While the Western World’s long-standing tradition of wearing your wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand is still popular, many people choose to wear their ring on the right hand. Whether it’s for comfort or cultural reasons, wearing your wedding ring on the right hand is totally acceptable.
Which Finger Is Your “Wedding Ring Finger?”
Traditionally, your wedding ring finger is the fourth finger of your left hand – the same finger as your engagement ring. Although this tradition is long-standing, some people choose to wear their wedding ring on their right hand for a number of reasons.
Why Does Your Wedding Ring Go On Your Left Hand?
The tradition of placing your wedding ring on the fourth finger of your left hand originates from the Roman Empire. During this time, Ancient Romans believed that this finger had a vein called the “Vena Amoris,” or vein of love, that pointed directly to the heart. Wearing a wedding ring on this finger was seen as a romantic gesture to show their commitment to that lifeline.
Can I Wear My Wedding Ring On My Right Hand?
While this tradition remains, many people choose to wear their wedding rings on their right hand. You may choose to do this because you’re left handed, or perhaps you follow different cultural customs.
Which Cultures Wear Their Wedding Rings On Their Right Hand?
While the tradition of placing wedding bands on the left hand originates from Rome, there are plenty of countries that do the opposite. Here are a few countries where married couples wear their rings on their right hand:
- Austria
- Bulgaria
- Denmark
- Germany
- Latvia
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Russia
- Ukraine
- India
- Peru
- Venezuela
In some countries, like India, wearing your wedding ring on your left hand is even considered unlucky. Despite what tradition tells us, you’re free to wear your wedding band however it feels comfortable.
Do The Same Rules Apply To Engagement Rings?
Traditionally, your engagement ring goes on the same finger as your wedding band: the fourth finger on your left hand. Most people in the United States wear the engagement ring on that finger until their wedding day, when the wedding ring is also placed on this finger.
Many people like the sentimentality of this tradition, while others wear one ring on both hands, or move both rings over to their right hand. There’s no “rules” when wearing your engagement and wedding rings – the choice is yours!
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