Engagement Ring Traditions and Tips for Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day is one of the most significant moments of your life, filled with love, joy, and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Among these traditions is the symbolic act of wearing your engagement ring, a piece of jewelry that has accompanied you on your journey to this special day. But with so much focus on the wedding band during the ceremony, you might wonder: What should you do with your engagement ring on your wedding day? Let’s explore the traditions and options for handling your engagement ring during the ceremony.

 

 

The Tradition Behind Wearing the Engagement Ring

The tradition of wearing an engagement ring on the fourth finger of the left hand, commonly known as the “ring finger,” dates back centuries. It was believed that this finger had a vein, the “vena amoris,” that ran directly to the heart, symbolizing love and commitment. While we now know this isn’t anatomically accurate, the sentiment remains.

Traditionally, the engagement ring is worn on this finger throughout the engagement period and is accompanied by the wedding band after the vows are exchanged. The question is, how do you manage both rings during the ceremony?

 

 

Options for Your Engagement Ring

While the traditional approach is popular, there are other options depending on your personal preference, cultural practices, and the design of your rings.

Option 1: Move the Engagement Ring to the Right Hand

One of the most popular solutions is to move your engagement ring to your right hand before the ceremony. This keeps the left ring finger free for your wedding band. After the ceremony, you can move your engagement ring back to your left hand, placing it above the wedding band. This option allows for a seamless exchange of rings during the ceremony and ensures that both rings have their moment to shine.

Option 2: Keep the Engagement Ring on Your Left Hand

Some brides choose to keep their engagement ring on the left hand during the ceremony. In this case, the wedding band is placed on top of the engagement ring. After the ceremony, you can choose to leave the rings as they are or switch their order so that the wedding band is closer to your heart, with the engagement ring on top.

Option 3: Hand Off the Engagement Ring to a Trusted Person

Another option is to give your engagement ring to a trusted person, such as your maid of honor or a family member, before the ceremony. They can keep it safe until after the vows, when you can slip it back onto your finger alongside your new wedding band. This approach ensures that the wedding band is placed directly on your finger without any interruptions.

Option 4: Skip Wearing the Engagement Ring During the Ceremony

Some brides opt not to wear their engagement ring during the ceremony at all, choosing to keep the focus entirely on the wedding band. You can leave your engagement ring in a safe place or with a trusted person and put it back on after the ceremony. This minimalist approach highlights the significance of the wedding band as the symbol of your new marital bond.

Personalizing the Tradition

While these options are rooted in tradition, remember that your wedding day is ultimately about you and your partner. There’s no right or wrong way to handle your engagement ring during the ceremony—it’s all about what feels most meaningful to you. Whether you choose to follow tradition or create a new one, your engagement and wedding rings will continue to symbolize the love and commitment you share.

 

 

Cultural Variations

It’s important to note that traditions and customs can vary based on culture, religion, and personal beliefs. For example, in some European countries, it’s customary to wear the engagement ring on the right hand, both before and after the wedding. In Jewish ceremonies, the wedding ring is traditionally placed on the index finger of the right hand during the ceremony and moved to the ring finger afterward.

 

 

The Symbolism of the Wedding Band

The wedding band is a powerful symbol of your marriage vows, representing eternal love and commitment. Many brides and grooms choose to wear their wedding bands closest to the heart, with the engagement ring sitting above it. This order is believed to signify that the marriage, represented by the wedding band, is the foundation of your relationship, with the engagement ring as a cherished reminder of the journey that led to your special day.

 

 

Choosing the Right Wedding Band

As you consider what to do with your engagement ring during the ceremony, it’s also a great time to think about how your wedding band complements it. Some couples choose bands that match or enhance the engagement ring, while others opt for a contrasting design to create a unique look. At Diamonds by Monet we offer a wide range of wedding bands that pair beautifully with all types of engagement rings, ensuring that your rings look stunning together on your special day and beyond.

Final Thoughts: Your Choice, Your Style

Ultimately, how you choose to wear your engagement ring on your wedding day is a personal decision. Whether you follow tradition, create your own custom, or blend different practices, the most important thing is that it feels right for you and your partner. Your wedding day is a celebration of your unique love story, and your rings are a beautiful part of that story.

As you plan your ceremony, take a moment to consider the symbolism and meaning behind your rings. Whether you opt for tradition or something more modern, your engagement ring and wedding band will continue to be cherished symbols of your love and commitment for years to come.

At Diamonds by Monet, we’re here to help you navigate all your wedding jewelry needs, from finding the perfect wedding band to ensuring your engagement ring is ready for the big day. Visit us in-store or online to explore our collection and let us be part of your love story.