Weddings rings are an expressive and significant symbol that expresses our social status in terms of long-term invested relationships.
Traditionally worn on the left hand, the wedding ring rules make no limitations to wearing it on your right hand as well. So, which countries wear wedding rings on right hand?
Riddled with tradition, different countries and cultures may have varying opinions on how to wear this symbol of union.
Rings have different meanings when worn on different fingers and while you may think that your normal is everybody’s normal, that is not true at all.
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Which Countries Wear Wedding Ring on Right Hand?
The same Romans who introduced to us the culture of marriage proposals by presenting a ring and they too who taught us to wear it on the left hand, later changed their minds and considered the left hand untrustworthy. This is the origin of the right-hand wedding ring.
In India, they have long worn their rings on the right hand because the left was seen as impure. With changes in recent times, however, this tradition has ebbed away and people can now wear them as they please.
Germany and Netherlands also wear their wedding ring on the right hands while keeping the engagement ring on their right hand. This balance signifies a status change from engaged to married.
Wedding traditions of the Jewish community dictate the wedding ring to be slipped on the bride’s index finger during event. When the wedding is done, she can then put it on the ring finger of the same hand.
Turkey and Lebanon nationals traditionally wear the ring on the right hand for the wedding and switch it to the left after the wedding.
Sri Lankan couples wear their rings on opposite hands. The bride wears hers on the left hand and the groom slips his on his right hand.
Most European, South American and some Asian countries wear their rings on the right hand. Hungary, Latvia, Greece, Serbia, Ukraine, Belgium, Portugal, Russia, Bulgaria, Austria, Poland, Denmark, Norway, Spain, Cuba, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela and Jordan follow this right-hand wedding ring rule.
Regardless of their nationality, individuals who identify as Orthodox Christians also wear their wedding rings on there right hand because of the Latin meaning of the word ‘left’ which references impending evil and mystery.
We also talk about this topic: Why do some actors wear wedding rings on their right hand?
Which Countries Wear Wedding Ring on Left Hand?
Wearing a wedding ring on your left hand was first popularized by the Roman Aristotle society with the belief that a vein of love flowed directly from this fourth left finger to the heart. This is why it is referred to as the ring finger.
Many Western countries like Canada, UK, Mexico, South America, Italy, USA and France. For these European and American nations, wearing the wedding ring on the left hand and stacked up together with the engagement ring is their normal.
Why Do Some People Wear Wedding Rings on The Left Hand and In Others on The Right?
There are many reasons that influence the nationals of a country to wear their wedding ring on either hand. Be it for cultural, practical, economical or personal reasons, one is at liberty to make decisions that are pleasing to them.
While the left hand has long been cited as the preferred wedding ring bearer, this continues to change as people and societies evolve.
Here are a few elaborate reasons as to why these people chose to wear the wedding ring on either hand
1. Cultural Differences
Different countries have unique and diverse cultural practices that have been in effect within their people, community and region for thousands of years. These differences are very significant to those nationals who are steeped and rooted in their traditions.
This is one major reason for the different opinions on which hand to wear the wedding ring on. If a particular culture considered one or the other hand imperfect or unworthy, important symbols and practices could not be done with or on that hand.
2. Left-handedness
Rings are better worn on the hand that is considered less dominant because it reduces the chances that your ring will be damaged while you work.
Most commonly, the right hand is the active hand that is heavily used by a large majority. However, there is a significant number of left-handed individuals that live among us. This group of people who use the left hand predominantly might prefer to wear their ring on the right hand.
3. Breaking the Norm
The world as we knew it has changed and continues to change incredibly fast. General opinions are slowly fading away as people embrace their individuality and seek to express it any way they see fit. More and more people are discontinuing and breaking traditions and cultural conditionings that do not fit in with the current times.
New generation couples have the liberty to set their own rules as to wear and how to wear their wedding rings.
4. Same-Sex Marriages
Now legalized in many states and countries across the world, same-sex marriages are increasingly on the rise. Gay and lesbian couples at the altar have been sealing their nuptials by wearing the wedding ring on the right hand.
Apparently, there is a relationship between identifying as a gay man or lesbian woman and handedness. The rainbow community believe that the right hand represents a monogamous relationship. So wearing your wedding ring on this hand ensures you communicate your relationship position and status.
Maybe gay and lesbian individuals also use the right hand due to the old phrase “Left is Right and Right is Wrong” that sought to identify gay people by the ear in which they wore their earring as the culture grew popular in the 80s.
5. Empowerment
In recent times, weddings and marriages are at an all time low. Whatever the reason for this is, women have never been known to sit back and sulk. A breed of strong, independent and single ladies who have chosen to focus on their career and financial success are also influencing the general population.
With feminist agendas springing up every new dawn, women have grown into strong forts of confidence and exuberance. They don’t shy away from cashing out big bucks to buy themselves that enviable diamond ring which they wear on whichever finger or hand they care to.
While anyone on the outside looking in would think this is ridiculous, desperate and unnecessary, these women would beg to differ.
Many high-profile women leaders who are unmarried choose to gift themselves with exquisite rings that would have otherwise been bought by their man. Since he doesn’t exist, she sees no reason to deny herself her heart’s desire because she can afford it.
6. Infidelity
The fall of marriages leading to divorce is more often a result of unfaithful relationships or extramarital affairs.
Many men and women are guilty of this and there are generally known tricks to the game. Switching your wedding ring to the other hand that is not the norm of your region may help you score a date other than your mate if you are in for it.
Rather than removing the ring and keeping it away which may be too obvious and risky in terms of loss, many people opt to switch the hand they wear it on.
Conclusion
Where you come from and the traditions that govern your people play a huge role in the creation of social norms and practices.
Which hand to wear your wedding ring on, however, does not have to be one of those strictly observed traditional guidelines.
This union between the two should create their own rules that keep them happy and secure.
Guys, for more wedding rings posts, do not forget to check our wedding ring page. It is an information hub for wedding rings. See you guys in the next post!
Stephanie
Stephanie is a jewelry lover when she was a teenager. Her major was fashion design when she was in college. She is a jewelry designer at SOQ Jewelry and other design companies. Now she is also a writer for our website. She writes a lot of designs&brands posts with very actionable tips.
FAQs
Which Countries Wear Wedding Ring On Right Hand? ›
Countries That Wear The Wedding Ring On The Right Hand. Several countries follow the right-hand wedding rule, including: Latvia, Hungary, Greece, Serbia, Russia, Belgium, Portugal, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Austria, Poland, Spain, Denmark, Cuba, Norway, Peru, Colombia, Jordan, and Venezuela.
Do Europeans wear wedding rings on the right hand? ›In the Western World and much of Europe, it's tradition to wear one's wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand, aka, the ring finger. Before the ceremony, the engagement ring is exchanged onto the right hand.
Do Mexicans wear wedding rings on right hand? ›After the wedding ceremony, the wedding ring is worn with the engagement ring on the same hand and same finger. The ring is also worn on the left hand in Mexico, Canada, France, Chile, Italy, UK, and throughout Asia.
Why do Spanish people wear wedding rings on right hand? ›In Spanish culture, however, women keep their engagement ring on their left hand, but wear their wedding ring on their right hand. The ring, like in most cultures, symbolises unity and commitment. If you are searching for men's wedding rings or wedding rings for women, we have a wide selection to choose from.
Do the French wear wedding rings on right hand? ›1) Most people in the United States, France and Canada wear their wedding and engagement rings on their left hand, because of the old tradition that a vein in the fourth finger of the right hand ran directly to the heart.
Which countries wear wedding ring on right hand in USA? ›People in Austria, Latvia, Russia, Norway, Poland, and parts of Spain and Portugal all wear wedding rings on the right hand!
What hand do Italians wear their wedding ring? ›In many eastern cultures and some select countries throughout Europe like Denmark, Italy, Norway, and Spain, the engagement ring and wedding band are worn on the right hand ring finger.
Which culture wears wedding ring on right? ›Countries That Wear The Wedding Ring On The Right Hand. Several countries follow the right-hand wedding rule, including: Latvia, Hungary, Greece, Serbia, Russia, Belgium, Portugal, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Austria, Poland, Spain, Denmark, Cuba, Norway, Peru, Colombia, Jordan, and Venezuela.
What culture wears wedding ring on right hand? ›"Today, wedding rings are most commonly worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. But some countries including India, Germany, Spain, Norway, and Russia traditionally wear their wedding rings on their right hand." Overall, it seems cultural traditions and norms set the standard for this custom.
Do Italians wear rings on right hand? ›On The Left Hand
Couples wear wedding rings on their left hands in many Western countries, such as North America, South America, and European nations including the UK, Italy, France and Slovenia.
What finger do Germans wear wedding rings? ›
Unlike countries like the US or the UK, in Germany, the wedding band is traditionally put on the right hand´s ring finger. This could date back once more to the Romans, who believed that the right hand was symbolic of honor and trust.
Do Arabs wear wedding ring on right hand? ›In the Islamic world, especially in parts of the Middle East and South Asia, it is customary for women to wear their engagement rings on their left ring finger, and for men to wear a wedding ring on their right ring finger.
What hand do British wear wedding rings on? ›In most Western cultures, particularly in the UK, you would wear your wedding ring on the fourth finger of your left hand. This is otherwise known as your ring finger and is also the place to wear your engagement ring.
What hand do Muslims wear wedding rings? ›Muslims often wear wedding rings on the right hand, but the left hand is also allowed. Culture and where one lives can also have an influence and determine which hand wedding rings are worn on and which hand engagement rings are worn on.
What is a divorce ring? ›What is a divorce ring? A divorce ring is a ring that you buy yourself after you have ended your marriage. It can replace your old wedding ring. Alternatively, you can wear it on another finger that's not your ring finger. Divorce rings can be any shape or size.
Do Muslims wear wedding rings? ›Over the years, Muslims adopted the idea of wearing wedding rings, without any basis in Islamic history. Wearing wedding rings is not considered unlawful in Islam, but it is a habit introduced into Muslim culture rather than stemming from it.
What does right hand ring finger mean USA? ›In many cultures, the right ring finger symbolizes love and trust.
Which cultures do not use wedding rings? ›Many Chinese put the ring away to protect it, except for important holidays, such as anniversaries. In Chinese tradition, higher status for men was signified by having several young female partners or concubines. A ring denies that status. For this reason, many modern Chinese men do not wear a wedding ring.
Do Japanese wear wedding rings? ›The Japanese, like Westerners, traditionally also used to wear a wedding ring on their left hand because they believe a vein leads directly to the heart through the left hand. These days, most Japanese people do not have a preferred hand to have a ring on.
What hand do Sicilians wear their wedding rings? ›In Italy the wedding ring is usually worn on the left hand: this tradition dates back to Roman times when the left ring finger was believed to be connected directly to the heart by a special vein called 'vena amoris', the vein of love.
What hand do Greeks wear wedding rings? ›
The Symbolism of Greek Orthodox Wedding Rings
Greek Orthodox couples wear their rings on their right hands in observance of the rings of power, authority, and pledge worn by the Biblical figures Joseph, Daniel, and the prodigal son.
According to Chinese tradition, engagement rings are worn on the middle finger, while wedding rings are worn on opposite hands by the bride and the groom. The bride wears a band on her right hand, while the groom wears his on the left.
Is it OK to wear wedding ring on right hand after divorce? ›After divorce, however, the decision typically comes down to personal preference, she says. If the marriage ended relatively amicably, some people do choose to wear their wedding ring or engagement ring on the right hand, as a reminder of their continued friendship with their ex.
Why do widows still wear their wedding rings? ›Many widows/widowers continue to wear their wedding ring until they feel ready to take it off. Some will continue to wear it forever. Wearing the ring enables the widow/widower to retain a sense of closeness to their departed spouse.
What religions wear ring on right hand? ›Orthodox Christians
Interestingly, in a Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony, the priest blesses the wedding ring three times in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then, he places the rings on the right hands of both the groom and bride.
In Indian tradition the wedding ring is worn on the right hand.
What finger do the Scottish wear wedding rings? ›It is the best man's responsibility to ensure that the ring is kept safe on the day of the wedding until it is required at the ceremony. The wedding ring is worn on the third finger of the left hand because the Romans believed that a nerve led from this finger straight to the heart, the seat of love and faithfulness.
Do Mormons wear wedding ring on right hand? ›You must wear it on your left hand. Only exceptions are for damage or amputation. A Mormon woman wears a CTR ring in her right ring finger. What does it mean?
Do the Dutch wear wedding rings on right hand? ›In the Netherlands, Protestants wear their wedding ring on the right, while Catholics wear it on their left. However, engaged Protestants would have a ring on the left hand, moving it to the right when marrying.
What hand is the wedding finger Poland? ›I COME from Poland where it has always been the tradition to wear one's wedding ring on the third finger of the right hand, for both the husband and the wife, presumably because the right hand is considered more important. If I am not mistaken, a similar tradition can be observed in some other European countries.
What does wearing a wedding on the right hand mean? ›
If a husband gives his wife a right-hand ring, it symbolizes a renewal of wedding vows or anniversaries. They may also serve as promise rings for dedicated partners or those taking a vow of chastity.
Who buys the man's wedding ring? ›Tradition has it that each person pays for the other person's ring. So in a traditional wedding, the groom or his family would pay for the bride's ring, and the bride or her family would pay for the groom's ring.
What do black rings mean? ›Significance Of A Black Ring
That belief has been carried into modern times, and black wedding rings for men and women are worn to signify power, courage, and strength. Legend has it that wearing a black ring represents the power of love, making black wedding ring bands extremely popular.
As everyone knows, Islam preaches marriage without dating. So, Islam marriage doesn't undergo the whole process of an engagement or even exchanging wedding rings. That's because Islam sees dating as an act of sin. The tradition of wearing wedding rings is derived from the West which goes against the Islamic teachings.
Do Jews wear wedding rings? ›In Judaism, the wedding ring plays a major role in the Jewish wedding ceremony, but after the wedding is over, many men don't wear a wedding ring and for some Jewish women, the ring ends up on the right hand.
Do Christians wear wedding rings? ›In today's society, exchanging wedding rings is very popular amongst Christian weddings, weddings of a variety of different religions and indeed also non-religious services. However, did you know that there is no biblical scripture that instructs people to wear wedding rings?
Why doesn t pink wear a wedding ring? ›Pink says she doesn't hand her wedding ring back every night
When asked how her relationship was going these days, Pink said: "We have learnt the art of communication. I don't hand my wedding ring back every night like I used to. Because that's just dumb and I can't actually get it off."
Another term used for rings women purchase themselves is the 'non-engagement ring. ' Women are celebrating singledom and self love more than ever before. A non-engagement ring may feature a diamond or birthstone, and can be worn on any finger.
Why are black wedding bands so popular? ›Symbolism Of The Color Black
In relation to marriage, a black ring can symbolize the power of love. Wearing black rings can be a way for a couple to show that they are dedicated to their marriage and that they believe in the strength of their union above all else.
Muslim societies allow for up to four wives, but not without specific rules and regulations.
Why men don t wear gold in Islam? ›
Gold contains rays which pass through body skin and influence blood cells. This is quite true for men (2). But it does not apply to the women because there is a layer of fat between the skin and flesh in women, which does not exist in men.
What does the Quran say about wedding rings? ›If it is believed that it generates love between the spouses, and that taking it off and not wearing it will have an effect on the marital relationship, then this is regarded as a form of shirk and is a kind of jahili belief. Based on the above, it is not permissible to wear a wedding ring under any circumstances.
What finger do you wear your wedding ring on in Eastern Europe? ›Typical of Orthodox countries across Eastern Europe, including Bulgaria, Greece, Latvia, and Ukraine, as well as some Western European countries, including Austria, Germany, Hungary, and the Netherlands, wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the right hand.
Do you wear engagement ring on left or right hand Europe? ›Engagement ring on the left hand: USA, UK, Germany, Austria, … Wearing the engagement ring on the left hand goes back to a Roman myth: It was long believed that there was a vein of love - the "vena amoris" - leading directly from the fourth finger of the left hand to the heart.
Why do some countries wear wedding ring on left hand? ›The western tradition of wearing your wedding bands on your left finger goes further back than you might have previously thought- all the way to the days of Ancient Rome. At the time, the Romans believed that a vein ran directly from the fourth finger on the left hand to the heart.
What finger do Arabs wear their wedding ring? ›In the Islamic world, especially in parts of the Middle East and South Asia, it is customary for women to wear their engagement rings on their left ring finger, and for men to wear a wedding ring on their right ring finger.
Do Russians wear wedding ring on other hand? ›On The Right Hand
In many Northern and Eastern European countries, including Denmark, Norway, Russia, Poland, and Bulgaria, it is more common to wear the wedding ring on the fourth finger of the right hand. In Portugal, Spain, and Greece, the right hand is also customary.
"Today, wedding rings are most commonly worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. But some countries including India, Germany, Spain, Norway, and Russia traditionally wear their wedding rings on their right hand." Overall, it seems cultural traditions and norms set the standard for this custom.
Why do Greeks wear ring on right hand? ›Greek Orthodox couples wear their rings on their right hands in observance of the rings of power, authority, and pledge worn by the Biblical figures Joseph, Daniel, and the prodigal son. Specifically, the prodigal son received a ring before he left home with his inheritance.
Why do married couples stop wearing wedding rings? ›There are reasons why spouses may choose to stop wearing wedding bands after the ceremony. The rings may no longer fit the wearer because of significant weight gain or loss or because the wearer's occupation prevents them from donning the rings daily.