The Claddagh Necklace: Meaning and How to Wear Them

The Claddagh is one of Ireland’s most enduring and recognisable symbols, traditionally worn as a ring to represent love, loyalty and friendship. Today, the claddagh necklace has emerged as a beautifully wearable alternative — carrying the same powerful meaning while offering greater versatility, modern styling, and gifting appeal.

As interest in Claddagh jewellery continues to grow, the necklace has become a meaningful way to celebrate Irish heritage, personal connections, and timeless design.

What Is a Claddagh Necklace?

Pictured: 9ct Gold Claddagh Necklace

A Claddagh necklace features the iconic Claddagh motif — two hands holding a heart topped with a crown — suspended from a chain and worn close to the heart. While closely connected to the famous Claddagh ring, a necklace offers a softer, more universal interpretation of the symbol, making it suitable for everyday wear and gifting across generations.

Often referred to as a Claddagh ring necklace, this style allows wearers to embrace the Celtic jewellery tradition without the specific customs associated with ring orientation, giving it a more relaxed and contemporary appeal.

Claddagh Necklace Meaning

Pictured: Sterling Silver Claddagh Necklace

The claddagh necklace meaning is rooted in the same symbolism that has defined the Claddagh for centuries:

• The hands represent friendship

• The heart symbolises love

• The crown stands for loyalty

Worn as a necklace, these values take on an even more personal significance. Positioned close to the heart, a Claddagh necklace becomes a quiet expression of connection — whether that’s romantic love, family bonds, lifelong friendship, or pride in Irish heritage.

A Brief History of Wearing the Claddagh as a Necklace

The Claddagh originated in Galway in the 17th century and is most famously associated with rings (a history explored in depth in our blog on The History of the Claddagh Ring). Over time, however, the symbol evolved beyond rings into pendants, bracelets and necklaces, allowing it to be worn in more versatile and expressive ways.

As Irish jewellery traditions expanded, the Claddagh necklace became especially popular among those wishing to carry the symbolism daily, without the relationship-status conventions of the ring. It now sits proudly alongside other iconic Celtic designs (as explored in Celtic Jewellery: From Claddagh Rings to the Tree of Life).

How to Wear a Claddagh Necklace

Pictured: Sterling Silver Claddagh Necklace with Connemara Marble 

One of the great advantages of a Claddagh necklace is its simplicity. Unlike the ring, there are no rules around orientation or meaning based on how it’s worn — making it an easy, personal piece to style.

A Claddagh necklace can be worn:

• On its own for a classic, understated look

• Layered with fine chains for modern styling

• Over clothing as a statement, or under garments as a personal keepsake

Its timeless design suits both traditional and contemporary wardrobes, making it ideal for everyday wear.

 

Who Is a Claddagh Necklace a Meaningful Gift For?

A Claddagh necklace makes a deeply thoughtful gift, thanks to its universal symbolism and Irish roots. It’s especially meaningful for:

• Romantic partners, as a symbol of love and loyalty

• Family members, to represent enduring bonds

• Those with Irish heritage or connections to Ireland

• Milestone moments such as birthdays, graduations, or anniversaries

The Claddagh necklace has also become a popular gift for men— appreciated for its strength, symbolism and cultural significance.

Claddagh Necklace Styles to Suit Every Taste

Claddagh necklaces are available in a variety of finishes and interpretations, allowing wearers to choose a style that reflects their personality. From classic precious metal designs to more decorative variations, options include polished gold or silver, subtle gemstone accents, and contemporary updates on the traditional motif.

Claddagh Necklaces with Birthstones & Crystals

Pictured: Sterling Silver September Birthstone Claddagh Necklace with Trinity Knot

Claddagh necklaces featuring birthstones or crystals add an extra layer of personal symbolism to an already meaningful design. While the Claddagh itself represents love, loyalty and friendship, a gemstone can reflect individuality, birth month, or a significant life moment — transforming the necklace into a truly personal keepsake.

Birthstones are often chosen to represent:

• A wearer’s birth month

• A loved one’s birthstone

• A shared anniversary or milestone

For example, a Claddagh necklace with a clear crystal or gemstone heart can symbolise clarity, strength, or enduring love, while coloured stones introduce emotional depth and visual interest. These designs are especially popular as gifts, as they allow the giver to thoughtfully tailor the piece to the recipient without needing custom engraving.

Explore Bannon Jewellers’ Claddagh Necklace Collection

At Bannon Jewellers, our Claddagh necklaces are crafted with care, respect for tradition, and an eye for modern elegance. Each piece reflects the heritage of this iconic Irish symbol while offering exceptional quality and timeless wearability.

Explore our full Claddagh necklace collection to find a piece that speaks to your story — whether for yourself or as a meaningful gift.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Claddagh Necklaces

What does a Claddagh necklace symbolise?

A Claddagh necklace symbolises love, loyalty and friendship, represented by the heart, crown and hands, making it a meaningful piece of Irish jewellery.

Is there a correct way to wear a Claddagh necklace?

Unlike a Claddagh ring, there is no right or wrong way to wear a Claddagh necklace — it can be styled freely and worn simply as a personal or symbolic piece.

Can men wear a Claddagh necklace?

Yes, Claddagh necklaces are worn by both men and women, with many styles designed to suit a more understated or traditional aesthetic.

Is a Claddagh necklace a good gift?

A Claddagh necklace makes an excellent gift thanks to its universal symbolism, Irish heritage, and suitability for many occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries.

What is the difference between a Claddagh ring and a Claddagh necklace?

While both share the same symbolism, a Claddagh ring traditionally follows specific wearing customs, whereas a Claddagh necklace offers greater flexibility and modern wearability.