When it comes to engagement and wedding rings, there are plenty of traditions—but not always clear rules. If you’re feeling all the flutter of excitement but also a bit confused about the “correct” way to wear your rings, you’re not alone. At Alexis Gallery, we get these questions all the time: Which hand should the engagement ring go on? Do I wear it on the wedding day? Is it the same as a wedding band?
Spoiler alert: It’s more flexible than you might think.
As The Guardian noted in a 2023 piece about engagement rings, more and more couples are bucking tradition. While traditions still influence what many people choose, modern couples are redefining the symbolic meaning behind engagement and wedding jewelry, as well as how they are designed and worn.
This roundup unpacks some of the most-Googled engagement and wedding ring questions out there, to help you learn more about everything from how people wear engagement rings to changing design preferences, and more!
In many Western cultures, the engagement ring finger is traditionally the fourth finger of the left hand—often called the “ring finger.” This tradition dates back to Ancient Rome, where people believed a vein connected that particular finger directly to the heart .
So, if you’re wondering what finger is used for the engagement ring in Canada, the left ring finger is the norm in Canada (and most Western countries).
But that’s just tradition, not a hard rule. In some cultures, the right hand ring finger is preferred. And in same sex marriage ceremonies, couples often decide for themselves what feels most symbolic.
Absolutely. Whether it’s about cultural heritage, personal comfort, or a just because vibe, wearing your engagement ring on your right hand is entirely valid.
They serve different purposes, but both symbolize commitment.
At Alexis Gallery, every engagement ring is made from scratch—so whether you want two rings, one statement ring, or something in between, you’ll get exactly what fits your story.
There’s no wrong answer here.
You can certainly wear your engagement ring on your wedding day, but you may need to move it.
Here’s why: Tradition dictates that the wedding ring is worn “closest to the heart”—meaning it goes on the bottom, with the engagement ring stacked above it on the same finger. That would be the left hand ring finger, if you’re following Western custom.
To pull this off:
Pre-made “bridal sets” are commonly sold with both the engagement ring and a matching band. At Alexis Gallery, every ring we make is fully custom. That means your wedding and engagement rings can be designed to pair beautifully—but don’t have to be purchased at the same time.
If you are looking for a custom ring crafted in Toronto, it all starts with a conversation. Just you and one of our designers, talking through your ideas, questions, and what matters most to you. From there, we’ll guide you through the design process. You can schedule your call here.
A proposal ring is typically just another name for an engagement ring—the ring given when one partner asks the other to marry them.
But in some cases (especially if you have a tight timeline or are nervous to travel with the real ring), couples opt for a symbolic piece during the proposal and later upgrade to a custom engagement ring.
Think of it this way:
Many western countries follow the tradition of placing the engagement ring on the left hand, but it’s not universal—and it’s not law. In countries like Germany, Russia, and India, engagement rings are commonly worn on the right hand.
The idea of wearing two rings on the same hand is also a modern development, and you may see people flip rings between hands over time.
Some people ask if wearing a ring on the ‘wrong hand’ is bad luck. There might be some old fables about that, but there’s nothing unlucky about choosing what’s right for you.
At Alexis Gallery, we design rings with you in mind—not “shoulds” or mass-market templates. Our clients work one-on-one with a designer to co-create something meaningful and unique, whether that’s a statement engagement ring, a classic wedding band, or a beautifully cohesive set.
Need help with ring size? Want advice on two rings vs. one? Curious how your ring and wedding band will sit together? We’ve got answers—and we’re always just a call away. Book your phone meeting with Alexis Gallery today and start creating a one-of-a-kind ring you’ll love (on any finger) for a lifetime.
