Typically these rings are worn on the ring finger, but do you know the meaning of wearing different types of rings on each finger? In this complete guide, we discuss the meaning of each finger for wearing rings, what finger to wear rings on and also give an explainer into what's your ring finger.
The meaning of each finger
Throughout history, it is believed that finger choices for rings have a spiritual or mystical meaning. In palmistry, the hands and fingers are associated with the attributes of Greek gods, and it is thought that wearing specific gemstones on a certain finger can bring good luck. The symbolism and meaning of each finger for wearing rings may influence how you choose to wear them.
The ring finger
The ring finger symbolises eternal love, creativity and beauty. It is thought to be associated with the Greek god, Apollo, while complimentary gemstones for this finger include jade, amethyst, moonstone, sapphire and turquoise.
The middle finger
The middle finger is thought to represent responsibility, balance and soul-searching while its associated gemstones are coral, aquamarine and rose quartz which are all meant to have soothing properties.
The index finger
The index finger is ruled by Jupiter - symbolising ambition, leadership and self-confidence. Wearing a ring with blue topaz, amethyst or lapis lazuli on this finger is thought to promote Jupiter’s characteristics.
The pinky finger
The pinky finger is ruled by Mercury which symbolises intuition, intelligence and persuasion. Choosing a stone such as amber, citrine or moonstone for your pinky finger is said to enable the power of Mercury.
The thumb
The thumb is the only finger that isn’t associated with a Greek god. It is believed to symbolise willpower and self-assertion.
Ring meanings by finger
From marriage to the Mafia, there are many reasons for wearing rings on different fingers. Here we discuss the ring meanings by finger.
Left pinky finger - Marital status and the Mafia
It was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries for men to wear two rings on their pinky finger to show they were married. One would be a wedding ring and the other a signet ring. Wearing rings on the left or right pinky could also be associated with the Mafia.
Left ring finger - Marriage or engagement
The left ring finger is the engagement ring finger in the UK. In most western countries this finger is reserved for wedding rings and engagement rings. It can also be used as the promise ring finger, but this depends on personal preference.
Left middle finger - No statement
Wearing a ring on the left middle finger has no particular meaning. If you have a great statement ring, you may wish to wear it on this finger.
Left index finger - Royalty or fashion
A ring worn on either index finger used to be reserved for royalty. Visitors would kneel before the King or Queen and kiss the ring on their index finger as a sign of respect. These days, it is a great place to stack fashion rings.
Left thumb - A sign of wealth
A thumb ring on either hand used to be reserved only for the high class. It was seen as a status symbol and represented wealth due to the fact it costs more to create a thumb ring because of the number of materials used.
Right thumb - A sign of wealth
In the same way as the left thumb, a ring worn on the right thumb used to symbolise wealth. However, these days wearing a ring on the thumb is seen more as a fashion statement.
Right index finger - Marriage in some cultures
The right index finger is reserved for wedding rings in some cultures, for example, this is the accepted place to put your wedding ring in traditional Jewish ceremonies. After the ceremony brides have the option to move their ring to the ring finger on their left hand.
Right middle finger - Open to interpretation
Wearing a ring on either middle finger doesn’t hold much meaning. Therefore, it is a great place to style your fashion or diamond rings as you please.
Right ring finger - Marriage or engagement in some cultures
Just like some cultures wear their wedding or engagement rings on their left ring finger, there are also several countries where you would wear them on your right ring finger. For example, in countries such as India, Germany and Russia, you would wear your ring on your right ring finger.
Right pinky finger - Professional status
Wearing rings on the right pinky finger has the same meaning as wearing them on the left. Sometimes wearing a ring on the right, however, symbolises professional status. A ring on the pinky can be a symbol of graduating with a degree in a specific field, usually in engineering or ecology.
Ring finger meanings for men
There are specific ring meanings for men and wearing rings on fingers other than the ring finger holds symbolic significance. In this section, we discuss the ring finger for men and the meaning of wearing a ring on a specific finger.
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Ring finger - Marital status
The ring finger for men can be either hand depending on culture and religion. For example, in western cultures, the ring finger for men is on the left. Men’s wedding rings will often be worn on the left hand on the ring finger in the UK - however, in countries such as Russia, Germany and India, the wedding ring is worn on the right.
Middle finger - Balance
It is uncommon for men to wear a ring on the middle finger, however, in the west, it has become a fashion statement. Wearing a ring on the longest finger is said to symbolise balance.
Index finger - Social status
Wearing a ring on the index finger used to be viewed as a way to express social status. It was reserved for the upper class and men would often wear a family crest or signet ring on this finger.
Thumb - Power and influence
Men wearing a ring on their thumb has long been viewed as a symbol of power or influence. It has also been associated with high-class society and royalty. Today, however, some men choose to wear a thumb ring as a fashion statement.
The finger you choose to wear your rings on really depends on your taste and preference. Some people even choose to wear their engagement ring and wedding rings on a different finger to what tradition dictates.
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