Which hand to wear your engagement and wedding rings on is often dictated by tradition or culture. Depending on the country you live in, or where your family hails from, you might wear your engagement or wedding rings on your right hand, left hand, or even both.
But of course, modern brides and grooms are creating their own take on tradition. So before you make your own decision, we explore which hand to wear your rings on.
What hand should I wear my engagement ring?
We have the ancients to thank for the beautiful tradition of giving engagement rings . In the Greek and Roman worlds, a groom would give a bride a ring as a symbol of his desire to marry her, designating the engagement ring finger as a special symbol of their union. Over time, the engagement ring has come to be a symbol of love and commitment.
Here in the UK, as in the US, it is tradition to wear the engagement ring on the fourth finger of the left hand - also known as the ring finger. Behind this is the belief there is a vein in this finger, called the Vena Amoris, which leads directly to the heart. This vein creates a connection between two symbols of love and romance.
The left hand ring finger is also significant for promise rings and wedding rings, emphasizing the importance of this choice in conveying commitment.
But however romantic that sounds, it is not the only custom. There are many countries in which wearing an engagement ring on the right hand is more common. For some, the right hand is considered to be the hand of God. Wearing the engagement ring on this hand is a blessing for the relationship.
Nowadays, tradition has shifted a little. Engagement rings are not just for women or for straight couples, and men are not the only ones to propose. So as with any tradition, you can choose your own approach. For instance, some men might prefer to wear their engagement rings on the right hand, to avoid it being mistaken for a wedding band before they are actually married.
What hand does the wedding ring go on?
Once again, wedding rings are an ancient tradition. From the days of ancient Egypt, exchanging wedding rings has been a symbol of eternal love and commitment.
In the UK, the wedding ring is usually worn alongside the engagement ring on the wedding ring finger. Even if you choose not to wear a full bridal stack after your wedding, the wedding band itself is most typically worn on the fourth finger of your left hand. However in some countries, such as Germany and Russia, it is traditional to wear the wedding ring on the right hand.
Customs aside, some people choose to wear their engagement and wedding rings on different hands anyway - one on the left, one on the right.
Ultimately, how you wear your wedding ring is a personal choice and can reflect your individual style and cultural background.
These days, wedding rings don’t just have to be an unbroken band of plain gold. Design-led and diamond set bands are popular, as are decorative enhancers. If you’ve deliberately chosen ornate or statement pieces for your wedding and/or engagement rings, they might not stack comfortably together. In this case, wearing them on opposite hands might be the answer.
(Of course, if do you wish your rings would stack together, you could consider a remodel.)
What hand does an eternity ring go on?
An eternity ring is typically given or bought to celebrate a significant milestone or special event, such as an anniversary or becoming a parent. Traditionally, this ring would feature an unbroken line of diamonds or other precious stones, a symbol of the eternal love between the couple. Similarly, a promise ring can symbolize a commitment before engagement, often representing a promise of future engagement or a shared future.
Eternity rings are a much newer tradition than wedding or engagement rings. Here in the UK, we would usually add an eternity ring to your bridal stack, on the fourth finger of the left hand. A glittering band is a beautiful accent to your wedding and engagement rings - and not to mention meaningful, too.
Promise rings, on the other hand, can be worn on various fingers depending on personal or cultural traditions, often reflecting the promise and commitment between couples.
However, not everyone wants to have a three-ring stack. Particularly if you have a penchant for wider rings - or you have small hands - three rings may not be comfortable to wear.
To solve the issue, plenty of people choose to wear their eternity ring alongside their bridal rings, on the middle fingers of the left hand. Others will choose the ring finger of their right hand, to mirror their bridal stack.
Although there are long traditions and meaningful symbolism behind each choice, which finger you wear your engagement, eternity, and wedding rings on is a very personal choice.
How we can help!
If you're looking to find the perfect engagement ring, wedding ring or eternity ring - we can guide you through ring sizes and styling, to help create the perfect set for your lifestyle and relationship. Schedule a personal consultation, by Zoom or in-person.
What Our Customers Think
"After visiting several retailers in Hatton Garden, I decided to work with Harper Tait to source the diamond and create a bespoke engagement ring. From start to finish, the service was nothing short of exceptional. Paul’s dedication, expertise, and attention to detail resulted in a ring that is absolutely perfect. I couldn't be happier with the outcome and the overall experience. Harper Tait has earned my trust, and I will undoubtedly return for any future fine jewellery needs. Many thanks again to Paul for his outstanding work!"
Why do people wear their wedding ring on their right hand?
Wearing your wedding ring on your right hand could be for cultural reasons or simply choice! In some countries, such as Germany, your wedding ring is traditionally worn on this hand, unlike the left ring finger which is often associated with the 'Vena Amoris' and symbolizes commitment. Other people simply prefer to take a different approach, perhaps wearing one ring on each hand.
Do you wear your eternity ring with your wedding ring?
In UK tradition, the engagement and wedding ring, along with the eternity ring, are usually worn together in a single ‘bridal stack’. However, some people prefer to separate the rings out, perhaps because it is more comfortable that way, particularly if the pieces are large in size or width.
It’s perfectly fine to wear your rings on different fingers or hands - you’ll know the symbolism and meaning of each one.
Can you wear your eternity ring on your right hand?
Of course! An eternity ring is just as meaningful whichever finger you wear it on, and makes a beautiful right-hand ring. Some people even choose eternity rings for themselves - our delicate micro pavé styles make elegant stackers. Interestingly, just as some men now choose to wear an engagement ring, eternity rings are also becoming a popular choice for men to signify commitment.
