Finger rings have long been a staple piece of jewelry for gentlemen of style and class throughout history. There is a wide range of different meanings associated with the fingers and their rings, which are based on cultural, traditional, and mystical associations. The way in which you wear your rings, and the finger on which you do so, can reveal a great deal about your character and beliefs, as well as your relationship status and other social customs.
The index finger is traditionally worn with a ring, and reflects confidence, self-esteem, and leadership qualities. It is also the most dominant finger, so wearing a ring on it can signal dominance and authority. Many of the famous men and women in history wore their rings on this finger, including Abraham Lincoln and Adolf Hitler.
In the ring sizer, a slot is cut on the dotted line. Wrap the ring sizer around the base of your finger and slide the pointed end through the slot to fit snugly, but not too tight. The number displayed on the ring sizer is your ring size.
If you’re purchasing a ring for someone else, it’s best to have their finger professionally sized. Even a few mm off can throw off the measurement and lead to an incorrect result. It’s also a good idea to have your finger measured at room temperature during the day, as it will be less swollen than after eating or exercising.
A ring should be comfortably tight enough to pass over the knuckle, but not so tight that it is hard to remove. The most common size for a ring is a 7 for women and a 10 for men, though some prefer a smaller or larger ring.
The middle finger is usually left bare, unless it is used for manual tasks like writing. A ring on this finger symbolizes balance and responsibility, and is associated with Saturn, so simple gray metals are often chosen. The ring on this finger can also indicate profession, as many professional trades, such as engineers, architects, and lawyers, prefer to wear their rings on the middle finger.
Lastly, the pinky finger is commonly adorned with a ring. This finger is associated with love and romance, and is believed to represent communication and persuasion. Gemstones recommended for this finger include amber, moonstone, and citrine.
In the past, many gentlemen followed conventional conventions for which hand to wear a ring and what types of rings on each finger. While these traditions may not be as relevant for modern gentlemen, they can still provide some inspiration. If you’re looking for a new ring to add to your collection, try following some of these conventions, and see what you think! And don’t be afraid to break away from the rules once in a while. What’s most important is that your ring be comfortable and express your individuality.