafted in white or yellow 14-karat gold, every intricate detail of this traditional ring, from the hands to the crown, perfectly shines.
14K Gold Claddagh Stacking Ring
Give her a gift of love, loyalty and friendship with this beautiful Claddagh stacking ring. The 14-karat gold piece features all elements of a traditional Claddagh ring (heart, hands and crown), but look closely for fancy lines that decorate the hands and milgrain detailing that outlines the crown. This ring stuns in yellow, white or rose gold and is perfect on its own or when stacked with complementary pieces.
What is Celtic Knot Jewelry?
The Celtic knot is another common feature in Irish jewelry. You’ll know a simple Celtic knot when you see a pattern of endless loops, representing an eternity filled with love. The earliest designs of Celtic knots were reportedly created during the 7th century in Italy and other areas of what’s now known as Western Europe. By the 17th century, Queen Victoria, who popularized charm bracelets and wore Claddagh rings, apparently drew attention to the knot, when she chose the design for her wedding rings. Around the same time, legend has it that newlyweds in Ireland, Wales and Scotland also decorated their rings with the design.
Today, Celtic knots are found in places across the globe, such as India and Africa, and they come in several designs. Two popular variations are the love knot, which features intertwining hearts, and the trinity knot. When each trinity loop interlocks with the next, three triangular points typically form. And according to legend, each point has a special meaning. A few examples include Earth, air and water; life, death and rebirth; or the past, present and future of your relationship. As the name suggests, this style is also thought to symbolize the holy trinity, with each pointed oval representing the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Shop Our Favorite Celtic Knot Jewelry
Fallon 14K Gold Celtic Trinity Knot Stud Earrings
Fallon 14K Gold Celtic Trinity Knot Stacking Ring
Fallon 14K Gold Celtic Trinity Knot Pendant Necklace
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Our Favorite Irish-Inspired Engagement Rings
If your bride-to-be is Irish at heart, she’ll adore this gorgeous, Celtic-inspired engagement ring. Trinity knots, elegantly decorated with shimmering diamonds, make up the ring shank and connect to an absolutely stunning round-cut diamond at the top of the band. This piece is equally amazing in white, yellow or rose gold as well as platinum.
Erin Celtic-Inspired Diamond Wedding Ring
If you’re considering a matching wedding band for the magnificent sparkler above, look no further than this Celtic-inspired beauty. The piece features intricate loops and tiny diamonds that match the engagement ring’s design. Seeing these rings together will literally take your breath away.
Raegan 14K Gold Emerald Celtic Knot Promise Ring
Show your love and commitment to the one you adore with this Celtic Knot promise ring, featuring intricate knotted loops of polished gold leading to a stunning oval cut emerald for a pop of Irish green.
Shop Our Favorite Irish-Inspired Men’s Rings
Bedford 14K Gold Celtic Men’s Ring
Want to match your significant other’s Celtic knots? This sharp, Celtic ring is exclusively for men and will do just the trick. Large, polished loops loosely intertwine to form the top portion of the band. Whether you choose 14-karat white, yellow or rose gold, you’ll show her that your love is endless too.
8.00 mm Two Tone Celtic Knot Beveled Edge Wedding Ring
For a more masculine look, this Celtic knot wedding ring is a complete showstopper. Crafted in gray tantalum and black titanium, the durable piece features interlocking, angular loops of love that encircle the band. The touch of sheen along the edges adds the perfect contrast.
Patrick 14K Gold Celtic Knot Ring
Wear your heritage on your finger with this bold men's ring featuring a polished 14K gold segmented band with Celtic knot's across the top.
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Gage Diamonds is Chicago's premier jewelry showroom and online retailer of engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. We offer a selection of gorgeous Irish-inspired jewelry.
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