You will usually know if a guy is married when you see a ring on his finger. For men, it is not their usual bling-bling that they wear to be in style. Instead, it is a huge sign of a man’s respect for his spouse. It can also be a symbol of his commitment and loyalty to something relevant to his life. Tactical wedding rings, class rings, or any rings, the piece of jewelry sends a message to those who see it being worn by men.
That said, not only women love to wear rings but also a lot of men. As mentioned, it symbolizes a lot of things. It may be because the ring on a man’s finger means he’s not romantically available to others anymore. Or perhaps he is part of a brotherhood. Or he is used to a culture where showing off his social status and wealth is a regular thing. Regardless of the meaning, a personalized ring will always add a unique touch and special reminder to the wearer.
Men’s rings 101
Wearing a ring on each finger symbolizes something. For example, most married men (and women) wear their wedding rings on their left ring fingers. But in some cases, the situation changes. For example, a man that was married in an Eastern Orthodox church wears his on the right ring finger. Women also wear their engagement rings on the other ring finger, but some men choose not to do so anymore.
Some organizations or schools also have a specific rule on how to wear their batch rings. However, it is usually up to the individual on how he wants it to be worn. There are rules on which hand to wear a specific ring as well. Again, it can be up to the wearer, depending on which side is the dominant one or the so-called mental one.
The ring finger is said to have a vein that is connected directly to the heart – the so-called “vena amoris” or translated as a vein of love. Hence, the usual tradition of wearing engagement and wedding rings on this specific finger. Aside from the conventional diamond or gold rings, there are also other cheaper and more practical rings that couples and individuals will surely love.
Meanwhile, some cultures include the custom of wearing rings on their pinky fingers. For example, rings usually worn by professionals put them on their wedding rings. Signet rings are also worn on the pinky finger.
The middle finger may be associated with that infamous obscene gesture. However, some men also opt to wear their rings on their middle fingers. Wearing a band on the middle finger signifies balance, boldness, and responsibility. On the other hand, wearing one on the index finger means leadership, authority, and power.
Lastly, some men wear rings on their thumbs. It can restrict your hand movement and even impractical to some. However, wearing a thumb ring symbolizes influence, social status, and wealth. You can wear as many rings as you want, as long as it represents something personal to you.
Despite all this symbolism, a ring isn’t only limited to women and a symbol of marriage. Instead, it also symbolizes other things that send a message to other people. Most of all, it should represent something significant to the wearer.
John Smith says
However one wears it, I’d definitely stick to a simple gold band!
Heidi says
I agree sometimes simple is best