Royal jewelry moments always spark conversation—but they also remind us how personal ring choices really are.
The Princess of Wales was recently spotted wearing her original sapphire engagement ring once again—a 12-carat oval sapphire surrounded by 14 round diamonds, passed down from Princess Diana. For much of late 2024, she’d been wearing a diamond and sapphire eternity ring instead, which many believed had become the new staple in her jewellery box. But on her wedding anniversary in April 2025, she returned to tradition.
It’s a powerful reminder of just how engagement and wedding rings carry meaning, memory, and intention.
When it comes to how you wear wedding and engagement rings, is it all personal preference? Or are there other traditions and considerations people should take into account? In this post, we break it all down: How do you actually wear them? What finger? What order? And is there really a “correct” way?
In many Western countries—including Canada and the U.S.—engagement and wedding rings are typically worn together on the fourth finger of the left hand (also known as the “ring finger”). This practice goes back centuries to the ancient belief that a vein ran directly from this finger to the heart. While the anatomy may be questionable, the sentiment stuck. And so did the tradition.
Typically, the wedding band is worn first—closest to the heart—followed by the engagement ring on top. This is the usual approach during and after the marriage ceremony: the wedding band is placed on the finger during the vows on the wedding day, and the engagement ring is added back afterward. Most couples even design their rings as a matching set. For some that means an identical band width/style and for others with a fancy stone shape or low setting profile, with a band that curves perfectly around the center stone for a seamless look.
But here’s the truth: there’s no hard and fast rule.
Some clients prefer to wear just one ring—their wedding band—on a daily basis, keeping their diamond engagement ring for special occasions. This might be a practical choice based on profession (especially if you work with your hands), or simply a matter of comfort. Others wear the rings separately—one on each hand—or switch fingers altogether based on how the rings fit and sit.
It’s also common to design around a particular lifestyle. A bold solitaire engagement ring can be paired with a slim wedding band to balance the look. Or, if the engagement ring is low profile, a contoured or curved band can hug the stone beautifully for a fluid, organic shape.
Whatever your approach, the goal is to create a set of rings that feels both wearable and meaningful.
While the left ring finger is typical in many Western cultures, it’s far from universal. In Germany, Norway, and several Eastern European countries, the wedding band is traditionally worn on the right ring finger. In parts of South America, people wear their engagement rings on their right hand, then switch it to the left during the wedding ceremony. In other cultures, it’s common to see rings worn on different fingers altogether—or to forgo one of the rings entirely.
So, if you’re asking “Do you wear an engagement and wedding ring on the same finger?”—the answer depends on where you live, what you value, and what feels right for you.
Clients often ask, “Which comes first—the engagement or wedding ring?” Traditionally, the wedding band is placed first during the ceremony, and it stays there, closest to the heart. But that’s not a fixed rule. Some people wear their engagement ring first because it was the original symbol of commitment. Others choose the order based on the design itself—especially if the two rings don’t sit flush or one is more visually dominant.
What’s most important is how the rings feel when worn together. If you’re still in the design phase, our team can help you consider band width, diamond placement, ring profile, and how your two (or more) rings will interact when stacked. Whether you’re planning to wear multiple rings daily or want a single, versatile piece, we’ll help you think it through.
Designing your rings to work together is both a practical and aesthetic decision. A minimal engagement ring can transform completely when paired with a bold diamond wedding band. Or vice versa—a statement engagement ring might pair beautifully with a delicate antique-inspired band featuring millgrain details or fancy shaped diamonds.
Another consideration is how the rings will wear together over time. Two rings worn on the same finger will naturally rub together with daily wear. We can help advise what styles will have the least amount of impact and wear over time when worn together.
We also love working with clients who want something completely unique—maybe an asymmetrical stack, an eclectic set, or a ring and wedding band made from different metals (white gold or platinum and yellow gold is a particularly striking combination). Your rings don’t have to match in the traditional sense. They just need to make sense to you.
And if you’re redesigning an heirloom ring or adding a new ring to an existing set, we’ll help you create something that feels integrated and intentional—while respecting the original piece.
However you want. That’s the short answer.
Tradition offers a lovely starting point, but there’s no one “correct” way. Some people love stacking their rings on the same finger. Others separate them across both hands. Some wear just one ring. Some wear several. And some change it up depending on the day.
What matters most is that your rings reflect your story, your comfort, and your personal style. If that means following tradition, wonderful. If it means rewriting it, even better.
At Alexis Gallery, we create engagement rings and wedding bands that feel as good to wear as they do to look at. Every piece is custom made in our Toronto studio, using ethically sourced materials, thoughtful craftsmanship, and a collaborative process that keeps you involved at every step.
Whether you’re designing your first ring or exploring styling options for your unique stack, we’re here to guide you with clarity, creativity, and care.
Ready to find out what feels right for you?
Book your free phone consultation to start the conversation,we’d love to help you. Toronto-made custom rings that feel like home on your hand—and in your story.
