Have you ever thought of a question: Why do couples wear the wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand? Can’t it be put on any other finger? There really is no set rule for which finger you are to wear your wedding ring on, but in most cultures, the traditional finger is that of the fourth finger of the left hand.
Why the fourth finger on the left hand is termed a ring finger?
The custom of placing a wedding band on the left hand’s fourth finger has ancient roots. Ancient Egyptians believed that the “vena amoris,” also known as the love vein, extended from the heart directly to this specific finger.
Consequently, partners would exchange rings to be worn on that finger, signifying the depth of their love. However, modern science indicates that all fingers have veins connecting to the heart. Therefore, the decision on which finger to don a wedding ring is a personal choice, reflective of a couple’s unique bond.
Can I Wear My Wedding Ring and Engagement Ring on the Same Finger?
In most cases, the wedding band lies at the base of the knuckle, below the engagement ring. Some wear both rings on the same finger together, as that is a matter of personal choice, and seeing the two rings together can remind the couple of their love.
Sometimes, the bride wears the engagement ring on the opposite hand finger during the ceremony, returning it to its place on the ring finger or placing it on the wedding ring finger later. Some people even solder both rings to strengthen the bond of marriage.
What if I prefer To Wear My Engagement Ring and Wedding Ring in separate Hands?
If either rings are large or of the same size, wearing them together on one finger might not be comfortable. In such instances, sporting one on a different finger, such as the middle finger of the right hand, could offer a touch of elegance. Should the engagement and wedding rings differ markedly in design, you might prefer to wear them individually. It’s important to remember that finger sizes often vary between the left and right hands. Additionally, if a bride wishes to transfer a diamond wedding ring from the left hand’s fourth finger to the right, it may be necessary to adjust the ring’s size for a proper fit.
Professional Jewellers can even resize diamond wedding rings or even diamond wedding bands for women and men both without compromising on the look or style.
What Type of Wedding Band Should You Choose?
Choosing a metal or diamond wedding ring depends on what kind of band is best for you. First, you should decide what kind of metal band you would like. One hopes to wear the wedding ring for life, so choose a lasting metal and stone. Gold is the most popular metal, and it can be found in colors such as yellow, rose, or white. Additionally, alternative metal choices are available, like platinum, palladium, or tungsten.
Then, select your gemstone — be it dazzling diamonds or radiant rubies — or design a bespoke ring to your taste. If you want different rings for your wedding and engagement, you can choose a diamond engagement ring and ruby or any gemstone of your choice for your wedding band.
What’s the Best Way To Measure My Ring Size?
You can always try it at home by measuring the size of the ring, but when it’s down to something as important as a wedding band, you must visit a professional. A professional jeweler uses a set of ring sizes like a keychain, to which they attach differently-sized bands. You’ll have to try on several of the attached bands to find the perfect fit for your finger.
Bear in mind that the wider the wedding ring band, the smaller your ring size may become. Also, remember that your hands normally swell later in the day and during the warmer months. The ring would feel quite snug around your finger on a nice, cool spring day. The same ring would feel tight if one tried to wear it in the heat of a summer afternoon. Similarly, give the size for your wedding ring only when the temperature around is warm and there is no swelling in your hands; otherwise, it will become loose and can slip.
If you do not exactly know your ring size, the professional will help you find the correct ring for your finger, no matter the time of the year. In case you are looking for wedding rings for women or diamond wedding bands for women look for stores that are prominent and well-known.
Ultimately, when exchanging rings, the significance lies not in which finger the ring adorns but in the love and commitment it represents. As couples take this journey of marriage, the wedding ring becomes a cherished symbol of their everlasting bond, regardless of its placement on the hand.