Claddagh refers to a small fishing village near Galway City, Ireland. The Claddagh is a heart encircled by a pair of delicate hands with a crown above the heart.  Long ago this design was the symbol of the "Fishing Kings of Claddagh" meaning "in love and friendship let us reign." In the 17^th  century the symbol was first depicted on a ring which became the fashionable exchange of friends or lovers.

The symbol of the Claddagh Ring still lives on in many forms today, as in this Galway Irish Crystal Claddagh Ring collection—with a beautiful etched Claddagh design on this attractive round paperweight. Measures 3 1/2". Hand crafted in Galway, Ireland and attractively gift boxed.