For those of you who aren't familiar with the renown Claddagh design, it consists of two hands holding a heart that has a crown sitting on top of it. The Claddagh design is usually incorporated into a ring design, however it is becoming increasingly popular to have the design inked on to one's body. The Claddagh heart is said to symbolize love, while the hands represent friendship. The crown above the heart represents loyalty. The tattoo design can be quite complex usually featuring gemstones in the crown itself, as well as Celtic knot designs in and around the main Claddagh design. What I have also noticed that usually accompanies this exquisite tattoo are Irish Gaelic words and phrases around the Claddagh, usually forming somewhat of a tattoo border. In many cases these Irish Gaelic words spell out the name of the person who the tattoo is dedicated to along with inked pledges involving eternal loyalty, love, friendship, and honor.
