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Wedding ring: does it belong on your right or left hand?
Wedding
Diamondsbyme
February 10, 2023
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The Debate of Wearing Wedding Rings: Right or Left Hand?
Introduction: Wedding rings have been a symbol of love and commitment for centuries, but there is a debate on which hand it should be worn on - the right or the left? Different countries have different traditions and beliefs, and in this article, we will explore the reasons behind wearing the wedding ring on either hand.
Reason 1: Cultural Traditions
In countries such as Germany, Austria, Poland, Bulgaria, and Russia, it is customary to wear the wedding ring on the right hand. Meanwhile, in America, Spain, and Switzerland, the wedding ring is worn on the left hand. The reason for this can be traced back to ancient Rome and Greece where they believed that the fourth finger of the left hand had a direct vein that led to the heart. This vein was called the "vena amoris," which translates to "vein of love," and thus a wedding ring was placed on the ring finger of the left hand.
Reason 2: Religious Beliefs
The Catholic Church considers exchanging rings as a mandatory part of the consecration, with the wedding ring being worn on the left hand. Protestantism, however, did not accept this tradition as they considered it unseemly vanity. After the Protestant Reformation, they stopped exchanging rings altogether. It wasn't until the 19th century that Protestants realized the symbolic significance of wedding rings and chose to wear it on the right hand as a sign of opposition to Catholicism.
Reason 3: Practical Considerations
The choice of hand may also depend on the individual's dominant hand - if they are right- or left-handed. Wearing the ring on the dominant hand may increase the likelihood of the ring being damaged, but on the other hand, it may also make it more visible to others that the person is married.
Conclusion
The choice of wearing the wedding ring on the right or left hand is entirely a personal decision that should be made with the future partner. Whether it is based on cultural traditions, religious beliefs, or practical considerations, it is important to find what works best for the individual. If wearing a ring is not for you, there are alternative options such as tattoos, like the couples Beyoncé and Jay Z, Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell, and Kelly Rowland and Tim Witherspoon. At DiamondsByMe, we offer the most beautiful and personalized rings at the best price, so you can choose the perfect symbol of love and commitment for your special day.
