man hiding an engagement ring

Though wearing rings can be a personal decision, it is helpful to understand which finger you should put your ring on.

The way you wear your rings can be indicative of who you are and the life you lead. It’s something people might notice and make inferences about, drawing on cultural customs, history, and beliefs.

Let’s learn more about your ring fingers and check how well do you wear your rings.

The term ‘pinky’ refers to a Dutch word meaning ‘small finger’. The pinkie finger is the baby finger and is typically the lowest digit on your hand. It’s also known as a fifth digit and is next to your index or ring fingers.

Ring Finger

ring finger

The next finger is called the “ring finger” because it’s often worn on a ring. But it also has some other names: third finger, annular, leech and arch and is most commonly as the “ring digit” of the left hand.

One of the first associations with this finger may have come from ancient beliefs. Some thought that the heart is linked to this finger.

Middle Finger

middle finger

The middle finger is located between the forefinger and the third finger. It is the longest and thickest of all fingers with a large, long nail. This digit is associated with a great deal of symbolism in various cultures.

Index Finger

index  finger

A ring worn on the index finger usually doesn’t have any special meaning, but for many people it builds up noticeable symbolism. This digit is central to the rest of your fingers and so a ring here can represent power and responsibility.

Thumb

thumb

Thumbs have been associated with power, class, and royalty for a long time now. If not used as a fashion statement, thumb rings are still commonly found on high-ranking individuals in society.

How does each finger commonly represents the ring?

FINGER

LEFT

RIGHT

Pinky Finger Marital status / Mafia connections / Family Status / Non-marital status  Could be same as left in other culture
Ring Finger Marital Status / Betrothal / Romantic Promise / Chastity  Could be same as left in other culture
Middle Finger Fashion Doesn’t specifically represent anything
Index Finger Fashion Professional Status / Membership / Class / Affiliation
Thumb Doesn’t specifically represent anything Social Status

 

What kind of ring should you use?

SYMBOL

RING

Marital status Wedding Ring / Wedding Band
Mafia connections;  Social Connections/status Signet Ring
Family Status Family Ring / Mother’s Ring / Signet Ring
Non-marital Status Statement ring of choice
Betrothal Engagement Ring
Romantic Promise Promise Ring
Chastity Purity Ring
Professional Status Professional Ring

 

Rings have been around for centuries, and in every culture, there is a different meaning attached to them. The best way to wear a ring is to make sure it matches the cultural norms of the country you’re in.

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