A circle has no beginning or end. That is why wedding rings symbolize a timeless union between two people. The culture of wearing wedding rings on the fourth finger of the left hand has an enduring and rich history behind it. From Romans to ancient Egyptians and to the hallways of western tradition, the ring finger has a varied history behind its significance as the engagement ring finger for women and men.
The Wedding Ring
The history of the wedding ring can be traced back to ancient times in Greece and Egypt where it was a custom for men to present a ring to their prospective brides. A symbol containing the promise of marriage. This practice is the central edifice upon which today’s wedding ring culture continues for man and woman ring finger.
Fourth Finger of the Left hand
Wedding rings and sometimes even the engagement ring is worn on the ring finger, or the fourth finger, of the left hand. Although rings can also sometimes be found on the right hand fourth finger, the fourth finger on the left hand remains prevalent as the chosen finger for rings. What is the reason behind this? Well, there are several centuries old theories behind this.
Beliefs of the Ring Finger
Throughout the history of mankind, the woman's wedding ring finger has been considered to be magical. For instance, in Chinese tradition, the ring finger is considered the - unnamed finger. Moreover there is also an ancient belief in China that says that when an individual leaves their parent’s home, builds lives away from their siblings, and has their children leave their home, what stays behind is the bond of a spouse. Another mythical connection exists between the ring finger and the ancient Romans. Contrary to modern knowledge, the ancient Romans believed that the ring finger has a vein that connects it directly to the heart. Hence the importance of the man and woman ring finger.
Because of this, the vein was often called - the vein of love. From this reference it became popular for wedding rings and sometimes engagement rings to be worn on the fourth finger of the left hand.
The Ring Finger’s More Practical Causes
The phenomenon of the fourth finger of the left hand is also explainable in a very practical context, that makes a lot of sense. The world is mostly right handed when it comes to everyday lives. So wearing your ring on the left hand means that the possibility of it coming into a damaging contact with anything is lessened. This keeps the expensive diamond rings safe and free for damage for years. Besides wedding rings, even watches and other accessories are worn on the left hand for the same reason. Irrespective of whether you are using a Diamond Chemistry engagement ring or a wedding band, it is for you to conclude which finger you are going to wear it on. Please note that when a person looks for a wedding ring on a man or a woman, it is usually the ring finger their gaze falls upon.
It should also be noted that not every culture uses the wedding ring finger as the left hand. In the cultures of Peru, Spain, India, Venezuela, Denmark and Norway they wear their wedding rings on the right hand. However, on the fourth finger nevertheless. These cultures believe in wearing the wedding ring on the right hand and the right hand is the more active of the two, hence symbolizing the strength of marriages. Following these myths, cultures, traditions and logic, it is for you to decide which hand and finger you will sport your wedding ring on.
Ultimately, irrespective of following your tradition or creating your own path, the significance of sporting a wedding band goes beyond the specific finger it is worn on. It’s a timeless symbol of love and commitment, representing a bond that is both personal and profound. Choosing the hand and finger for your ring should be a reflection of your personal beliefs, cultural heritage, and the unique bond you share with your partner.
At Diamond Chemistry, we understand that your wedding band and engagement ring are more than just jewelry—they’re symbols of a journey. Our unique designs in lab-grown diamond engagement rings and wedding bands are crafted to be a part of your love story. Begin your forever with Diamond Chemistry and celebrate a bond that’s uniquely yours.