If there’s one thing that always sparks conversation, it’s how to wear the engagement and wedding ring. The debate is which comes first? You’ll hear all kinds of explanations, each backed by a bit of tradition, religion, or simple personal choice. The truth? There isn’t one “correct” answer — but rather, different schools of thought.
If you’re still learning about the meaning behind these beautiful symbols, you can also read our post on Everything You Need to Know About Engagement Rings.
First, Let’s Talk About What’s Really “Engagement” in Ghana.
In our part of the world, what most people call “engagement” is actually the traditional marriage — the real, recognized union between two families. Our men usually don’t propose with a ring; instead, they take drinks to a woman’s family, declare their intentions, receive a list, and later return with loved ones to complete the traditional rites. That’s the actual marriage, not just a pre-wedding ceremony.
So when it comes to rings, what many call the engagement ring is really a traditional marriage ring, while the ring exchanged during the church or ordinance wedding becomes your wedding ring. If you’re curious about the cost of rings locally, check out our guide on Wedding Ring Prices in Ghana.
What Is the Right Engagement Ring Finger to Wear On?
When it comes to engagements, one question almost every bride-to-be asks is: “Which finger should I wear my engagement ring on?” the engagement ring finger is the fourth finger on the left hand. This belief comes from an old Roman idea that a “vein of love” runs directly from that finger to the heart. Romantic, right?
Option A or Option B? The Two Main Schools of Thought on How to Wear the Engagement and Wedding Ring.
In Ghana, you’ll often see brides wearing their rings like Option A or Option B, and both make sense — depending on your belief or what your ceremony looked like.
Option A:
You remove your traditional marriage ring and wear your church wedding ring first, then later stack your traditional ring on top when you get back home. Those who prefer A believe the wedding band should be worn closest to the heart — it’s the ring that symbolizes your permanent union before God and the church. The engagement (or traditional) ring then sits above it.
Option B:
You decide to wear both rings to church, and your spouse places the wedding ring on your finger during the ceremony.
Those who go for B say the engagement ring comes first, since the family and God approved the marriage before the public or church celebration. So, symbolically, engagement first — then wedding.
If you’re still shopping for your perfect rings, our post on Prices of Wedding Rings in Ghana will help you find trusted local vendors.
What People Are Saying
When you listen to Ghanaian brides and grooms, you’ll hear different — yet equally valid — reasons for each choice:
- Some believe A is right because the wedding band represents eternity and should never be removed.
- Others choose B because the engagement always comes first, so it naturally sits closer to the heart.
- A few say they wear whichever fits best — sometimes using the tighter ring to “block” the loose one from falling off (practical love).
- Some couples skip the debate entirely and use just one ring — or even a bracelet or chain — to symbolize their bond.
- And some simply say, “Wear it any way that looks nice to you. Just wear your ring and be going!” Want to see how real couples wear theirs? Browse our feature on Wedding Rings Pictures: Real Couples, Real Love.
Whether you go with A, B, or just one beautiful ring, what truly matters is the symbolic meaning behind it. The rings are a reminder of love, faith, and commitment — not a test of who followed which rule.
PHOTO CREDITS: JOGOJEWEL
