Rings have been worn for centuries and there’s no better way to update your look than with a perfectly crafted ring stack. In saying this begs the question about which fingers you should wear your rings on? While some fingers have very obvious symbolism such as the wedding and engagement rings, there are probably some others that you don’t know about!
The way you wear your rings can say a lot about you such as your personality, relationship status and other factors as well. Many of these meanings and symbolisms have come from history and cultural beliefs but how you wear them will ultimately come down to personal preference and how they fit.
Not only do rings and their placements have meaning, but it is essential that your rings are the right size, and this can influence how you wear them. A ring that is too big or too small can be especially annoying.
Left or Right?
If you are right-handed, then your right hand will be considered the active hand, and your left, the passive hand. If you are left-handed, then this is reversed. This is important to note as your dominant hand generally is more active, and rings worn on this hand will be subject to harsher wear and tear. For gemstones that are softer, or special pieces that you want to protect, it is best to wear them on your passive hand, however, if you want to make sure that your ring really stands out, then you should wear it on your dominant hand.
Ring Meanings by Finger
From your profession to your marital status, throughout time fingers and rings have been used to show a range of special meanings. On the other hand, some have no meanings at all, or they are less known about. You can keep these associations in mind when styling your jewellery, however, we think the best style is whatever you think looks the best!
Index Finger
The index finger is a great place for your statement and cocktail rings. It’s easily seen and will make a big impression. Hundreds of years ago, men wore their family crest or signet rings on their index fingers to symbolise wealth and social status. In fact, some people of lower classes were banned from wearing index rings in historical European cities! Today, this symbolism is not so followed. Instead, the index finger is often home to family rings, class rings and fraternal rings. It's a great place to style a big gemstone ring, you should wear your most admirable rings in this placement.
Middle Finger
The middle finger represents balance and order. If you’re looking to create a perfectly styled ring curation, then you should ensure your middle finger adorns a simple piece as it will effortlessly tie the look together. Try a minimalistic sterling silver ring or gold ring to add a hint of bling to complement your statement pieces.
It is less common for men to wear rings on their middle fingers, however, it is often considered a desirable fashion statement in western cultures. For men who want to elevate their style, wearing a large, bold ring on this finger can be both masculine and unique.
Ring Finger
Right Hand
A ring on this finger does not have any historical meanings, however, it is a beautiful placement for a colourful gemstone ring, try amethyst, morganite or emerald for a piece that will really pop. Generally, your ring finger will also have the smallest ring size (aside from the pinky), that means that you can still rock your favourite piece in comfort even if it is a smaller size than what you normally wear.
Left Hand
The left ring finger has many meanings in western culture. Usually, it is reserved for engagement rings and wedding rings to show marital status. A growing trend is to wear a promise ring on this finger to signify commitment to a partner. This is usually done by younger couples who cannot afford to invest in an expensive diamond engagement ring.
Pinky Finger
The pinky finger has a long history of meanings and symbolisation from marital status to mafia connections. In the early 19th and 20th centuries, it was popular for a man to wear an engagement and wedding ring on their left pinky finger. This placement for marital rings is more understated and out of the way, a great option for those who work heavily with their hands. While this trend may have fallen out of popularity in recent years, a ring worn on the pinky finger is still a stylish fashion statement that gives your look a unique edge.
Fun Fact: pinky rings on either hand are sometimes associated with the culture of crime, popularised by Mafia groups.
Thumb
The finishing touch to any ring stack is a thumb ring. Because we use our thumbs so much, it is best to wear a plain band with minimal features to ensure easy wearing. In your ring stack, pair a thumb ring next to a colourful gemstone ring on the ring finger for a stunning design.
For men, a bulky thumb ring represents power and influence, so you can step out each day with confidence. Rings for men are rising in popularity, so if you are keen to keep up with the trends you need to get yourself a thumb ring.
When it comes to choosing rings and their placements there is no right or wrong way. It is entirely personal preference about how you wear your rings and which placements you choose. Do what makes you feel the most beautiful and wear your rings on the finger that feels the most comfortable.
