The Claddagh Cross

While originally designed about 400 years ago to be worn as a ring, the symbol of the Claddagh has evolved in the world of jewelry to other forms as well. The Claddagh Cross is a newer and popular way to display the Claddagh and combines the meaning of the Claddagh with the many meanings of the Cross.

The traditional meaning of the Claddagh is love (heart) loyalty (crown) and friendship (hands) The traditional meaning of the Cross is faith, loyalty, and courage. The circle of the cross signifies infinity...with no beginning and no end. Both the cross and the Claddagh are extremely important in Irish heritage and combined together to create this striking piece of jewelry.

We offer several Claddagh Crosses, all of which are in a Celtic Cross form. The Celtic Cross dates back to the early middle ages, approximately 8th to 10th century. These Crosses were designed by the ancient Irish Celts and had both religious and practical significance (among other things they were markers for meeting places). The original crosses were hand cut in stone showing intricate interlacing knots, mythical animals and human Figures. The High Cross is possibly the best known symbol of early Christianity in Ireland.

Celtic Crosses made of stone can be found throughout the Irish countryside, including County Galway where the Claddagh originated. One of the Celtic Crosses in Galway (at Teampall Bhreacain) even has a ring carved around it – showing that while Claddagh crosses may be a newer look in jewelry, the Celtic Cross and rings have been united since the 8th Century.