Which Finger Is The Ring Finger?

When it comes to wearing rings, many people are unsure of which hand and finger is the right one. The answer often depends on the type of ring in question: engagement, wedding, promise, or eternity. Traditions can also vary depending on the culture, gender, relationship status, and even personal preference of the wearer.

Whether you’re planning to propose, preparing to say “I do”, or simply curious about this longstanding tradition, this guide will explain everything you need to know about ring placement.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Origins of the ring finger
• What hand does the wedding ring go on?
• Which countries wear wedding rings on the right hand?
• Does the wedding ring always go on the ring finger?
• Does wedding ring placement differ by gender?
• Is it bad luck to wear a ring on your wedding finger before marriage?
• Which finger and hand is for the engagement ring?
• What finger does a promise ring go on?
• What about an eternity ring?
• Ring placement at a glance

Origins of the ring finger

In Western cultures, the wedding ring typically goes on fourth finger on the left hand — commonly called the ring finger. This custom dates back centuries and is rooted in the ancient belief of the vena amoris — Latin for ‘vein of love’. According to this belief, the vein ran directly from the fourth finger to the heart.

Mineralogist George Frederick Kunz traced this idea back to ancient Rome, crediting the Roman writer Macrobius with popularising the concept. The belief spread throughout the Western world and remained widely accepted throughout the Medieval period.

Although modern anatomy has disproven the existence of the vena amoris, the tradition remains a powerful symbol of romantic commitment.

Which countries wear wedding rings on the right hand?

While many Western cultures traditionally wear the wedding ring on the left hand, there are several countries where the right hand is the customary choice. In these regions, the wedding band is typically worn on the fourth finger of the right hand, symbolising love and commitment just as it does on the left.

Countries where the wedding ring is commonly worn on the right hand include:

• Germany
• Russia
• Hungary 
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Belarus
• Serbia
• Ukraine
• Greece
• Austria

In some cultures, this tradition is rooted in symbolism or spiritual beliefs. In India, for example, the right hand is considered by some to be more auspicious, so wedding rings can be worn on the right to attract good fortune (WeddingWire).  

In other cultures, the ring may be worn on one hand before the wedding and then moved to the other after the ceremony, the symbolic shift marking the transition from engagement to marriage. A notable example is Brazil, where both partners wear their rings on the right hand during the engagement period, then switch them to the left hand as part of the wedding ritual (BBC).

Does the wedding ring always go on the ring finger?

In most cultures, the wedding ring is placed on the fourth finger of either the right or left hand. However, there is at least one culture where the ring is placed on a different finger. In Jewish tradition, the wedding ring is often placed on the bride’s index finger by the groom as part of the wedding ceremony (The United Synagogue). Sometimes, it is moved onto the ring finger afterwards.

Does wedding ring placement differ by gender?

In most regions, men and women wear their wedding rings on the same hand — usually the fourth finger or either the left or right hand, depending on their culture. However, there are some exceptions where gender influences ring placement.

For example, in Sri Lankan culture, men’s wedding rings are often worn on the right hand, and women’s on the left. 

Gender can also determine the type of metal used in wedding rings. In Islam, men do not traditionally wear gold, so Muslim men might choose to wear a silver or cobalt wedding ring instead. 

Is it bad luck to wear a ring on your wedding finger before marriage?

You might have heard the superstition that wearing a ring on your wedding finger before you’re married or engaged is bad luck. In reality, there’s nothing inherently unlucky about it. 

However, some people believe that wearing a ring on your left ring finger can give the impression that you’re already in a committed relationship or married. As a result, potential partners might assume you’re unavailable and be less likely to approach you.

So, if you’re hoping to signal that you're single and open to meeting someone, it might be worth leaving your ring finger free — just in case!

Which finger and hand is for the engagement ring?

In most Western cultures, an engagement ring is traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand — the same finger commonly used for wedding rings. After marriage, many people choose to wear both the engagement and wedding rings on the same finger, typically stacking the wedding ring below the engagement ring. 

As with wedding rings, engagement ring traditions can vary by culture, religion, and personal preference. For example: 

• After marriage, some people choose to wear only their wedding rings. This is especially common when the engagement ring contains a soft gemstone, or requires frequent cleaning and care.
• In the UK, it’s traditionally only women who wear engagement rings. However, engagement rings for men are gaining popularity. In countries like Chile, Sweden, and Brazil, it’s common for both partners to wear engagement rings during the engagement period (BBC). 
• In countries where the wedding ring is worn on the right hand, such as Russia and Germany, the engagement ring is also worn on the right.
  

What finger does a promise ring go on? 

While customs may vary, the symbolism behind each ring remains consistent: a representation of love, commitment, and a couple’s unique journey. Whether you follow tradition or forge your own path, your ring is a personal expression of what matters most. When it comes to choosing which hand and finger to wear it on, the most important thing is selecting the placement that feels right for you, your relationship, and your cultural values.

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