By Bihar Tradition states that the engagement ring and wedding band are both worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, also deemed the “ring finger”. While many people have accepted this as common practice, others may be wondering why the engagement ring is worn on the left hand. To answer this question, we’ll have to take a brief look into history to see where this tradition originated from and why we still recognize it today.
In many Western cultures – from across Europe to the UK, USA and Canada – engagement rings and wedding bands are traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. But what’s the story behind the rule? Why is this digit the chosen vehicle for jewels so precious? This blog post explores the ‘ring finger’ tradition throughout history and in the modern-day context.
ANCIENT HISTORY .
The immediate answer to this question is one that’s rather endearing. The tradition of wearing romantic jewellery on the ring finger dates back to Ancient Egypt, when it was believed that a vein called the vena amoris (quite literally ‘vein of love’ in Latin) ran directly from the tip of that finger to the heart.
The breakless circular form of the engagement ring and wedding band is largely thought to symbolise the eternal nature of romantic union, with the open centre a portal to the yet unexplored life ahead as a couple. With these theories in mind, what could be a more meaningful way of communicating lifelong love and commitment than with a band of precious metal on the fourth finger of the left hand? Throw a unique inner-band engraving or a bespoke design into the mix and the sentimental value is off the chart.
MODERN EXPECTATIONS
Of course, in western culture, some of the old-school rules surrounding betrothals, weddings and marriages have since taken a leaf out of the dodo bird’s book. For example, your sentimental rings no longer need strictly mirror your partner’s in metal or design, nor do they necessarily need to be worn on your left ring finger if that doesn’t feel right.
We’re often asked the question “What finger do Indians wear their wedding rings on?,” and the answer is largely the fourth finger of the right hand. That’s because, in many Indian cultures, the left hand is deemed unlucky. Meanwhile, a number European nations – including Norway, Germany, Denmark, Latvia, Poland and Spain (the motherland of our Creative Director, Arabel!) – have looked to the right hand as the ideal spot for the engagement ring and wedding band because it’s the hand traditionally used for oaths and vows, inherently symbolising honour and trust. Leaning into these beliefs may feel more comfortable for you than the traditions prescribed by British history.
Though many people enjoy wearing their engagement rings and wedding bands together in a stack, there’s no rule that states this is a must. Your engagement ring is an incredibly precious piece of jewellery, and if you don’t feel it should share its space then you’re free to wear it however and whenever you like! For practical reasons, some opt only to wear their engagement ring on special occasions. Others might wish to secure it a special everyday spot over on the right ring finger once the wedding band comes along. Some might not wear their rings on their fingers at all, but instead hang them with pride on a necklace
How Do Brides in Other Countries Wear Their Engagement Rings?
While western tradition has heavily dictated how wedding rings are worn in many western countries, other countries follow different practices. Though many have followed the “vein of love” theory, historically, wedding rings have been worn on every finger during one instance or another—even the thumb. For example, some believed that the left came to be defined as evil or anti-Christian, opting to wear rings on the right hand instead.
Other countries follow their own traditions and reasons for choosing their right hand over their left. These include Germany, Spain, Norway, Austria, some parts of Belgium, Denmark, Poland, Latvia, Greece, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and Russia. Other country-specific traditions include:
- India: Traditional practice states that the left hand is considered unlucky and unclean, therefore leading many in India to wear their wedding ring on their right hand.
- Brazil: When couples get engaged in Brazil, both partners wear an engagement ring on their left hands. After vows are exchanged, they switch the rings to their right hands.
- Sweden and Chile: Both the man and woman wear an engagement ring on the right hand. During the wedding, the ring is moved to the left.
- China: In traditional Chinese culture, engaged couples would exchange money and other goods rather than engagement rings as a sign of their future union.
- Northern Kenya: Those in the Samburu Tribe living in Kenya wear ornate beadings around their neck with specific colors that symbolize engagement instead of wearing rings.
The reason why married couples wear rings on the left hand dates back in history, and it’s a tradition that continues to last in the modern world. Whether you and your future spouse choose to follow this cultural norm or not is entirely up to you.