Engagement ring: Which hand is the right one?

You often ask us on which hand to wear the engagement ring. The question is not so straightforward to answer, as there is no rule that dictates where the engagement ring must be worn. In some countries, the engagement ring is worn on the left hand, while in others it is worn on the right. Everyone is completely free in their decision about where to wear the engagement ring after the engagement. Nevertheless, many adhere to the German tradition and wear the engagement ring on the left ring finger.

In the following journal, we want to provide you with some answers and information on the topic.

In Germany, the engagement ring is traditionally worn on the ring finger of the left hand. This is based on a belief from ancient times. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans believed that there is a direct vein from the ring finger, known as the "Vena Amoris" or "vein of love," that leads to the heart. This symbolic belief in a connection between this finger and the heart has persisted over the millennia and still shapes the tradition of wearing the engagement ring on the left in Germany today. Even though such a vein does not actually exist, it is still a beautiful symbol of love for the intimate bond of a couple's engagement. Are you still looking for ideas for a special engagement? Then let yourself be inspired in our journal: "Tips for the perfect marriage proposal: This is how your unforgettable engagement succeeds" inspirieren.

The engagement ring and wedding ring are usually worn on the ring finger, but the hand and significance vary depending on the culture. None of the traditional sources refer to the left or right hand. Traditionally, the fourth finger is considered the ring finger, the finger on which significant rings are worn, because the "Vena Amoris" (Vein of Love) allegedly leads directly to the heart, enhancing the romantic value of the ring.

Historically, rings for engagement or marriage were worn on different fingers: in the 17th century in England, even on the thumb, and among the Gauls, on the middle finger. This shows that the choice of finger for the engagement ring is culturally and historically different, with the ring finger being the most common today due to its symbolic proximity to the heart.

The way engagement rings are worn varies depending on the country and culture. In Germany, the engagement ring is often worn on the left ring finger, as the left hand is said to be closer to the heart, while the wedding ring belongs on the right finger. This symbolizes the formal connection. In Switzerland or Spain, for example, it is exactly the opposite. There, the engagement ring is usually worn on the right hand and the wedding ring switches to the left hand during the wedding, as in Italy, Croatia, and the Netherlands. In many other countries, such as the USA, Ireland, or England, it is common to wear both rings on the left hand. Despite these diverse traditions, such customs are no longer binding nowadays.

After the wedding, many women face the question of how to continue wearing their beloved engagement ring. Many have a strong emotional attachment to their engagement ring and the engagement itself and want to keep wearing it even after the wedding.

Some women keep it on their left hand while the wedding ring goes on the right hand. Alternatively, the engagement ring can be worn as a guard ring on the right in front of the wedding ring. For some, wearing both rings on a necklace can also be an elegant solution, especially if rings are not allowed at the workplace.

A more beautiful and symbolic way is to use the engagement ring as Vorsteckring to wear before the wedding ring. This trend, which originally comes from the USA and the UK, emphasizes the significance of engagement and harmoniously integrates the ring into the new chapter of married life. A very popular choice is the set of a classic solitaire ring with diamonds and a simple band ring. Wearing the engagement ring as a pre-ring before the wedding ring symbolizes the solidified love, as the marriage is secured by the preceding engagement ring.

However, this is not always possible, as some engagement rings cannot be optimally combined with a wedding ring. Fortunately, many jewelers today offer special wedding bands that are perfectly coordinated with the engagement ring. These rings are designed to harmonize in both shape and color of the metal with the engagement ring. All Verlobungsringe The pieces from Maren Jewellery are designed to be worn in combination with our wedding rings.

More information about which hand the wedding ring is worn on in Germany and other countries can be found in our journal: Wedding ring: On which hand is it worn?

Those who value traditions in Germany undergo a change of engagement ring from one hand to the other when getting married. Both rings are now worn on the right hand.

The choice of which finger and which hand to prefer for the engagement ring often depends solely on personal taste and what is most meaningful for your engagement as a couple.

Ultimately, there are no strict rules on how the engagement ring should be worn before or after the wedding. It is important for each couple to find a solution that best reflects their personal preferences and lifestyle.