Much is said and written about the correct way to wear engagement and wedding rings. The fact is, of course, that different cultures and traditions have their own ’correct’ way and these change as years go by.
Some wedding ring traditions
In many western countries the wedding ring is worn on the third finger or ring finger, of the left hand. This tradition developed from the time of the ancient Greeks who believed that there was a vein running directly from that finger to the heart; it was called the ‘vena amoris’ or ‘vein of love’. It was therefore considered appropriate for the wedding ring, a symbol of love and devotion, to be worn there. The tradition has continued despite the lack of any scientific evidence for the existence of the ‘vena amoris’.
Even among western countries traditions vary. In the Netherlands, for example, Protestants wear their wedding rings on the right hand and their engagement rings on the left. Roman Catholics, however, do the opposite as they do in Germany. In other parts of Europe, they wear the wedding ring on the left hand before the wedding but after the ceremony move it to the right.
Jews often follow the tradition of their forefathers and place the ring on the bride’s index finger - the one they believed was closest to the heart. These days, the bride usually moves it to the ring finger when the wedding is over.
In India, wedding rings are worn on the right hand as the left is thought to be inauspicious. In some parts of the country a ‘bichiya’, or toe ring is preferred, while in eastern parts of the country married women are expected to wear an iron bangle.
Engagement rings
The wearing of engagement ring has become a common practice in the modern era. It symbolises love and commitment to an intended spouse. In times gone by, however, engagement rings also symbolised wealth and an indication of the groom’s ability to provide for his bride. They also acted as financial insurance in case the couple fell on hard times.
Wearing your engagement and wedding rings
Tradition has it that your wedding ring should never be removed. The engagement ring, which most women do not wear all the time for practical reasons, should therefore be worn above it. Some also believe that, worn in this way, the engagement ring protects the wedding ring and so ensures a good marriage. To keep to this tradition, brides often wear their engagement ring on the right hand during the marriage ceremony and move it to the left when the ceremony is over.
While many people like to stick to their own traditions, there is no right and wrong way to wear your rings – only that which you prefer. Many women nowadays simply adopt the Western way of wearing their wedding rings on the ring finger of the left hand irrespective of their own traditions. It is purely a matter of choice. And if you are looking to buy a ring, use the Goldsmiths ring sizer to ensure you get a perfect fit.
