What Hand and Finger Does the Engagement Ring Go On?

What Hand and Finger Does the Engagement Ring Go On? A Modern Guide for Australian Couples

It’s a question almost everyone asks — especially when planning a proposal:

“Which hand does the engagement ring go on?”

You’d think there would be one clear answer… but like many traditions, it’s not so simple anymore. In fact, your choice may say more about your values, culture, and relationship than any old rule ever could.

In this post, we’ll explore what tradition says, what Australians actually do today, and how you can make the choice that fits you best.

The Traditional Answer: Left Hand, Ring Finger

Historically, engagement rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand — what many call the “ring finger.”

The reason? Ancient Romans believed this finger had a vein that ran directly to the heart, called the vena amoris — the “vein of love.” While that anatomy has long been debunked, the symbolism stuck around.

This tradition was passed down through European history and continues today across countries like the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

But What About the Wedding Ring?

Here’s how it typically works in countries like Australia:

• Before the wedding: The engagement ring is worn on the left ring finger.

• On the wedding day: The engagement ring is temporarily moved to the right hand so the wedding band can be placed first on the left ring finger — symbolising it being closer to the heart.

• After the ceremony: The engagement ring is moved back on top of the wedding band.

But remember — this is tradition, not law.

What Do Modern Australians Actually Do?

At Diamond Lab, we’ve noticed a growing trend: more couples are choosing what feels right to them, not just what tradition dictates.

Here’s what we’re seeing:

• Left-hand placement is still the norm for most proposals.

• Some same-sex couples choose to wear their engagement rings on the right hand to differentiate or share symbolism.

• Left-handed wearers sometimes prefer the right hand for comfort or practicality.

• Some non-binary or gender-diverse individuals choose a completely different finger — or even another piece of jewellery, like a pendant or bracelet — to represent their commitment.

Your hand, your rules.

What Finger Is the “Ring Finger,” Exactly?

Quick refresher: If you’re looking at your left hand, palm down, the “ring finger” is the fourth finger — between your middle finger and pinky.

Fun fact: The term ring finger is actually used because of the engagement and wedding ring tradition — not the other way around.

Is It Different in Other Cultures?

Yes — and it’s fascinating.

• Germany, Russia, India, Norway, and Spain often use the right hand for both engagement and wedding rings.

• In Brazil and Colombia, couples may wear the engagement ring on the right hand and switch it to the left after the wedding.

• In Jewish tradition, the wedding ring is sometimes placed on the right index finger during the ceremony.

So if you’re blending cultures or have heritage in other parts of the world, this can be a beautiful opportunity to honour that in your ring placement.

What If You’re Left-Handed?

You can absolutely wear your engagement ring on your right hand if:

• You write, work, or do physical tasks with your left

• You want to protect the ring from more wear

• You simply find it more comfortable

Jewellery should work with your life, not against it.

Do You Have To Follow the Traditional Hand?

Not at all.

Modern love isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is the way we wear our symbols of commitment. Whether you:

• Wear your ring on the right or left

• Switch it post-wedding

• Stack it with other rings

• Or choose a different finger entirely…

It’s about what feels right to you.

The meaning doesn’t come from the finger. It comes from the love behind the ring.

A Tip for Proposers: Ask Gently in Advance

If you’re planning a surprise proposal and aren’t sure which hand or finger your partner would prefer, try asking subtle questions or chatting with close friends or family.

You could also:

• Look through their Pinterest boards

• Pay attention to how they wear other rings

• Ask them to try on a ring “for fun” sometime

• Use our Ring Size Guide to measure a ring from the correct hand

FAQs

Q: What if my partner wants to wear the engagement ring on a different finger?
A: Totally fine. The ring’s meaning doesn’t change depending on where it’s worn. Comfort, symbolism, and personal style are all valid reasons to choose a different placement.

Q: Is it weird to wear the ring on the right hand?
A: Not at all. It’s common in many cultures and becoming increasingly accepted for left-handed wearers or LGBTQ+ couples.

Q: Do I need to wear the wedding ring and engagement ring on the same hand?
A: Most people do, but it’s optional. Some wear them on separate hands for comfort or aesthetic reasons.

Q: What if I don't want to wear a ring at all?
A: That’s your choice! More couples are embracing non-ring options like custom necklaces, tattoos, or simply no jewellery at all.