Engagement rings have long been a symbol of love, devotion, and lifelong commitment. But for generations, that symbol has mostly adorned only the bride-to-be. Now, times are changing, and so is the jewelry.
So let’s ask it outright: Do men wear engagement rings?
Yes, they do. And not just to match their partners or mirror trends, they’re wearing them to own their love stories, to show the world they’re committed, and to reclaim a tradition that should have been equal from the start.
At Nakshu Jewels, we believe love deserves to be worn proudly by everyone. Our handcrafted men’s engagement rings are designed for those who aren’t afraid to challenge old norms and celebrate modern romance with style, intention, and sparkle.
The Origin
Historically, engagement rings were worn by women as a token of being "spoken for." This traces back to ancient Rome, and later in Victorian England, where women wore ornate bands to show loyalty and status.
Men, on the other hand, got the memo only at the altar with a plain wedding band, if that.
But many cultures have done things differently for years. In Sweden, Brazil, and Chile, it’s common for both partners to wear engagement rings.
In fact, in Chile, both partners wear the ring on their right hand, then shift it to the left after marriage.
The West is finally catching up, and so are Indian modern couples.
Male Engagement Rings
Fast-forward to today, and men’s engagement rings are gaining global traction.
The driving forces?
- Gender equality in relationships
- Same-sex marriages
- Women proposing to men
- Cultural shifts toward mutual commitment
Even global surveys support this transformation. A 2024 study by The Knot revealed that more than 7% of engaged men now wear an engagement ring, a number steadily climbing each year. The ring is no longer just a symbol of proposal; it’s an emblem of partnership.
Celebrity Influence
If there’s one thing that speeds up social acceptance, it’s celebrity sparkle.
When crooner Michael Bublé proudly wore his engagement ring, it made headlines. Ed Sheeran did the same, prompting thousands of fans to ask why this wasn’t already the norm. Other celebrities like Johnny Depp and even Bollywood actors have been spotted with symbolic bands long before the big wedding day.
These public statements are doing more than making headlines; they’re making men’s engagement rings mainstream.
Discover the best metal for men's wedding bands and rings to find the perfect match for your style and lifestyle.
Why Men Choose to Wear Engagement Rings
Men today want more than a handshake and a head nod when they commit; they want symbols.
A ring signifies:
- Mutual commitment and equality
- Pride in the engagement
- The desire to wear something meaningful
- Personal style and emotional connection
Just like women, many men find that the physical presence of a ring helps them emotionally connect with the engagement journey. It’s a visible celebration of love, and isn’t that what jewelry is all about?
Understand the key differences between an engagement and a promise ring.
Finger & Hand for Men's Engagement Rings
Traditional Finger for a Men's Engagement Ring
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Left Hand, Ring Finger
- This is the most traditional choice in many Western cultures (like the U.S., U.K., and Canada).
- It mirrors how women often wear engagement rings, symbolizing commitment and the heart (as the vein was once believed to run from this finger to the heart — vena amoris).
Alternative Options (Cultural & Personal Preferences)
1. Right Hand, Ring Finger
- Common in countries like Germany, Russia, India, and some Latin American countries.
- Some men choose this to differentiate the engagement ring from the future wedding ring (which might be worn on the left).
2. Left or Right Hand, Middle Finger
- Less traditional, but chosen for comfort or style.
- Some men prefer not to crowd the ring finger or want the ring to stand out more.
3. Any Finger (Including Pinky or Index)
- Depending on cultural norms, fashion preferences, or personal significance.
- Pinky rings have long been popular in some traditions and can carry meaning unrelated to marriage (like family heritage).
After the Wedding
- Some men continue wearing their engagement ring along with the wedding band (on the same finger or separate ones).
- Others may switch the engagement ring to the right hand or stop wearing it altogether.
Nakshu Jewels’ Take: Rings for the Modern Groom-to-Be
At Nakshu Jewels, we’ve seen a beautiful rise in couples coming in to choose rings for both partners. And we’ve embraced it wholeheartedly by crafting an exclusive line of engagement rings for men that blend modern artistry with international aesthetics.
Our men’s engagement ring collection includes:
- Statement Solitaire Engagement Ring – Smooth satin finish with diamond accent, perfect for minimalists
- Three Stone Engagement Ring – modern, masculine, and built for everyday wear
Every Nakshu design tells a story of love, legacy, and the man who’s unafraid to wear both.
How to Choose a Men’s Engagement Ring
Not all rings are created equal, and choosing the right one requires consideration.
Here’s what to look for:
- Material: Platinum, gold, titanium, 925 sterling, or tungsten. Pick one that suits his lifestyle and skin tone.
- Design: Sleek, bold, minimalist, or vintage, match the ring to his personality.
- Gemstones: Many men now opt for black diamonds, emeralds, diamonds, moissanites, or simple solitaires.
- Comfort Fit: Ensure the inner curve of the band is ergonomic for all-day wear.
And yes, you can engrave it with initials, dates, or personal messages to make it truly his.
Learn how to choose a wedding band that perfectly complements your engagement ring.
Affordability: How Much Should You Spend on a Men’s Engagement Ring?
The good news? Men’s engagement rings are typically more affordable than elaborate women’s solitaires, but no less meaningful.
At Nakshu Jewels, our men’s rings start from $200 and go up to $1000+, depending on:
- Metal choice (gold or sterling silver)
- Stone setting
- Custom engraving
- Brand craftsmanship
What matters more than cost is what the ring represents. Choose what resonates, not what impresses others.
Conclusion
So, do men wear engagement rings? The answer is not just yes, it’s a resounding, ring-wearing YES.
We’re stepping into a new era where love is expressed with equal flair, symbolism, and pride. At Nakshu Jewels, we’re proud to be part of this shift, offering engagement rings that reflect the beauty of modern commitment.
Celebrate his “Yes” too. Explore Nakshu Jewels’ Men’s Engagement Collection and find the perfect ring that says: I’m taken. I’m proud. And I wear it well.
FAQs
1. Are guys supposed to wear a ring when engaged?
It's not required, but many men choose to wear engagement rings as a symbol of commitment and equality.
2. Does the boyfriend get an engagement ring?
Yes, if the couple chooses. It's becoming common for both partners to exchange rings.
3. Do both partners wear engagement rings?
Yes, especially in modern relationships. It's a symbol of love and commitment, shared by two people.
4. Does a man get himself an engagement ring?
He can. Some men buy their own ring or wait for their partner to give one.
5. Does a woman give a man an engagement ring?
Yes, it's a growing trend. Many women now propose or gift rings to their partners.
6. Who buys the man's engagement ring?
Either partner can buy it, or they can choose it together. It depends on the couple.
7. What ring does a man propose with?
Traditionally, a man gives a ring to his partner, but same-sex and modern proposals may include rings for both.
8. Do guys have to wear promise rings?
No, it's a personal choice. Some do, some don't.
9. When do guys wear engagement rings?
Some wear them after getting engaged, but it's not very common in all cultures.
10. Which finger do men wear an engagement ring on?
Usually on the left ring finger, same as women.
11. Where do men hide engagement rings?
Common places include a drawer, closet, car, or with a trusted friend or family member.