For centuries, the tradition of engagement has been closely associated with men proposing marriage using an engagement ring. The image is familiar and timeless: a man kneels on one knee—often in a romantic or meaningful setting—holding out a ring as he asks the iconic question, “Will you marry me?”
When the answer is “yes,” the ring is placed on the left-hand ring finger of his partner, symbolizing love, commitment, and the official beginning of their engagement. This custom has long shaped how society views engagement rings and who wears them.
But as modern relationships continue to evolve, many couples are beginning to ask a new question: Do men wear engagement rings? Can the tradition be reversed—or even shared? Before exploring the growing trend of men’s engagement rings, it’s helpful to first understand the history and meaning behind engagement rings themselves.
History of Engagement Rings
The history of engagement rings can be traced back thousands of years. Some historians believe that both ancient Egyptians and Greeks exchanged symbolic rings as a sign of commitment. However, it was the ancient Egyptians who are widely recognized as the first civilization to use a wedding band to represent the eternal union between two people, often choosing circular designs to symbolize infinity.
The earliest documented engagement ring dates to 1477, when Mary of Burgundy received a diamond ring from Archduke Maximilian of Austria. This historic proposal is often considered the origin of the modern engagement ring tradition, especially in European aristocratic culture.
Diamonds, however, did not become a widespread symbol of engagement until much later. It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that diamonds were actively marketed as symbols of wealth, romance, and status. As women’s fashion evolved, diamonds were increasingly incorporated into rings, making diamond engagement rings one of the most popular styles of the time. Their popularity peaked during the Victorian era, when ornate and sentimental jewelry designs were highly fashionable.
During the early to mid-20th century, diamond engagement ring sales declined significantly. Global events such as World War I and the Great Depression greatly impacted consumer spending, leading many couples to choose simpler or alternative engagement ring styles. Despite this decline, engagement rings continued to symbolize love, commitment, and the promise of marriage—values that remain central today.
Engagement Rings in the Twenty-First Century
In the 15th century, engagement rings carried a very different meaning than they do today. Rather than symbolizing mutual love, early engagement rings were often associated with notions of ownership or contractual obligation. In contrast, modern engagement rings represent commitment, partnership, and emotional equality.
As social norms continue to evolve, so do engagement traditions. It is becoming increasingly common for women to propose to men, as well as for same-sex couples to exchange engagement rings and celebrate their commitment in ways that feel authentic to them.
Historical traditions also reflect this shift. In Ireland, Bachelor’s Day has long allowed women to propose, and on February 29th during leap years, women traditionally proposed to men—a custom that once held legal recognition in both England and Scotland. While these traditions may seem unusual today, they highlight the long-standing challenge to conventional engagement roles.
In the 21st century, anyone—regardless of gender—can propose marriage. Still, many couples continue to follow the tradition of waiting for the man to ask the question. This raises an increasingly common question in modern relationships: when a man is proposed to, should he wear an engagement ring? As men’s engagement rings gain popularity, this once-uncommon practice is quickly becoming a meaningful symbol of commitment and equality.
Can a Man Wear an Engagement Ring?
Absolutely. Men can wear engagement rings, and more are choosing to do so than ever before. While engagement rings were traditionally associated with women, modern relationships have redefined what engagement symbolizes—love, commitment, and equality. There is nothing unusual or embarrassing about a man wearing an engagement ring; it is simply a visible expression of devotion to one’s partner.
As social norms continue to evolve, it has become increasingly common for women to propose to men, as well as for same-sex male couples to exchange engagement rings. At the same time, many men are also purchasing engagement rings when proposing to their partners. As a result, men’s engagement rings are no longer a niche concept but a growing trend in modern jewelry.
What Is a Male Engagement Ring?
A male engagement ring carries the same emotional significance as any engagement ring—it symbolizes commitment and the intention to marry. The difference lies mainly in design and style, which are tailored to individual preferences rather than strict rules.
Men’s engagement rings often feature:
- Band-style designs
- Minimalist or masculine aesthetics
- Diamonds or alternative gemstones
- Wider bands or subtle detailing
While diamonds remain a popular choice, many men opt for other gemstones or simple metal bands. Ultimately, a men’s engagement ring can be bold, understated, traditional, or unconventional—it all depends on personal taste. Some men prefer a strong, masculine look, while others are drawn to more refined or even traditionally “feminine” designs. There are no limitations.
Celebrities and Men’s Engagement Rings
Public figures have also helped normalize the idea of men wearing engagement rings. Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber are among the celebrities who have publicly worn engagement rings, influencing a broader acceptance of the trend. Their visibility has encouraged more men to embrace engagement rings as a meaningful symbol of love and commitment.
Should Both Partners Wear Engagement Rings?
Whether both partners wear engagement rings is entirely a personal decision. As engagement traditions shift away from rigid gender roles, many couples choose to wear matching or complementary rings—similar to promise rings.
Today, an engagement ring often simply means “I’m committed.” For this reason, there is no reason why both the bride-to-be and groom-to-be—or either partner—shouldn’t wear one. In countries such as South Africa, it has long been customary for both partners to wear engagement rings. Only recently have other regions begun to adopt this more inclusive tradition.
What Hand Does a Man Wear an Engagement Ring On?
There is no universal rule for which hand a man should wear an engagement ring on. Cultural and regional traditions play the biggest role.
- In countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, France, Italy, and many Western and Asian nations, engagement rings are traditionally worn on the left hand.
- In Austria, Denmark, Norway, Spain, Russia, Poland, and several European and South American countries, engagement and wedding rings are commonly worn on the right hand.
Ultimately, men can wear their engagement ring on any finger or hand that feels most comfortable and meaningful to them.
Conclusion
While men’s engagement rings may not yet be universal, they are rapidly gaining popularity worldwide. Modern men can now confidently embrace this tradition without hesitation, choosing a ring that reflects their personal style and the depth of their commitment. Whether simple or elaborate, traditional or unconventional, a male engagement ring is a powerful symbol of love, equality, and modern partnership.
