Our editors carefully select every product. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn More.

Men’s Rings – Meaning of Each Finger

For centuries, jewelry has been an integral part of a woman’s style. Chains with pendants, rings, earrings, and bracelets have become a lovely addition to both casual and elegant looks.

Men's Ring Meaning Behind them

As for men, they value rings more than anything else. The main timeless male accessory is a signet ring. It was often decorated with a family coat of arms or a family monogram. It functioned as a seal for waxing papers, a miniature watch, or a vial of poison for a sworn enemy. 

In the past, this male jewelry symbolized privilege and nobility. In this article, we will tell you what meaning it carries today. 

Men Love Symbolism

If women wear jewelry for beauty and a balanced image, men rarely do something just for fun but with a particular purpose.  There is no unambiguous answer to the question, “What does wearing a signet ring mean?” 

Many men, many minds, many symbols. However, most often, the meaning of the rings is linked to centuries of history, culture, and family traditions. A ring can be a family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation – from great-grandfather to grandfather, from grandfather to father, from father to son. 

Many things, including the value of such jewelry, depend on the material it is made of (gold, silver, platinum, etc.), its engraving, or its family coat of arms. Precious stones can also significantly increase their value. Visit https://yourasteria.com to find out more about materials, gemstones and overall handmade rings value.

There are different opinions regarding the meaning of men’s rings. In most cases, it is associated with a profession. Business people who want to emphasize their social status and impress their partners or contractors favor this type of men’s jewelry. They choose garish models, often made of gold or platinum, adorned with diamonds.

Traditionally, a ring on the index finger indicates leadership; on the middle finger – mental balance; on the ring finger – strong character and emotional attachment; on the little finger – individualism; and on the big finger – wealth.

The left hand reflects a person’s mentality and character. And the right hand symbolizes his strength, activity, and power.  

The Ring Finger

Obviously, it was the wedding tradition that gave it its name. This is the finger on which the engagement ring is placed. This is the finger newlyweds put their wedding rings on. It is the finger to look at when single girls meet a handsome guy. 

The Little Finger

According to English tradition, men should wear a ring on their left little finger. Until the 19-20th centuries, this finger symbolized rulers’ power. 

Nowadays, a piece of jewelry on it could signify affiliation to a criminal group, clan, or community or emphasize sexual openness. Sometimes it indicates unconventional thinking, a rich imagination, a fine mental organization, and a tendency to adventurism. But psychologists believe that if a person wears a ring on both little fingers, he bans himself from emotions and passions. 

What Does a Gold Ring on a Man’s Index Finger Mean?

  • Bishops wore a ring on this finger to show their high social status. 
  • Jews, instead of the ring finger, wear wedding rings on their index finger. 
  • Influential European men use it to emphasize their wealth or social status.

Middle Finger

The tradition of wearing a ring on the middle finger comes from the Chinese Yin and Yang concept. It is believed to help wearers distinguish good from bad, find balance and harmony in life. Psychologists recommend constantly wearing silver or gold jewelry on this finger to increase self-confidence and self-esteem. 

Besides, it is most comfortable finger to wear a ring and get used to it faster.

Thumb

In ancient times, Greeks believed the ring on this finger to be a talisman of health, vitality, and courage. No wonder it symbolizes masculinity in so many countries. 

In addition, those who wear ring on their thumb are passionate and open.

Is It Acceptable to Have Two Rings on One Hand?

Yes, but you should remember the proportions: small hands – delicate jewelry, and vice versa. Also, it would help if you considered the visual balance. Four rings on one hand plus a watch – such an image can suit only an eccentric rapper. To avoid looking silly, you better wear one signet ring or two vintage promise rings on the right hand and a wedding ring on the left.

Do I Wear Two Rings on the Same Finger?

It is not uncommon for couples who have been together for over 25 years to wear a silver and a gold ring on the same finger and widows and widowers in memory of their deceased spouse. 

There are as many ways to wear a man’s ring as there are cultures. Today there are no restrictions – the choice is all up to you. 

What do you think?

Written by Mark Greene

Mark Greene is writer and life coach dedicated to helping men to perform at peak level. He shares dating advice, style tips and strategies for building wealth and success.