Share:

When you receive a ring for graduation, an engagement, or as a gift, you have several options for what finger to slip it on. There are traditions behind wearing jewelry on each digit, which may give you ideas for what statement you want to make. If you’re interested in learning about the symbolism of wearing rings on different fingers, here’s a guide that explains the meanings behind each of them.

What Rings Mean When Worn on Each Finger

Thumb

Want to make a fashion statement with your birthstone or a trendy design? Wear your ring on your thumb. This finger has little standing in traditions, and it’s seen as more of an informal, playful position for jewelry. According to palmistry, the spiritual practice of reading the lines on the hands, this digit symbolizes willpower and self-assertion.

Index Finger

In most cases, the index finger is another chance to show off your personal style. However, some cultures, such as Judaism, associate this finger with marriage. During a Jewish wedding ceremony, a gold band is slipped onto the right index finger, and only some brides choose to move it to the ring finger later on.

Middle Finger

jewelrySitting in the center of your hand, this placement symbolizes power and responsibility. Since it’s right next to the ring finger, some couples wear “promise rings” on the middle finger as a precursor to engagement and wedding bands.

Ring Finger

Because of its name, it’s not surprising that the ring finger is one of the most popular digits for jewelry. If you receive an engagement ring, you might slip it on your right or left ring finger, depending on your gender and culture. For example, while men in North and South America tend to use the right finger for engagement, they use the left one for their wedding ring. However, in countries such as Russia, the wedding ring is also worn on the right. 

Pinky

In many countries in the Western hemisphere, the pinky is used for signet rings, which have a flat, smooth face and often depict initials, a family crest, or a coat of arms. Pop culture often depicts fictional mafia members wearing a ring on this finger, which backs up the pinky’s connection with familial bonds.

 

Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring for your special someone or looking to design a piece of jewelry for yourself, Somos Designer Jewelry Gallery will help you find the perfect piece. Serving the New York area since 1979, they design and create the vast majority of their unique inventory. They carry rings, necklaces, and other timeless pieces. View some of their gemstone rings on their website or call (845) 348-0800 to discuss your needs.

tracking