Hey husband and wife-to-be, quick question: How many times have you had a tiff with your S.O. because y’all couldn’t agree on the right wedding ring finger to flaunt your future sparkler? If your answer is any number more than one, then this article was practically made for you.
Join us today as we take you through the brief yet romantic history of the wedding ring finger and finally answer the question ‘Which hand and finger does a wedding ring go on?’
Which Hand and Finger to Wear Your Wedding Ring On?
Traditionally, in most parts of the United States, the wedding ring is worn on the fourth finger (counting from the thumb) on the left hand by both men and women. It’s also popularly called as the ring finger.
Read more: 10 Engagement Ring Proposal Ideas
Why Are Wedding Rings Worn on the Left Hand?
Read more: The Origin of Wedding Rings
Well, to explain this tradition we need to take a little trip down history lane.
You see, it all started with the Ancient Romans who believed that the fourth finger on the left hand contained a vein that led straight to the heart. They even had a fancy name for it – Vena Amoris.
The Early Romans were convinced that slipping a ring onto this finger meant forging a direct connection between the hearts of two lovebirds.
Read more: How to Upgrade an Engagement Ring
Of course, no such vein exists but the sweetness of this tradition has kept it going through the years.
In fact, it was particularly famous during 11th-century, mediaeval Europe. During Christian betrothal ceremonies, men would engage in a ring-blessing ritual that ended with the placement of the ring on their beloved’s left hand wedding ring finger. But it wasn’t exactly a one-step process (’cause why would it be?). So, the placement had to follow a particular sequence, starting at their thumb and eventually ending at their fourth finger where the ring would stay. It was basically a choreographed dance of love and the fourth finger was the grand finale—a symbolic commitment to a lifetime of partnership.
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And while women loved the idea of flaunting their band, in the UK, men weren’t exactly rushing to join the wedding ring party. In fact, until the 20th century, it was a ladies-only affair.
Read more: Engagement Ring Buying Guide
That was until, of course, the arrival of the First and Second World Wars when men decided it was time to let a little glimmer of love accompany them into the battlefield. Wedding rings became a poignant reminder of wives left behind and a tangible connection in times of uncertainty.
Interestingly, the tradition of wearing wedding rings didn’t die down after the war and today, both men and women, proudly flaunt their sparklers as a sign of their commitment in the United States as well as in other countries.
Know more: How To Find The Average Gemstone Carat Size For An Engagement Ring?
Did You Know?
While most people wear their wedding ring on their left hand, lefties often prefer to showcase their commitment on the right. Why? Well, being the minority in a world designed for right-handed individuals, lefties choose the path of least inconvenience. They spare themselves the awkward dance of trying to open a stubborn jar or wield a pair of scissors with a ring-wrapped finger. And in all honesty – more power to them.
Also Read: 7 Wedding Band Engraving Ideas That Are Super Cute!
How to Wear Your Engagement and Wedding Rings Together
Typically, this is an issue that most women go through. The most popular option here is to perform a ring shuffle for your grand entrance down the aisle. Move your engagement ring to the opposite hand, allowing your partner to smoothly slide the wedding band onto the wedding ring finger.
Also read: Birthstone Engagement Rings
After the big day, you’re free to wear your rings however you fancy. Some women opt for the ‘closest to the heart’ theory, stacking the wedding band below the engagement ring on the ring finger of their left hand.
Learn more: Best Gemstone for Your Promise Ring
In the grand scheme of things, whether it’s the left hand or the right, the wedding ring finger remains a worldwide symbol of love and commitment. So, the next time you catch a glimpse of that shiny ring on someone’s finger, remember the centuries of tradition, the legend of the love vein and the left-handed rebels making their own rules.
Read more: What are Promise Rings
Searching for the perfect wedding ring for your woman? Make our collection your first stop. From diamond-studded beauties to vibrant peridot stunners, there’s something for everyone within our collection.
Read more: Burnt Orange Weddings and 5 Ways to Do It Right!
We also have several wedding rings for men. So, if you’re looking for an absolute stunner for yourself or your partner, our collection is sure to be where your search ends.
Read more: How to Pick an Engagement Ring: Everything You Need to Know
FAQ
It definitely is! That said, if your stunner looks similar to a wedding band or engagement ring, people might get confused about your relationship status. But if you’re okay with that, by all means, go ahead.
