We invite you to another pulse-pounding chapter in Ben Garelick’s ultra-glam world of jaw-dropping jewels! 

Look, we know you’re on the constant prowl for the freshest trends, surfing the high waves of Instagram aesthetics and Pinterest panache. 

But today, we're going beyond the grid—into the hidden meaning of rings!

Yes, rings! 

Those small but impactful circles that say so much about you, your style, and perhaps, a smidgen about your soul. 

Intrigued? Read on.

The History of Finger Meanings

Let's take a scenic detour through time before we get into the nitty-gritty of individual fingers (Oh, and we will!). 

Imagine if rings could talk! 

Their tales would wind through history, intertwining with tradition, symbolism, and a smattering of mysticism.

Kings wore them, spies exchanged them, and lovers sealed eternal bonds with them (a bunch of hobbits even traversed an entire realm for one of them!)

Rings have always been about more than just bling; they’re visual sound bites of personal storytelling. 

And who better to curate that story than you?

Thumb Ring

Thumbs up, style avant-gardes! 

Wearing a ring on the thumb is like a megaphone for your individuality. Traditionally, it’s linked to willpower and freedom, with its roots in ancient archers wearing thumb rings for protection. 

Men wearing rings on their thumbs is thought to date back to ancient Greece, where they symbolized power, influence, and wealth.

For women, it’s all about agency, choice, and character.

And yet, the true meaning comes from the individual wearer so that you can rock a thumb ring for any desire.

Today, a thumb ring is your red-carpet entrance into the VIP room of self-expression. 

It screams, "I won’t adhere to the status quo!" And let’s be honest, that’s the sort of spirit we love!

Index Finger Ring

Pointing you toward stylish sovereignty rings on the index finger is your ticket to a regal rendezvous. 

Historically, these were the rings of leaders, kings, and anyone with the audacity to point and say, “Make it so!” 

Fast forward to the now, and an index finger ring still says, “I’ve got this.” It's the life of the party, the show's director; it's you in metal form.

Index finger rings are most commonly associated with leadership, confidence, and self-love.

But you know what we’ll say: Make its meaning your own!

Middle Finger Ring

Ah, the middle finger, the most misunderstood of all the fingers.

Contrary to popular belief, a ring on this finger doesn't mean rebellion—it's actually about balance and responsibility.

Placed on the finger that's literally in the middle of it all, it's the diplomat of the ringworld. 

So, if you’re sporting a ring on this finger, you’re broadcasting the message: "I've got my life together, thank you very much."

It’s a game of stability, power, and balance - depending on how much you use it for *other* gestures, it is the most vulnerable to damage and scratching.

If the middle finger is your thing, go for a slimmer-sized ring!

Ring Finger Ring

Need we say more? 

The ring finger is the A-lister of the hand, hogging the spotlight with engagement and wedding rings. Arguably, it’s the one doing all the heavy lifting!

But beyond the romantic tales, this finger has a direct line to the heart—symbolically, but many an ancient society believe that it was anatomically linked to your heart.

Scientists later disproved this, but we can play fantasy in the name of love!

Don a ring here, and it’s not just about love, but a heart-to-heart connection with your inner romantic.

Pinky Finger Ring

Tiny but mighty! 

A pinky ring may be small, but it packs a visual punch. 

Traditionally, it’s all about communication and intuition. Some even suggest that it’s a master in the art of persuasion.

Back in the 19th century days, a pinky ring on a man’s hand was seen as a symbol he was married. Palm experts also say that the pinky is linked to Mercury - so do with that what you will!

The pinky finger is the influencer of your ring game, the subtle nod to a life lived out loud.

It adds an extra level of sophistication as you showcase the sparkles while sipping your morning coffee!

Cultural Variations of Finger Meanings

Hold onto your rings, people; we’re globe-trotting! 

Ever noticed how the right index finger is adorned at traditional Jewish weddings? 

Or that some cultures prefer rings on the right ring finger rather than the left? 

Yep, ring-wearing is as diverse as the latest runway collections, reminding us that the fashion world is a colorful patchwork quilt of meaning and style.

Right Index Finger for Traditional Jewish Weddings

In Jewish weddings, the ring is placed on the right index finger as it is believed to be the most active finger and, therefore, the one that will be seen more.

It is also customary that the ring should not be a show-off.

Instead, a plain band without gemstones is the go-to look, and it must be one that belongs to the groom!

It’s a tradition oozing with centuries of sentiment.

Right Ring Finger Instead of Left in Some Cultures

In countries like Russia and India, the right ring finger is often the chosen digit for wedding bands, a nod to local customs and beliefs. 

It’s a reminder that while trends might be global, traditions are proudly local.

Over here in the States and the U.K., the left-hand ring finger is agreed to be traditional, but as we push into the 21st century, more people opt to wear rings how they feel.

It isn’t uncommon to see them adorned on any finger, on a necklace, and, at times, not at all!

Some of Our Favorite Rings

It's time to spill the tea on some of our absolute faves!

The Boho Chic: 

Perfect for thumb ring enthusiasts, this free-spirited stunner mirrors your wild soul.

The Urban Queen: 

Designed for the index finger, it turns heads and commands rooms.

The Balanced Gem: 

Slide this onto your middle finger and exude a zen-like aura.

The Heart Throb: 

Slip this onto your ring finger and let romance—or self-love—blossom.

The Social Butterfly: 

Adorn your pinky and unleash your inner influencer!

Why Just Adorn When You Can Adore?

We’ve decoded the hidden language of rings for you. 

Each finger tells a story—a narrative you and only you can curate. 

Now it’s your turn to don that storytelling hat and make ring history! I

Need some more tantalizing insights? 

Swing by the Ben Garelick showroom or chat with our ring experts online. 

After all, when it comes to rings, there’s always more than meets the eye. 

Don't just adorn; ADORE. And while you're at it, make sure it’s a Ben Garelick masterpiece designed to reflect the multi-faceted diamond that is you!

Until next time, keep shining, styling, and, most importantly, keep making each finger a chapter in your spellbinding story!

Peter Manka Jr. - Owner at Ben Garelick

Peter Manka Jr. is a passionate member of the family business who joined Ben Garelick in the early 2000s after working in product licensing for Sesame Workshop & The Jim Henson Company for many years. He obtained a degree in diamonds and jewelry from the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in order to sharpen his jewelry skills. He takes great pride in providing exceptional customer service and helping clients find the perfect piece of jewelry.