Tradition, culture, and how to wear yours with confidence
When it comes to weddings, some traditions feel universal - white dresses, tiered cakes, emotional toasts. But when it comes to which hand the wedding ring goes on, things aren’t quite so standard.
Whether you’re newly engaged, prepping for your wedding day, or just curious, this guide explains what finger wedding rings are traditionally worn on, the meaning behind it, how different cultures handle it, and what to do with your engagement ring after you say "I do."
Spoiler: there’s no one “right” answer. But there are plenty of great options - and we’ll walk you through all of them.
In this article...
- What Is the Wedding Ring Finger?
- What is the “right” way to wear a wedding ring?
- Should the Ring Go on the Left or Right Hand?
- Cultural Differences in Wedding Ring Finger Tradition
- Can I Keep Wearing My Engagement Ring After Marriage?
- In What Order Should My Rings Go?
- What About Eternity Rings or Anniversary Bands?
- Do Men and Women Wear Their Wedding Rings Differently?
- Can Same-Sex Couples Choose Their Own Ring Traditions?
- What If I Don't Want To Wear a Wedding Ring At All?
What Is the Wedding Ring Finger?
In most Western countries, the wedding ring is traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand - commonly called the “ring finger.”
That’s the finger just next to your pinky. Simple, right?
This tradition goes back to the ancient Romans, who believed a vein - called the “vena amoris” or “vein of love” - ran directly from that finger to the heart. While that’s anatomically incorrect (modern medicine has since spoiled the romance), the symbolic meaning stuck around.
Today, the fourth finger is still seen as the natural place for both engagement and wedding rings. But not everywhere does it the same way.
What is the “right” way to wear a wedding ring?
In the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and most of Western Europe, it’s customary to wear your wedding ring on the left hand, ring finger. The engagement ring is usually worn on the same finger, either stacked above or moved after the ceremony.
This tradition is rooted in symbolism, convenience, and simply… habit. There’s no law. No requirement. It’s just what many couples choose to do.
So while the left-hand placement may feel like the “default”, that doesn’t make it the only option.
Should the Ring Go on the Left or Right Hand?
The left hand is more common in many Western cultures for a few practical reasons:
- It's closer to the heart (or so the legend goes).
Most people are right-handed, so wearing jewelry on the left protects it from excessive use or damage.
Cultural habits and wedding norms in the media often reinforce the left-hand tradition.
That said, plenty of countries and religions prefer the right hand, and there's no reason not to adopt those traditions - especially if they feel more meaningful or comfortable to you.
Cultural Differences in Wedding Ring Finger Tradition
Here’s how wedding ring traditions differ across cultures and countries:
Left-hand wedding ring cultures
United States & Canada: Left hand, fourth finger is the standard.
United Kingdom & Ireland: Also left hand. Engagement and wedding rings are typically stacked.
Australia & New Zealand: Follows British tradition - left hand.
France & Italy: Typically left hand, although some regions of Italy wear rings on the right.
South Africa: Left hand is most common.
Mexico & Brazil: Engagement ring is worn on the right hand, and then moved to the left after marriage.
India: Historically right hand (left was seen as less auspicious), but today many couples use the left, influenced by Western norms.
Right-hand wedding ring cultures
Germany: Wedding rings are worn on the right hand; engagement rings go on the left.
Russia: Right hand is traditional.
Poland: Right hand is common, though some regions vary.
Norway & Denmark: Right-hand wedding rings are standard.
Colombia & Venezuela: Engagement rings on the right, wedding bands move to the left - or vice versa.
Greece: Right-hand wedding ring tradition is strong, rooted in Orthodox Christian customs.
Israel: Varies widely; in some Jewish traditions, the wedding ring is placed on the right index finger during the ceremony, then moved.
Religious traditions
Jewish weddings: Traditionally, the ring is placed on the right index finger during the ceremony for symbolic reasons, and may later be moved to the left ring finger.
Islamic weddings: Rings are not required by religious law, but in cultures where rings are exchanged, they may be worn on either hand, depending on local tradition.
As with many customs, globalization and personal preference now play a major role. Couples often blend traditions to suit their heritage, religion, and style.
Can I Keep Wearing My Engagement Ring After Marriage?
Yes - absolutely.
The engagement ring doesn’t disappear after the wedding.
Most people continue wearing it, typically on the same finger as the wedding band.
Here’s how most wear it:
Stacked: The wedding band goes on first (closer to the heart), with the engagement ring above it.
Swapped: Some people move the engagement ring to the right hand or another finger, especially if stacking doesn’t feel comfortable or match their style.
Merged: Some couples opt for a custom ring that combines both, or solder them together for simplicity.
Your engagement ring is a significant part of your love story. How you wear it post-wedding is up to you.
In What Order Should My Rings Go?
Traditionally, the wedding ring is worn closest to your heart - so it goes on first, followed by the engagement ring.
This order stems from symbolism (love, then commitment) and practicality (easier to remove the engagement ring for cleaning or work without disturbing the wedding band).
However, this isn’t a hard rule. Some people:
- Wear their engagement ring on top, because they want it to be more visible.
- Flip the order for comfort or style.
- Wear rings on separate hands if stacking isn’t ideal for the setting design.
As with all things wedding - tradition is a guide, not a mandate.
What About Eternity Rings or Anniversary Bands?
Eternity rings (commonly given at anniversaries or to mark the birth of a child) are usually worn on the same finger as the wedding and engagement rings, but their position can vary.
Some stack it above the engagement ring, while others wear it between the two, or on the opposite hand altogether. It depends on the size, style, and how well the rings sit together.
If you’re planning ahead, consider how your engagement and wedding rings will work with future additions. (We’re happy to help with that, by the way.)
Do Men and Women Wear Their Wedding Rings Differently?
The general placement - left hand, ring finger - is the same for all genders in cultures that follow the Western tradition.
However, there are differences in style and stacking:
- Women often wear both engagement and wedding rings together.
- Men typically wear just the wedding band, although engagement rings for men are becoming more common.
- In right-hand ring cultures, men also follow the same placement custom.
Ultimately, there’s no gender rulebook. Choose what feels most personal and comfortable.
Can Same-Sex Couples Choose Their Own Ring Traditions?
Yes - and many do.
Same-sex couples often create their own ring traditions, with same sex wedding rings that reflect their relationship, values, and personal style.. There’s no expectation to follow traditional customs unless you want to.
You might:
- Exchange matching bands and wear them on the same finger.
- Wear your rings on opposite hands or different fingers.
- Design non-traditional rings that speak to your shared story.
This is one of the beautiful parts of marriage equality: your ring rules are your own.
What If I Don’t Want To Wear A Ring At All?
That’s entirely your choice.
Some people prefer not to wear rings due to work (e.g. healthcare, mechanics), discomfort, or personal preference.
Others wear necklaces with their ring on a chain, opt for tattoo rings, or use alternative materials like silicone bands.
A wedding ring is a symbol - but it’s not the commitment itself. What matters is what the ring means to you - not whether it’s on your left hand, right hand, or not at all.
Your Ring, Your Rules
Whether you wear your wedding ring on the left or right hand, stack it with your engagement ring, or go minimalist with a single band - it’s about what feels right for you.
Traditions offer guidance, but the most important thing is that your ring tells your story, in your way.
At Ben Garelick, we’ve helped couples of all cultures, identities, and preferences find the perfect rings - from timeless classics to completely custom designs. If you’re unsure about what to choose or how to wear your rings, our experts are always here to help - no pressure, just good advice.
Ready to find your forever ring? Explore our collection, or contact us for personal guidance, custom requests, and international shipping options.
