The Claddagh's distinctive design features two hands clasping a heart, and usually surmounted by a crown. The elements of this symbol are often said to correspond to the qualities of love (the heart), friendship (the hands), and loyalty (the crown). A "Fenian" Claddagh ring, without a crown, was later designed in Dublin. Claddagh rings, with or without the crown (most commonly with a crown), have come to denote pride in Irish heritage, while continuing to be symbols of love or marriage. Claddagh rings may be used as friendship or relationship rings depending on the intention of wearer and, in the case of a gift, of the giver. The way that a Claddagh ring is worn on the hand is usually intended to convey the wearer's relationship status: ~Right hand with the heart facing outward, the wearer is single and may be looking for love. ~Right hand but turned inwards, the wearer is in a relationship, or their heart has been "captured". ~Left hand with the heart facing outward, the wearer is engaged. ~Left hand but turned inwards, the wearer is married. There are other, local variations in the traditions involving the hand and the finger upon which the Claddagh is worn. Folklore about the ring is relatively recent with no "slow growth from antiquity" and "very little native Irish writing about the ring" according to Sean McMahon. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claddagh_ring