Finger rings are one of the most versatile types of jewelry — you can stack them with thick bands, wear them with a thin band or even with a signet ring. They also tend to be less bulky than other types of rings, so they’re good for people who want to keep their hands looking uncluttered and sophisticated. The pinky finger is also farthest from your primary gripping fingers, so it’s a great place for highly-decorative rings that tell others about your personality and interests. This finger has been favored for signs of status like crests and coats of arms since the Victorian Period, but they can also be worn to indicate a profession or graduation degree.
Our fingers change size throughout the day based on temperature, activity and what we’ve eaten (especially salty foods). If you’re trying on rings to measure for your ring size, do it at the end of the day when your fingers are warm. You’ll be able to get a more accurate measurement. You should also avoid measuring your fingers right after ice skating or after a mad dash through the mall, as these activities can cause your hands to shrink.
Rings on the pinky finger symbolize trust and loyalty. They’re often seen on women, indicating that their partner is supportive of their goals and ambitions. They can also be worn to signify commitment to a cause or community. For instance, many nurses and other healthcare professionals choose to wear a ring on their pinky finger to remind them of the work they do every day and their commitment to helping people heal.
Traditionally, the ring finger has been associated with devotion and obligation. This symbolism comes from the ancient belief that a major vein ran directly from the ring finger to the heart, making it a natural location for rings of romance or marriage. In modern times, it’s become common for married couples to wear matching ring sets on their ring finger, a tradition that’s also often associated with fertility.
The index finger represents confidence in business. It’s where prominent families centuries ago displayed their crests and seals, and it’s still a popular location for ring styles that signify professional achievement or accomplishment in a particular field, such as engineering.
Because the thumb is a separate finger from the other digits, it can be worn in a way that highlights it as a distinct personality trait. It’s also where some men like to display their rings of military rank or membership crests. The thickness of the thumb makes it a good spot for bigger, chunky rings that can’t easily fit on other fingers. It’s also a convenient spot for men who have small hands or are concerned that larger, more elaborate rings might overwhelm their appearance. The thumb is a great place for signet rings, too.