What Hand Does the Engagement Ring Go On?

In many western cultures, the traditional engagement ring is worn on the left hand. For thousands of years, the exchanging of rings has symbolized love, promise, and devotion. In the United States, it is common to wear the engagement ring on the fourth finger of the left hand, also known as the “ring finger.” However, this practice varies around the world, and different cultures follow unique customs.

What Finger Does the Engagement Ring Go On?

The tradition of wearing the engagement ring on the fourth finger of the left hand is believed to have originated with the ancient Romans. They thought this finger contained a vein, the “Vena Amoris” or “Vein of Love,” which was believed to run directly to the heart. This belief made the left hand the ideal location for the engagement ring, symbolizing love and commitment. In many cases, people stack their wedding and engagement rings on the same finger, while others may choose to wear the rings separately.

What Do Other Cultures Do?

While the left hand is traditionally used for engagement rings in many Western countries, several other cultures have different practices. In Latin, “left” means “sinister,” which is why some cultures find it unlucky to wear the engagement ring on the left hand. Instead, these countries choose the right hand for the engagement ring:

• Russia
• Germany
• Norway
• India
• Greece
• Colombia

In Sweden and Chile, both men and women commonly wear engagement rings, often on the right hand. On the wedding day, the rings are transferred to the left hand.

The History of Engagement Rings

The history of the engagement ring dates back to 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy, marking the beginning of diamond engagement rings. Diamonds were chosen for their rarity and strength, symbolizing the enduring nature of love and commitment. As the hardest natural substance, diamonds have become the symbol of an unbreakable bond, just like the relationship they represent.

How Are Wedding Rings Worn?

While some people stack their engagement and wedding rings, others follow a specific tradition. During the wedding ceremony, the wedding ring is typically placed on the left hand, over the “Vein of Love,” while the engagement ring is worn on the right hand. After the ceremony, many people move the engagement ring to the left hand, placing it on top of the wedding ring.

Visiting a Professional

While it is common practice in Western cultures to wear the engagement ring on the left hand, countries like Russia, Germany, and India prefer the right hand. The tradition of placing the ring on the left hand stems from ancient Roman beliefs about the “Vein of Love.” Regardless of where you place the ring, it symbolizes your love, devotion, and commitment to your significant other.

At The 1916 Company, we can help you select the perfect engagement ring. No matter what style you’re looking for, you’ll receive expert care and personalized service. Make an appointment at a showroom near you to find the engagement ring of your dreams.

Frequently Asked Questions About Engagement Rings

• What hand does the engagement ring go on? Engagement rings are traditionally worn on the left hand’s ring finger, also known as the “Vein of Love” finger, in many cultures, though some countries prefer the right hand.
• What finger is the engagement ring worn on? The engagement ring is typically worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, also called the “ring finger.” Some cultures wear it on the right hand.
• Why does the engagement ring go on the left hand? The left hand’s ring finger was believed by the ancient Romans to contain a vein that ran directly to the heart, symbolizing love and devotion.
• Do engagement rings go on the right hand in other countries? Yes, countries like Russia, Germany, Norway, and India place engagement rings on the right hand, contrary to the common practice of the left hand in the West.