The Wedding Ring Finger in Spain: Everything to Know

By Liz Flynn Apr 16, 2024

Many people in the United States are used to seeing married couples wear their wedding rings on their left hand. But did you know that other countries do it a little differently?

Today, we’re diving into Spain's rich history and culture to learn about their wedding ring customs. Do Spanish couples wear their wedding ring on the left or right hand? What about the engagement ring?

Keep reading to learn the etiquette and tradition behind the wedding ring finger in Spain, along with fun styling tips and sustainable options that modern couples embrace.

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The History of the Wedding Ring in Spain

The wedding ring has a long and rich history in Spain.

Wedding rings came into popular use in Spain around the 15th century. The Catholic Church encouraged the practice of exchanging rings during the wedding ceremony.

Engagement and wedding rings traditionally signify love and commitment to one’s partner. Wearing a wedding ring is a visual way of communicating with the world that you are in a dedicated, loving relationship with your special someone.

Poesy rings were quite popular in Spain during the 18th and 19th centuries. A man would gift a poesy ring to their female partner as a sign of commitment. Poesy rings featured an engraving of a romantic poem or line on the inside of the ring.

Today, engagement and wedding rings continue to represent eternal love and commitment between two people. Spanish couples can decide whether they want to keep with cultural traditions or try something new.

What is the Wedding Ring Finger in Spain?

Many may assume that Spanish couples wear their wedding rings on the left hand, but that is not the case.

It is a Spanish tradition for men and women to wear the wedding ring on the ring finger of the right hand.

The right-hand wedding ring practice is common throughout Spain, except for the Catalonia region, where couples traditionally wear their wedding rings on the left-hand ring finger.

Ultimately, the wedding ring finger in Spain depends on the region and the couple's preferences.

Learn more about ten other countries that wear wedding rings on the right hand.

Why the Right Hand in Spain?

There isn’t one single reason why Spanish couples traditionally wear their wedding ring on the fourth finger of the right hand.

Wedding ring placement has roots in Spanish tradition and culture. Roman Catholic tradition has also contributed to the right-hand placement of the wedding ring.

The right hand is traditionally considered the “hand of God,” which bestows grace and divine approval.

Historically, the right hand was more associated with righteousness and morality than the left. This belief has faded with time and understanding, but cultural remnants remain in many countries, Spain included.

Many couples wear their wedding ring on the right hand to carry on cultural traditions, follow religious beliefs, or feel connected to each other and their families.

What About the Engagement Ring?

As for the engagement ring, women traditionally wear it on the ring finger of the left hand. When they get married, the wedding band goes on the ring finger on the right hand.

Stacking the engagement and wedding ring together on one finger isn’t as common in Spain compared to other parts of the world.

Pros and Cons

There are pros and cons to wearing your wedding ring on the right hand.

Most people are right-handed. Wearing a wedding band on the right-hand ring finger makes your ring more prominent and noticeable. Your love and dedication to your partner are easily visible when wearing your wedding ring on your right hand.

On the other hand, wearing a ring on the right hand can have drawbacks if that is your dominant hand. Your wedding band has a higher chance of getting scratched or damaged if you use your right hand more throughout the day.

It is essential to be mindful of your ring and take good care of it. Jewelers highly recommend regular cleaning, polishing, and maintenance.

Do’s and Don’ts

A wedding ring, just like a marriage, is a big responsibility. Make sure you’re following these general guidelines with your wedding ring.

Wedding Ring Do’s

The world is your oyster when styling and wearing your wedding ring. There are plenty of options, including specialty engraving and custom stone settings.

One thing to do is to take off your wedding ring in certain situations to avoid losing it. Take your ring off and store it in a safe place when you are cleaning, swimming, or doing other rigorous activities.

You can also wear your wedding ring as a necklace if you have to take your ring off for work but still want to wear it.

Wedding Ring Don’ts

Nowadays, there isn’t much you can’t do with a wedding ring. Many people venture out from traditional ring etiquette to fit their lifestyle and personal style.

The most important thing not to do is neglect your wedding ring. A wedding ring symbolizes your love and dedication to your partner. You want to care for your ring just as much as you care for your relationship. Make sure you regularly clean your ring and take it in for necessary repairs.

Types of Wedding Rings

There are endless possibilities when it comes to wedding rings. Men and women alike can choose anything from a classic gold band to elaborate stone settings. Traditionally, Spanish couples both wear a simple gold band on the right hand.

Diamonds remain the most popular type of wedding and engagement ring in Spain. Solitaire and emerald cut diamonds are traditional options for engagement rings.

Other stones and styles are becoming more popular as younger couples buck tradition. Alternative stones and metals like sapphires and tungsten are excellent options if you’re looking for something unique and different.

For many couples, sustainability has become a crucial part of wedding ring shopping. When shopping for a wedding ring, men and women look for ethically sourced gemstones and recycled metal materials.

Explore our favorite eco-friendly and recycled wedding rings.

Styles for Women

There are many different styles when it comes to wedding rings. Many women choose a classic gold band that matches their partner’s ring.

Other styling options include wedding bands with small diamonds, special engraving, or unique metals.

Styles for Men

Most men go with a classic gold band for their wedding ring style. However, there are a plethora of options to choose from.

Euro shank, beveled, and round wedding bands are popular options. Alternative materials like tungsten have also become popular in recent years.

Get more styling tips with our men’s guide to wearing multiple rings.

Wedding Outfits for Women

The wedding day is a big event full of excitement. All eyes are on the bride, so many women choose to go all out with their outfits.

Most women wear a white wedding dress on their wedding day. There are endless styles, from strapless to long-sleeved.

Many brides choose to make their own traditions when it comes to their wedding day outfits. White jumpsuits, tuxedos, and alternative colors other than white have become popular outfits in recent decades.

Explore our selection of the best sustainable wedding dresses for your big day.

Wedding Outfits for Men

Traditionally, men wear a formal suit or tuxedo on their wedding day.

Styles range from colorful and lightweight to black-tie formal. The traditional men’s wedding outfit is a black tuxedo and a matching black bowtie.

However, many men wear colorful suits, fun ties, and even sneakers on their big day.

Ultimately, wedding outfits depend on the couple and how they want to portray themselves on their big day.

Whatever the couple chooses to wear, it is guaranteed to look great with their new wedding bands.

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About the Author: Liz Flynn

Liz Flynn is a freelance writer, fiber artist, and amateur art historian. She is passionate about making sustainable, ethical fashion accessible to everyone. In her spare time, Liz can be found crocheting, reading, hiking, or hanging out with her beloved dog, Atwood. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Art History and Education from UC Riverside.