On which hand is the engagement ring worn?
Around the world, engagement rings symbolize "love for the rest of one's life," a new common chapter in which the two selves become ME. The practices and customs of wearing engagement rings vary from culture to culture, and in this text we present the most interesting reviews of the timeless ritual of love.
Many couples around the world are faced with a dilemma from the title that gives them sweet torments and a little headache - on which hand is this famous symbol of our love worn? Diamond engagement rings have been a part of wedding rituals for thousands of years, widespread in cultures around the world. They have become universally recognized as the objectification of promise, piety and eternal love - because the diamond is one of the few things on planet Earth that lasts forever.
The famous question, "Do you want to marry me?" Was followed by butterflies in the stomach, blush on the cheeks and a trembling voice. With all the nervousness and excitement, the young man has another task in front of him - to "lay" the ring on his right hand and finger.
Traditions of wearing an engagement ring in different cultures
In many western countries, the tradition of wearing an engagement ring on the fourth finger of the left hand dates back to the ancient Romans. As true romantics, the Romans believed that from this finger came a vein that ran directly to the heart, known as the Vena Amoris, meaning "vein of love." As the heart is the epicenter of our emotions, this finger was considered the best place to proudly point out your engagement ring - which loudly tells the world - "my heart is busy".
Wearing an engagement ring on the left hand is not a global tradition. In Russia, Germany, Norway and India, engagement rings are worn on the right hand. In these cultures, the left hand is considered sinful and unhappy. Namely, this belief is related to the Latin word "sinister" which means left and in free translation has negative contations.
On the other hand, the Latin word dexter, means right, but also values such as dexterity, skill, readiness and wit. That is why the engagement ring in these countries is traditionally worn on the right little finger. This is a practice that is respected in many Orthodox countries.
Customs on the other side of the world
In Sweden and Chile, engagement rings are also worn by men, not just women. In Chile, these rings are worn on the right hand until marriage, when they are transferred to the left hand. Not only the engagement ring was exchanged as a sign of the upcoming wedding ceremony. In China, money and other goods are traditionally exchanged instead of engagement rings.
In northern Kenya, Samburu warriors wear decorated beads around their necks, with certain colors used to mark future newlyweds. Impressive, isn't it? An engagement ring is more than a piece of beautiful jewelry!
It is a promise, a vow, an introduction to a new chapter in life. Without beginning and end, the circle as the shape of the wedding ring is considered a symbol of eternity, common destiny and devotion.
From today to always, and after always. Is there a stronger force in the world than your love? If you have managed to find the person with whom you feel peace and stability, the desire to share all life's moments and challenges, we congratulate you from the bottom of our hearts.
What happens with engagement ring on the wedding day?
There is no single answer to this question - it is a matter of personal choice of the bride. Some women decide to put a wedding ring over the engagement ring of their right hand. On the other hand, there are those who, for practical reasons, transfer the engagement ring to the little finger of the left hand, and keep the wedding ring on the left hand. Whatever you decide, it is important to follow your feelings and not be enslaved to old habits.
