Which Hand Does the Wedding Ring Go On?
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Tradition, religion and culture have the biggest influence on where you place your wedding ring, with the fourth finger of each hand (known as the ring finger) serving as the most popular placement for wearing wedding rings worldwide. What varies is whether the wedding ring is worn on the right hand or the left.
In many Western cultures such as The United States and The United Kingdom, the wedding ring goes on the fourth finger of the left hand. Other countries, including Germany, Norway, Spain, and Russia, have the tradition of wearing wedding rings on the fourth finger of the right hand. In Switzerland, some people choose to wear their wedding ring on their left ring finger and their engagement ring on their right ring finger.
History of the Left Hand Ring Finger
The tradition of wearing wedding and engagement rings on the ring finger of the left hand dates to Ancient Roman times. Back then, scholars thought that the fourth finger on the left hand had a special vein called the “vena amoris” (“vein of love”), which ran straight to the heart. Though today it’s understood that all veins connect to the heart, many cultures still honor the romantic sentiment of wearing wedding rings on the fourth finger of the left hand.
History of the Right Hand Ring Finger
The tradition of wearing wedding rings on the fourth finger of the right hand is largely linked to Orthodox Christian traditions. The right hand is associated with honor, strength, faithfulness, and virtue. It is believed that wearing your wedding ring on this hand represents a commitment to these principles, while also reflecting religious values.
FAQs About Wearing Wedding Rings
Does the wedding ring go on the left or right finger?
Wedding rings are most commonly worn on the fourth finger of either hand next to the pinky. Generally, Western cultures have the wedding ring on the ring finger of the left hand, while other countries in Eastern Europe often wear the wedding ring on the fourth finger of the right hand.
Why do some people wear a wedding ring on their right hand?
Many people wear their wedding ring on their right hand to honor their religious or cultural traditions. As with all jewelry, some people simply make personal choices to wear their wedding ring on a specific hand.
Do men wear wedding rings on the same hand as women?
Generally, people in the same culture will wear women’s or men’s wedding rings on the same hand. So, if you wear your wedding ring on the ring finger of your left hand, your partner will likely do the same.
What finger does a promise ring go on?
In many Western cultures, promise rings are worn on the ring finger of the right hand to avoid confusion with wedding rings.
How do I find the right ring size?
You can use our free sizers to find the right ring size.
Can I wear an anniversary band with my wedding ring?
Yes, you can stack an anniversary ring with your wedding ring. These rings often showcase milestone anniversaries or other memorable moments in a marriage and are thus worn on the same finger as a wedding ring. Anniversary bands are often stacked alongside matching women’s wedding rings, men’s rings or gender neutral designs.
Celebrating Love with Wedding Rings
Wedding rings symbolize commitment, love and fidelity. Whether you wear your ring on your right hand or left, you’re showcasing your promise to your partner and your unique love story.
