A proposal is a momentous occasion in your relationship. It is the step that you take together towards a life of shared love, memories, and milestones. When you ask, “Will you marry me?” and they say “Yes”, you will place the engagement ring on their finger, sealing the magical moment with a symbol of eternal love and unity.
Before starting the beginning of your beautiful journey, you need to know which finger to place the engagement ring on. While there might be a few differences in tradition for the choice of hand, the ring finger remains consistent.
In this guide, we cover which finger and hand to place the engagement ring on.
Whether you place the engagement ring on the left ring finger, or the right ring finger will depend on your cultural norms, traditions, and personal preferences.
We highlight when to wear an engagement ring on the left or right hand:
This practice is rooted in Ancient Roman belief. The fourth finger on the left hand was thought to house a vein that flowed directly to the heart, called the 'Vena Amoris' or 'Vein of Love'. This romantic concept positions the left ring finger as a potent symbol of love and commitment.
In Russia, for example, the right hand is seen as the symbol of an oath, making it an appropriate place to wear a ring that signifies a promise of commitment. This practice can be traced back to Orthodox Christian rituals where the right hand is used for taking vows and blessings.
In Latin American cultures, such as in Brazil, the engagement ring is initially worn on the right hand during the engagement period. During the wedding ceremony, the ring is then switched to the left ring finger, making a symbolic journey from promise to commitment.
Whether it's the left or right hand, the most important element is the commitment the ring signifies. The ring should capture the love you share, and its placement on the finger is a testament to your everlasting bond.
An important thing to consider is choosing a ring to flatter your hand and finger. Choosing the perfect engagement ring should consider the shape and size of your partner’s hands and fingers. This will ensure that the ring suits your partner and radiates your affection.
The reason behind this ordering is to keep the wedding ring closest to the heart, symbolising the sacred vows of marriage. The order in which you wear these rings is down to your personal preference.
How you choose to wear your rings should reflect your style and the symbolism that is most meaningful to you. The decision to wear other rings on your ring finger comes down to personal preference and cultural customs.
Fashion rings or other symbolic rings can also be worn on the ring finger, especially if they hold personal significance. It is important to be careful wearing multiple rings on the same finger, as this may take attention away from the engagement or wedding rings.
Some of the most common Q&A's
Wedding and engagement rings do not need to be made of the same metal. However, choosing the same metal ensures they wear at the same rate, which helps maintain the appearance of the set over time. It also presents a cohesive aesthetic, which many couples prefer.
Platinum is considered the strongest and most durable metal for rings. Its resistance to wear and tarnish makes it ideal for everyday jewellery like engagement rings. Despite its higher cost, many people consider the durability and lasting lustre of platinum to be worth the investment.
