Wedding Band Placement: Inside Or Outside?

There are many traditions and beliefs surrounding the placement of wedding bands and engagement rings. In Western cultures, it is customary to wear the wedding band on the left hand, as it is believed that this finger has a vein connected directly to the heart. Some believe that the wedding band should be worn on the inside, closest to the heart, with the engagement ring stacked on top. However, others believe that the order of the rings does not matter and that it is a matter of personal preference. Ultimately, the decision of how to wear wedding and engagement rings is up to the individual.

Wedding band on the inside: tradition and symbolism

The wedding band is traditionally placed first on the left ring finger, followed by the engagement ring, which is placed on top. This custom is based on the belief that the fourth finger on the left hand contains a vein, the "vena amoris" or "vein of love," that runs directly to the heart. By wearing the wedding band closest to the heart, the couple symbolises their bonded commitment and eternal love.

The tradition of wearing the wedding band on the inside can be traced back to ancient times, with the ancient Greeks and Romans believed to be the originators. In Ancient Rome, it was customary for the wedding ring to be made of leather, ivory, or bone, with only the wealthy having access to precious metals like gold and silver. The practice of wearing the wedding band on the inside was also observed in the Christian church during the 12th century, when wedding ceremonies became sacramental.

Today, the tradition of wearing the wedding band on the inside is still widely practised, particularly in Western cultures. It is believed that wearing the wedding band closest to the heart symbolises the couple's love and commitment. Additionally, some couples choose to solder their wedding bands and engagement rings together, creating a single piece of jewellery that symbolises their eternal bond.

The shape of the wedding band, a circle, also holds symbolic meaning. The circle has long been associated with infinity and eternity, as it has no beginning and no end. In many cultures and religions, including Christianity and Islam, the circle represents monotheism and the infinite nature of God. The circle is also seen as a symbol of unity, democracy, and protection, making it a perfect representation of the union between two people in a marriage.

While the tradition of wearing the wedding band on the inside is prevalent, it is ultimately a personal choice. Some couples may choose to wear their rings in a different order or on different fingers altogether. Regardless of the order or placement, the wedding band continues to be a powerful symbol of love and commitment between two people.

Wedding band on the outside: a non-traditional approach

There are many traditions and beliefs surrounding the correct way to wear a wedding band, with some sources stating that wearing the wedding band on the inside is the correct way to wear it, as it is the ring closest to the heart. However, some people prefer to wear their wedding band on the outside, which is considered a non-traditional approach. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to wear your wedding band, and it is a matter of personal preference. Here are some reasons why someone might choose to wear their wedding band on the outside:

• It is a way to turn tradition on its head and be a trailblazer.
• The shape, size, and style of the rings work better worn in this way.
• In some non-western cultures, the wedding band is worn on the outside to signify fidelity, as it is never removed after the promise to marry.
• In late 1800s and early 1900s England, it was common to wear the engagement ring on the inside and a 'keeper ring' on the outside, as the engagement ring was often an inherited item and might fall off.
• Some people feel that wearing the wedding band on the outside makes the engagement ring feel more protected or secure.
• It can be a way to keep the engagement ring safe, especially when removing the wedding band for activities such as cleaning or showering.
• Some people prefer the look of the wedding band on the outside.
• It can be a way to create a unique stack or arrangement of rings, especially if you have multiple rings or bands.

So, if you are considering wearing your wedding band on the outside, know that you are joining a community of people who embrace non-traditional approaches and find symbolism and practicality in this choice.

Wearing rings on the right hand

Cultural Traditions

In many countries, wearing wedding and engagement rings on the right hand is a common cultural practice. This includes countries such as Greece, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Poland, Austria, Norway, Russia, Spain, Germany, Russia, Poland, India, Colombia, and Greece. In Eastern Orthodox Churches in the United States, for example, it is not uncommon for men to wear their wedding rings on the right hand.

Comfort and Practicality

For left-handed individuals, wearing a ring on the right hand can be more comfortable and practical. It keeps the ring away from the dominant hand, which is often used more frequently, reducing the risk of damaging an expensive ring. Additionally, certain professions that involve writing or sketching may find it more convenient to have the ring on the non-dominant hand.

Symbolism and Self-Expression

Wearing a ring on the right hand can be a form of self-expression and can carry different symbolic meanings. For instance, in some cultures, wearing a ring on the right hand can be a way to signal a gay or lesbian relationship or to declare economic independence for women. It can also be a way to showcase a family heirloom or an antique ring with sentimental value.

Style and Aesthetics

Sometimes, the decision to wear a ring on the right hand is purely a matter of style and aesthetics. Individuals may have a ring they love and want to continue wearing after marriage, so they choose to wear it on the right hand along with their wedding band. This allows them to showcase multiple rings without overcrowding a single finger.

Safety and Lifestyle Considerations

For individuals with active lifestyles or jobs that require frequent hand use, wearing a ring on the right hand can be a safer option. It reduces the risk of damaging or losing the ring during physical activities or manual labour. Additionally, some individuals may choose to wear their wedding band on the right hand to avoid a noticeable ring tan.

Wearing only the wedding band

There are many reasons why someone might choose to wear only their wedding band, and it is becoming an increasingly common choice. Some people prefer the simplicity of a single ring, while others have careers or lifestyles that are not suited to wearing an engagement ring. For example, a baker who prepares dough daily might find it easier to go without their engagement ring, to avoid losing it. Similarly, someone with an active lifestyle that involves a lot of sports or heavy-handed work might opt for a more substantial wedding band design that can be worn on its own.

Wearing only a wedding band is also a practical choice for those who don't have an engagement ring that matches their wedding band, or who don't like the way the two rings look together. Some people also choose to wear their engagement ring on their right hand and their wedding band on their left, which is a common practice in countries such as Germany and the Netherlands.

Ultimately, there are no rules when it comes to wearing your wedding band and engagement ring. It is a matter of personal preference, and you should choose what feels right for you.

Soldering rings together

Soldering is the process of fusing two rings together to form one bridal set. It is an important decision as once the rings are bonded, they are not easily separated.

Pros of Soldering Rings Together

Soldering your rings together can:

• Prevent corrosion and reduce wear and tear by stopping the rings from rubbing against each other.
• Stop the rings from sliding around on your finger.
• Create a more comfortable fit by preventing pinching and reducing the movement of the centre stone.

Cons of Soldering Rings Together

However, soldering your rings together also means that:

• You will have to wear both rings at all times.
• You will not be able to resize your rings without first separating them.
• You will not be able to wear your rings individually.
• Separating the rings can be difficult and may damage the rings.

Frequently asked questions