When it comes to the symbols of eternal love and commitment, few things rival the significance of engagement and wedding rings. These precious bands carry the stories and promises of a lifetime. But with the joy of wearing these rings comes the question: how should they be worn together?
What is the Correct Way to Wear Your Engagement Ring and Wedding Band?
Wearing Your Rings: Day of the Wedding
If you're exchanging rings during your wedding ceremony, most people do one of two things:
-
Before the ceremony, temporarily switch your engagement ring to your right hand. After the wedding ring is placed on your left-hand ring finger, move your engagement ring over to its new spot.
- Alternatively, you can leave your engagement ring where you normally wear it, have your partner place the wedding band beside it during the ceremony, and switch the order later.
A Tip From Us: A few weeks before your wedding day, try your engagement ring and wedding band together to make sure they fit correctly and feel comfortable. This will also allow you to see how they look together and plan for any needed adjustments. If you need a ring adjustment before the big day, make an appointment to come in and see us.
Where Did the Term “Ring Finger” Come From?
While it’s hard to say for certain, many people date the custom of the left-hand ring finger to Ancient Egypt, where people believed that a vein ran directly from this finger to the heart, which they called the "vena amoris" or the "vein of love." While this anatomical belief is a myth, the symbolism persisted, and the tradition of wearing wedding rings on this finger continued.
Engagement Ring Etiquette
How you wear your engagement ring and wedding band depends on your personal preference! Here are a few options to consider:
-
Wedding Ring on Bottom: Traditionally, people wear their wedding ring on their left hand, closest to the palm, followed by the engagement ring.
-
Engagement Ring on Bottom: You can reverse the order, wearing the engagement on your left hand closest to your palm, followed by the wedding ring. By placing it first, the engagement ring can symbolize the beginning of the relationship.
-
On Separate Hands: In some cultures, it's customary to wear the engagement ring and wedding ring on separate hands.
- Soldered Together: Some people prefer to fuse their rings to create one unified piece. This symbolizes the bond between both parties and keeps both rings forever connected and harder to misplace.
Ultimately, how you wear your wedding and engagement rings is a personal choice. The most important thing is that you love what you get.
Variations Around the World: A Reflection of Rich Cultures
Different cultures have their unique takes on how wedding rings should be worn.
- Eastern European Tradition: Often on the right hand, showcasing their exclusive customs.
- Jewish Wedding Customs: Emphasis on the bride's index finger, later moved to the more traditional ring finger.
- Indian Traditions: Depending on the region, different fingers and even toes can be adorned with rings.
- Latin American Customs: Rings are worn on the right hand before marriage and shifted to the left afterward.
Each custom, each design, speaks of history, love, and commitment. Mervis Diamond Importers, with its rich legacy and dedication to expert craftsmanship, offers pieces that seamlessly blend with traditions worldwide.
Be Traditional or Make Your Own Tradition
One time-honored tradition is matching wedding bands. Although this is common practice, your wedding rings don’t have to match! There are many ways you can carry over similar styles between you and your spouse without having to select a plain metal band. As you’re deciding, here are a few things to consider:
-
Matching Metals: If you don’t want to match exactly, you can choose rings made from the same metal that complement one another while still reflecting your own style.
-
Individuality: Many couples prefer to express their individuality through their wedding rings, opting for different styles, metals, or designs.
- Practical Considerations: Practical factors such as lifestyle and job requirements may also influence your decision. For example, if one partner works with their hands or has a job that requires frequent jewelry removal, they might opt for a more durable and practical ring.
Before you decide, discuss your preferences with your spouse-to-be! Talking through wedding ring preferences can help you both feel happy and comfortable with your choice. When you come into our store, our experts can guide you through different sets or combinations that suit your tastes.
Find the Perfect Wedding Rings at Mervis Diamond
Whether you want to become an engagement band trailblazer or stick with tradition is up to you. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect engagement ring and wedding band, come into one of our three locations and experience the Mervis Difference. Get access to a personal jeweler who will curate a hand-picked selection, offer expert advice, and find the perfect set for you and your significant other.
Washington, DC
1700 K Street NW
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 293-0600
M-F: 10am-6pm
Sat: 9am-5pm
Sun: Closed
Rockville, Maryland
1775 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 231-0030
M-F: 10am-6pm
Sat: 9am-5pm
Sun: 12pm-5pm
Tysons Corner, Virginia
1900 Mervis Way
Tysons, VA 22182
(703) 448-9000
M-F: 10am-6pm
Sat: 9am-5pm
Sun: 12pm-5pm
