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Wedding & Celebrations

On which hand should you wear an engagement ring?

The emblem of true love

More than just a piece of jewellery, an engagement ring marks an unforgettable moment. For this reason, these creations hold real symbolic weight.
Although there are no set rules on how to wear one, there are traditions dating back to antiquity.

On which hand should you wear an engagement ring? Chaumet reveals the history of this deeply sentimental jewellery.

Between tradition and symbolism

Whilst the engagement ring is now an expression of love, this has not always been the case. In the past, when a woman wore this ring, it simply meant she was officially betrothed. It was not a romantic token, but a contractual one between families.

The ring’s circular shape, with no beginning and no end, represents eternity and infinite love. However, this jewellery used to look a little different. Before it became a white gold solitaire set with diamonds, the engagement ring was a circle made from grass, wood or leather. Then iron, silver and finally gold went on to replace these materials.
Nowadays, the engagement ring that appeals most to couples is a gold ring with a single diamond in the centre, known as a “solitaire”.

Since ancient times, it has been common to see the engagement ring worn on the ring finger of the left hand. The Romans believed the “vena amoris” (vein of love) connected this finger directly to the heart, the body’s emotional centre. Giving the gift of a ring is therefore a way of drawing closer to your soulmate’s heart.

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On which hand should you wear an engagement ring?

In France, the engagement ring is usually worn by the woman on the ring finger of her left hand.

As well as the symbolism associated with it, the left is also favoured for practical reasons. In everyday life, many people tend to use their right hand more when carrying out manual tasks.

By wearing your engagement ring on your left hand, you are therefore less likely to damage it. You can be sure that your jewellery will retain its shine for longer.

In other countries, the engagement ring is traditionally worn on the right hand. This is the case in Switzerland and other southern European countries.

How to wear your engagement ring once you’re married

When you get married, the wedding band is slipped onto your left ring finger alongside your engagement ring.

This is why Chaumet offers engagement rings with matching bands, so you can wear both rings on the same finger.

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Designed to unite

How to choose your engagement ring

Since every story is unique, Chaumet designs engagement rings in a variety of styles, from timeless silhouettes to contemporary creations.

The Maison’s advisors can guide you through the process of choosing this highly symbolic piece, to help you find the one that best reflects your story.

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Chaumet’s emblematic collections

Joséphine

A Joséphine wedding band fits naturally against the curve of a solitaire, creating a harmonious pair reminiscent of a diamond tiara.

Bee de Chaumet

Paired with a white or rose gold wedding band, the Bee de Chaumet engagement ring creates a modern and radiant combination.

Liens

The Liens engagement rings match pared-back wedding bands for a striking duet.

Torsade de Chaumet

The spiral design of the Torsade de Chaumet rings complements a minimalist or pavé-diamond wedding band.