UM Celtic Claddagh Symbol

The Claddagh, an ancient Gaelic symbol, is today a universal symbol of lasting love, eternal friendship, and loyalty. It was first designed around 400 years ago in a small village near Galway, Ireland. The Claddagh symbol shows a crown above two hands clasping a heart in the middle. The Claddagh design is used on the traditional wedding ring of the Irish. The Claddagh is often placed on betrothal bands to represent holding a lover's heart in one's hands. "With these hands I give you my heart and I crown it with my love." Excerpt from article yoinked from http://marriage.about.com/cs/rings/a/claddaghring.htm