Ah, engagement rings. How many times have we swooned over movies in the scene where the hero takes a jewelry box out of his pocket, produces a stunning engagement ring, and asks, “Will you marry me?”
The movies got it right, and such an important gift needs to be perfect and every detail about it relevant! For example, the question of what hand to wear engagement jewelry is one we often get at Skeie’s Jewelers. In this article, we discuss the answer to this question and how to combine an engagement ring with your wedding band later (Yes, we like to think ahead!).
Right or left hand?
According to tradition, the engagement ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand.
Once couples get married, a wedding ring is usually added to the engagement ring and worn stacked against it.
The tradition of wearing bridal rings on the left hand comes from a widespread belief—popularized in Roman times—that a small artery passed right from the left ring finger directly to the heart.
While this is not scientifically correct, it is very romantic, and because of it the tradition has passed on from generation to generation in most parts of the western world.
The truth is, it depends on where you are. Countries like Germany wear the engagement ring on the right hand while other cultures even have the right index finger as the receiver of such rings.
If you are in America, you will often see an engagement ring on the ring finger of the left hand. The spot has retained its symbolic meaning: a direct connection to the heart, where our most tender emotions are.
What should I do with my engagement ring after my wedding day?
Well, engagement rings will always symbolize the sweet moment when you were proposed. You don’t have to let go of this deep attachment just because a new ring comes along.
Your engagement ring can be worn with the wedding band for the rest of your life, on the same ring finger of the left hand, as a sign of the bond that started with your engagement proposal.
Many brides like wearing the engagement ring on the right hand on the wedding day. Then after exchanging vows, they move the engagement ring on top of the wedding ring so that the wedding ring stays “closer” to their heart.
Wear it where it feels right
When the proposal comes, the adrenaline and love coursing through your system will make you think of the sweet and wonderful things to come. The many adventures, decisions, support, and care. So, it’s all good! You can afford to wear your favorite jewelry as you like, in the way you see better represents this connection!
Surveys and our experiences simply show that there is no rule and that depending on the ring design, fit, and your preferences, you can decide to place the engagement ring on your right hand without being afraid.
Whatever hand your family traditions, religion, and culture prompt you to choose, find a ring that will be a symbol of your devotion for years to come.
