The engagement ring: Which hand? Traditions, tips and trends

A "Will you marry me?" is (usually) followed by a joyful "Yes!" And then? For many, a proposal includes a pretty ring as a present, the engagement ring. But where does this meaningful piece belong? On which hand do you actually wear the engagement ring? In this country, the answer is not always clear, because cultural traditions, personal preferences and practical considerations play a role in the decision on which hand the engagement ring is worn. In this blog post, we will look at the different traditions, give you helpful tips and show you the latest trends in the topic of engagement ring hands .

The right engagement ring hand: right or left?

When it comes to the question: "Engagement ring: which hand?" traditional considerations also play a role. In Germany, the engagement ring was originally worn on the ring finger of the left hand. This custom has its roots in ancient times. At that time, people believed that a vein, the so-called "Vena Amoris" (vein of love), led directly from the left ring finger to the heart. This romantic idea has persisted in many cultures and still makes the left ring finger the preferred place for the engagement ring. In fact, however, the legendary vein from the heart to the ring finger does not exist. Of course, the story is still nice. A little romantic: Roman women already wore jewelry made of iron and bronze as engagement rings on their left hand. However, these had the symbol of a key - as a sign of the key to their loved one's heart.

Come to stay? It's true that after the wedding, the engagement ring often stays in place, especially in Germany, and therefore on the ring finger of the left hand, as the wedding ring is usually worn on the right hand here. Or the engagement ring is moved to the ring finger of the right hand. In this case, it is worn as a so-called "stack ring" together with the wedding ring. But opinions also differ on the question of whether the wedding ring should be worn on the right or left.

International traditions: Where do you wear the engagement ring?

Not only in Germany, but also in many other countries, there is a traditional custom as to which hand the engagement ring is worn on:

• USA and Great Britain: Both do their own thing. Here, the engagement ring is traditionally placed on the ring finger of the left hand. Even after the wedding, it stays on this side - as a stacking ring together with the wedding ring. Two is better than one.

• Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Netherlands and Switzerland: Similar to the USA, the engagement ring is worn on the left hand. After the wedding, the ring often stays there or, as in Germany, is switched to the right hand. This way, the wedding ring can shine on the left hand alone.

• Turkey, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Austria, Poland: Here the question "engagement ring on the right or left?" is answered in the same way as in Germany. The engagement ring is traditionally worn on the left hand, and the wedding ring is later placed on the right hand.

The different traditions and customs show that there is no uniform rule. Ultimately, what counts is what feels right for the couple. You do you!

Practical considerations: The right hand for the engagement ring

So which hand do you wear your engagement ring on? In addition to traditions, practical aspects also play a role in deciding which hand to wear your engagement ring on. Are you right-handed or left-handed? The ring finger of the right hand can be more practical for left-handed people, as it is less stressed. The same applies in reverse for right-handed people.

You should also consider whether the engagement ring will be worn together with the wedding ring later. If so, it makes sense to wear the engagement ring on the hand that you also prefer for the wedding ring. This way you avoid having to wear the two rings on different hands later - unless, of course, you want to.

Another option is to take off the engagement ring completely after the wedding and only wear it on special occasions. This approach is particularly popular if the look with the wedding ring is to remain minimalist and clean.

The trend question: How is the engagement ring worn today?

An exciting trend that has become established in this country in recent years is so-called "ring stacking". The engagement ring and the wedding ring are worn on top of each other on the same finger. This combination is not only symbolic, but also simply chic and harmonious. This way of wearing is particularly perfect for narrow, delicate and simple rings, such as those from fejn jewelry. This means that both rings can be combined on the ring finger of the left hand or the right hand. It's a look!

Do men wear engagement rings?

For a long time, the engagement ring was traditionally a symbol that was mainly worn by women. In recent years, however, more and more men have started wearing engagement rings, regardless of whether they are in a relationship with a woman or a man. This is intended to symbolize an equal partnership in which both have chosen each other together. The difference: for men, the designs of engagement rings are often simpler, for example in the form of a simple band or a ring with subtle gemstones. Some couples decide against the classic proposal with a glittering stone and instead choose matching engagement rings together.

Engagement ring with wedding ring: A decision that belongs together

The decision as to which hand the engagement ring is worn on can also influence where the wedding ring will later be placed. And of course it can also influence which wedding ring you choose. So, which hand should the wedding ring go on? Traditionally, in Germany the wedding ring is worn on the ring finger of the right hand. So if you wear your engagement ring on your left ring finger, it might make sense to place the wedding ring on your right hand later. Alternatively, you always have the option of wearing both rings together on one finger. If you are now asking yourself very specifically: "Where do you wear the wedding ring?", please read our article " The wedding ring: which hand "

If you are still unsure which hand your engagement ring will look best on, try out different variations. After all, the ring should not only symbolize your love, but also fit your personal style and be suitable for everyday use.

Which hand is right for the engagement ring?

Ultimately, there is no universal answer to the question of which hand the engagement ring should be worn on. Traditions offer guidance, but the decision should be based on your personal taste and practical considerations. Love is the answer! So it doesn't matter which hand you choose - your engagement ring is a precious symbol of your love and should reflect that perfectly. It doesn't matter which hand it adorns. But what is really important is the right size of the ring. How can this be determined without another ring? We'll tell you in our blog post: Determining ring size without a ring .