Why Wearing Rings On Your Left Hand Isn't Your Only Choice
Engagement rings and wedding bands have been used as a symbol of commitment in relationships for centuries, we hardly even question it anymore. Every other day you’ll come across an extravagant proposal on social media and the guaranteed showing off of the ring Instagram post. But, if you’re wondering why we care about rings in the first place, here’s a mini-history lesson: the fourth finger of the left hand was believed to be the only finger to house a vein that runs directly to your heart, well at least according to the Romans. Hence the placement of a ring to show commitment to your partner or the joining of hearts. But, not everyone is a ring person, and it shouldn’t matter how you choose to symbolize your marriage, if you do at all, to show your devotion to a relationship. You should always make a decision that feels the most comfortable to you and your partner, even if that means going against century-long traditions. If you’re considering some alternative ring options, we’ve listed below five ways you can make the tradition your own.
Engagement Ring and Wedding Band
Typically it is custom to wear the engagement and wedding ring stacked on the fourth finger of the left hand. If you don’t like wearing jewelry on only one of your hands or simply don’t like the look of stacked rings, you can wear your engagement ring on your right hand and the wedding band on your left or vice versa.
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Photography by Jane From Thompson Photography Group
Ring Stack
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Maybe two rings aren’t enough for you or your tendency to stack three or four rings on your finger at a time is hard to shake. In either case, you can create a wedding ring set where each ring fits into the other. You can have two wedding bands that surround your engagement ring to add more sparkle or even experiment with gemstones, metals, or just plain bands.
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Single Ring
If you see the purchase of two rings for essentially the same purpose as too costly or just unnecessary, consider finding a single, ultimate ring. If you’re on the simpler side and don’t like wearing a lot of jewelry, you can stick to a plain metal band or an infinity ring covered in your favorite stones. An engagement ring could also just as easily serve as a wedding band, and if you’re worried about the exchange of rings in your ceremony, just have your partner re-slip your engagement ring on your finger during your vows.
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Photography by Marcela Plosker Photography
Other Symbols
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Don’t like rings at all? There’s no need to change your ways just because you’re getting married. You can opt to put your rings on a chain and wear them as a necklace or have a bracelet specially made with an engraving. Some couples will even get matching tattoos on their ring fingers or arms for a more permanent show of commitment.
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No Ring
A wedding band doesn’t make you a married person, the vows you take do. You and your partner both know that you’re married, and you don’t need a ring to prove that, so don’t feel that you need to give in to the pressure of tradition. Rings are nice, but they’re not mandatory, so do what feels right to you and your partner, and if that means no rings, then that’s perfectly fine.
Photography by Courtney Chau Photography
Photography by Q Hegarty Photography
Share this with a bride who is looking for an alternative to the traditional wedding or engagement ring. Still in the process of searching for a wedding gown? Browse our collection of wedding gowns that are made-to-measure and have customizable details!
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