Wedding rings: on which hand should I wear it?
​​Many couples ask themselves this question when trying on rings with me: On which hand should the wedding ring be worn? The answer is: There is no strict rule! It depends on the country you are in. The tradition of wearing wedding rings varies worldwide.
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Wedding rings traditions arould the world
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Right hand tradition
In Austria, it is traditionally common to wear the wedding ring on the right hand – just like in Germany, Poland, Bulgaria, Norway, and Russia. The engagement ring, which is worn on the left hand, is often moved to the right hand after the wedding and becomes a stacking ring next to the wedding ring.
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Many Orthodox Christians wear their wedding rings on their right hands as well. In Latin, the word “sinister” means “on the left side.” Therefore, this tradition is based on the belief that the left hand has negative connotations and associations of being ominous and menacing. ​​
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© Photovoxi
Left hand tradition
In France – where I come from – as well as in other Mediterranean countries like Italy, and also in Switzerland and the USA, it’s the other way around: People wear their wedding ring on the left hand.
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According to The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Ancient Egyptians believed that the ring finger, or the fourth finger of the left hand, contained a “vena amoris” or “vein of love” that led directly to the heart. The Romans adopted this belief and wore wedding rings on their ring finger. Although their belief isn’t anatomically correct, the tradition of wearing rings on the ring finger of the left hand continues to this day.
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Criteria to choose the best for you
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Lifestyle & Profession
If your work involves extensive use of one hand, it may feel comfortable to wear your wedding ring on the other hand.
Cultural background
If your partner comes from a different country and cultural background, you may want to decide together what feels right for you both.
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My Recommendation?​
Wear your wedding ring in the way that feels best for you!
Your wedding ring is a personal symbol of love and commitment to one another. Whether you choose the right or left hand, make sure it reflects your individual style and life.
Regardless of how you choose to wear them, you should always ensure that both your rings are comfortable and sized properly.