Wedding Band: Which Finger?

There are many traditions and beliefs surrounding the wearing of wedding bands, and while there is no right way to wear one, many cultures have their own customs. In many Western cultures, the wedding band is traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, a practice that originated from the belief that this finger had a vein running directly to the heart – the vena amoris or vein of love. This tradition is upheld by many couples today, despite modern anatomical knowledge debunking the existence of such a vein. In some countries, including India, Germany, Spain, Norway, and Russia, wedding bands are traditionally worn on the right hand instead. Ultimately, the choice of which hand and finger to wear a wedding band on often comes down to personal or cultural preference, and there are no steadfast rules.

Wedding band on top of the engagement ring

There are many traditions and beliefs surrounding the placement of wedding bands and engagement rings. The most common tradition is to wear the wedding band closest to the heart, followed by the engagement ring. This custom is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt, where people thought that a vein in the fourth finger on the left hand, or the 'ring finger', led directly to the heart.

On the wedding day, the engagement ring is often moved to the right hand, and then moved back to the left hand after the wedding band has been placed. This is done to ensure that the wedding band is closest to the heart. Some brides choose to wear their engagement ring on their right hand during the ceremony and then move it to the left hand after the wedding.

There are several reasons why someone might choose to wear their wedding band on top of their engagement ring. One reason could be that they prefer the way it looks, or that it works better with the shape, size, and style of their rings. Another reason could be sentimental, with the belief that wearing the wedding band on the bottom keeps it closer to the heart. Some brides also choose to wear their engagement ring on their left hand and their wedding band on their right hand if the rings do not match or if they prefer not to stack multiple rings on one finger. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to wear your wedding and engagement rings, and it is up to the individual to decide what feels best for them.

Engagement ring on top of the wedding band

There is no right or wrong way to wear your wedding and engagement rings, and you should ultimately do what feels best for you. However, if you want to follow tradition, the wedding band typically goes on the bottom, followed by the engagement ring on top. This custom is based on the belief that the left-hand ring finger is connected to the heart through the 'vena amoris' or 'vein of love'. By placing the wedding band closest to the heart, it symbolises the solidification of the promise made between two people.

On the wedding day, the engagement ring is usually moved to the right hand, and then switched back to the left hand after the wedding band has been placed. Some brides choose to wear their engagement ring on top of the wedding band because they prefer the way it looks, or for sentimental reasons. It could also be a matter of practicality, as some ring styles or finger types may not work with the traditional stacking order.

There are no rules when it comes to wearing wedding and engagement rings. You can choose to wear them on separate hands, or even alternate between wearing them, especially if they are uncomfortable or do not match. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide how you want to showcase your rings.

Wear both rings on the left hand

There are several ways to wear both your engagement and wedding rings, and you can choose to follow tradition or create your own way. Here are some options for wearing both rings on your left hand:

Wear Them on the Ring Finger, Wedding Band on Top

This is the traditional way of wearing the rings, placing them on the fourth finger of your left hand, with the wedding band closest to your heart. This symbolises the start of your marriage and the fulfilment of the promises made to each other. However, this arrangement may not work with all ring styles or finger types.

Wear Them on the Ring Finger, Engagement Ring on Top

You can also wear both rings on the left-hand ring finger but with the engagement ring above the wedding band. Some people prefer this arrangement because they like the way it looks, or for sentimental reasons, feeling that wearing the wedding band on the bottom keeps it closer to the heart.

Wear the Engagement Ring on the Left Ring Finger and the Wedding Band on the Right Ring Finger

This option is less traditional but may be preferred by those with shorter fingers or those who don't like wearing multiple rings on one finger. It's also a good option if your rings don't match or if you want to display your engagement ring without distraction.

Alternate Between Rings

Some people choose not to wear both rings at the same time. This could be because one ring is very expensive and only worn on special occasions, or because wearing two rings at once feels too cluttered. Alternating between the rings can be a practical solution.

Ultimately, there is no "right" way to wear your wedding and engagement rings in the 21st century. You can follow tradition or create your own way, doing what feels best for you.

Wear both rings on the right hand

Wearing both wedding rings on the right hand is a common practice in many countries, including Greece, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Poland, Austria, Norway, Russia, Spain, and Portugal. This tradition can be traced back to the Romans, who wore their wedding rings on the right hand because they associated the left hand with untrustworthiness. In Orthodox Christian countries like Russia, the practice is also believed to have been inherited from the Romans through the Church.

In some cultures, wearing the wedding ring on the right hand holds religious significance. For example, in Jewish weddings, the ring is placed on the index finger of the right hand, signifying consecration and the purity of the marital commitment. In Hinduism, while wedding rings are not traditional, some modern couples may choose to exchange them and place them on the third finger of the right hand, symbolising a heart connection.

In addition to cultural and religious reasons, there are several practical reasons why someone might choose to wear their wedding ring on their right hand. For instance, left-handed individuals may find it more comfortable and convenient to wear their ring on their non-dominant hand. This way, the ring doesn't get in the way when they are writing, sketching, or performing other tasks.

Wearing the wedding ring on the right hand can also be a matter of personal preference or style. Some people may want to showcase their engagement and wedding rings separately, allowing each ring to shine without distraction. Others may have a ring they love and want to continue wearing it, so they move it to their right hand when they add their wedding band.

Ultimately, the decision to wear both wedding rings on the right hand can be influenced by a combination of cultural traditions, religious beliefs, practical considerations, and personal style choices.

Wear the engagement ring and wedding band on separate hands

Wearing your engagement ring and wedding band on separate hands is a great option if you want to showcase each ring individually. This is also a good option if you don't like how the rings look together. You can also wear your engagement ring on your right hand and your wedding band on your left if you live in countries such as Germany or the Netherlands, or if you're marrying someone from there.

Wearing your engagement ring and wedding band on separate hands can also be a good option if you have short fingers or simply don't like the feeling of multiple rings on one finger. You can also switch up your ring placement whenever you like—there are no rules dictating that you must stick to one arrangement!

In some cultures and countries, such as several Orthodox Christian communities, wedding rings are traditionally worn on the right hand. This frees up your dominant hand from any restrictions caused by an engagement ring.

If you're unsure about wearing your engagement ring and wedding band on separate hands, you can always try wearing them together on your left hand first. You can also wear your engagement ring on your right hand before the wedding and then switch it to your left hand during the ceremony.

Frequently asked questions