What’s the proper way to wear a wedding band and engagement ring? Those glittering symbols of love, commitment, and, let’s be honest, some serious sparkle. But hold on, amid the Pinterest board frenzy, wedding dress shopping and cake tastings, a crucial question emerges: how do you actually wear the rings?

Once you have that gorgeous engagement ring and the wedding planning excitement is in full swing, a common consideration emerges: whether the engagement ring should go first, followed by the wedding band, or vice versa.

Fear not, brides-to-be (and grooms-to-be)! I am here to guide you through the world of ring etiquette. We’ll explore some options, helping you feel confident about wearing your rings in your own way.

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How to wear a wedding band and engagement ring

While there isn’t a single ‘correct’ method for wearing your wedding band and engagement ring together, there exist numerous traditions and choices to consider. It’s all about personal choice and what feels right for you. Here are some common ideas to consider.

Traditional stacking

Place both rings on the fourth finger of your left hand. The wedding band goes first, closest to your palm, followed by the engagement ring on top. This represents the wedding vows wrapping around the promise of engagement.

Modern variations

Try reverse stacking by placing the engagement ring first, followed by the wedding band. This can highlight the engagement ring or emphasise that the engagement is the foundation of the marriage.

Another way is to separate fingers, with the engagement ring on the left hand and the wedding band on the right. This is great if the rings have different styles or if it feels more comfortable.

On different hands

Consider wearing the engagement ring on one hand and the wedding band on the other. This is a lovely choice for heirloom rings or if you prefer a visual separation.

Which finger does the wedding band and engagement ring go on?

The traditional placement for wedding bands and engagement rings is on the fourth finger of the left hand, known as the ring finger. This practice, rooted in ancient traditions, is based on the belief that the vein in this finger leads directly to the heart. 

However, alternative options include wearing the rings on the right hand ring finger or on separate hands, allowing for flexibility in choosing what feels most comfortable and meaningful for you and your partner.

Can I wear my engagement ring on my right hand?

Absolutely! There’s no strict rule about which hand to wear your engagement ring; tradition suggests the left ring finger, but the right hand is gaining popularity for cultural or personal reasons. 

Some cultural traditions, like in Norway or Poland, involve wearing engagement rings on the right hand, and certain religions, such as Orthodox Christianity, have customs of doing the same. 

Practical considerations, like being left-handed or personal preference for aesthetics, can also influence your choice, but be ready to explain it to curious individuals.