The Real Meaning Behind the Ring Finger
While some people prefer to stick to the old romantic traditions, others decide to forge their own path based on comfort, personal preference, or a desire to pursue their own interests. It probably applies to many different countries and cultures, but it's especially true in the United States.
Rings on your ring finger are typically symbolic of your relationship status, whether that be engagement, marriage, or long-term monogamy.
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So where did this tradition originate from and does that apply to other rings tied to commitment? We’ve explored the real meaning behind the ring finger, and included some tantalizing inspiration too.
Which One Is The Ring Finger and Why?
The tradition of rings is said to have been created by Neanderthals, as they wore small, wearable wreaths woven from twigs and grasses among their mates. Over time, each civilization adopted this practice in its own way, with wide variations in how it was applied.
Traditionally, the ring finger is the fourth finger on the left hand. Many believe that this custom originated with Romans, who believed the ring finger was directly connected to the heart. This vein was known as Vena Amoris, or "Vein of Love." Despite medical science revealing that there is no such vein, the tradition continues today.
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18k White Gold Tacori 2620RDP Dantela Crown Diamond Engagement Ring (0.25ctw, For 1ct Center Diamond)
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14k White Gold Two Tone Verragio Tradition TR150R4-2T Diamond 4 Prong Engagement Ring with Rose Gold Inlay
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18k White Gold Simon G. MR1394 Fabled Diamond Engagement Ring
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Platinum Vatche U-113 6-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring
Platinum Vatche U-113 6-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring
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In part, because of the old Vena Amoris philosophy, a ring on the fourth finger represents a connection to the heart; it signifies affection, love and creativity, all of which are essential to a happy marriage.
There are some differences in traditions between countries, beliefs, and religions. For example, in India and Spain, wedding and engagement rings are normally worn on the right hand.
Ring Finger Customs: Promise Ring
Promise rings are preferred by some couples to signify their relationship status. As early as the 1500s, promise rings were worn to indicate a promise of commitment.
These days, it can mean a future engagement or a simple exclusive relationship. Especially popular among younger couples who intend to marry someday, but aren't quite ready to decide the date just yet, promise rings are a great way to express their devotion.
There's more significance in a promise ring's meaning than how it's worn. Thus, promise rings can be worn in many ways, and it is widely recognized that rings can be worn on any finger.
Since promise rings often precede engagements, some couples wear them on the finger traditionally considered to be the wedding ring finger - that is, on their left hand's ring finger as mentioned above.
If you prefer, you can also wear the promise ring on your right hand, leaving the ring finger of the left hand free for the exchange of engagement rings.
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Diamonds are known for their romance, and no other shape represents that more clearly than the heart shape. In addition to the radiance and sparkle of the cut, the shape reflects love for all those who see it.
Ring Finger Customs: Engagement Ring
The first
engagement ring dates from 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented his fiancee, Mary of Burgundy, with a diamond ring in the shape of an "M". This was the first known use of an engagement ring in its modern form.
The popularity of
diamond and
gemstone engagement rings fluctuated throughout the late 1470s and into the mid-1900s among the aristocracy and the wealthy; the lower and middle classes, meanwhile, exchanged rings made of wood, stone, or simple metal.
Engagement rings of today are a far cry from those of the past.
It was in 1947 that the marketing slogan "A Diamond is Forever" was created by De Beers, and immediately the diamond engagement ring became an established
proposal token. They were definitely on to something.
An engagement ring is usually worn after
accepting a proposal, on the finger between your pinkie and middle finger (aka your fourth finger) on your left hand.
In recent years, some men have started wearing engagement rings before they get married. The presence of a ring on a right hand is often a sign of monogamy in same-sex relationships - whether it is a long-term partnership or a marriage.
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This ring can be made out of a
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Ring Finger Customs: Wedding Ring
Wedding bands originated 4,800 years ago in Egypt, and they remain a symbol of unending love throughout history. Symbolizing eternity and the infinite, rings represent a couple's eternal love.
Wedding rings or bands are positioned on the ring finger after marriage to complete the set; the wedding ring is placed first, followed by the engagement ring. Because of this, both of these rings are typically
designed or purchased with each other in mind.
Men typically wear rings or wedding bands only once they are married. Many people find it practical to wear a wedding ring on their left hand. As most of us are right-handed, it is less likely that we will
damage the ring while going about our daily lives.
A ring is, at its heart, a symbol of love and commitment between a couple. Rings take on countless different forms, just like the ideas and emotions they represent. Hence, even though the ring finger is traditionally the fourth finger on the left hand, it completely depends on your culture and beliefs.
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Diamonds are one of the most popular ways to make your wedding ring truly exceptional. With its half eternity of diamonds, the French-cut diamond wedding ring is both elegant and comfortable. With a crescent-shaped setting, it allows light to flood the diamonds, and features classic Tacori detailing.
Against your engagement ring, the band's smooth underside helps the row of twinkling diamonds fit together perfectly.
Whiteflash has a variety of beautiful wedding and engagement rings to choose from that are sure to make your day even more special. Discover the perfect
promise,
engagement, or
wedding ring for you today.