DEAR MISS MANNERS: I recently received a promise ring from my boyfriend, and it has come up that we are not sure which hand I am supposed to wear it on. He has heard the right hand, so as to keep the official ring finger free until the appropriate time. I have heard it should be worn on the left, so as to hold a place for the future engagement ring. Which hand, historically, is correct?
GENTLE READER: Historically, to be "promised" was another way of describing being engaged. Romantic limbo did not exist, certainly not with a symbol saying "this finger reserved for a future engagement."
So Miss Manners supposes your question depends on what the gentleman promised to do. If he promised to marry you, it would be suitable to wear his ring on your left hand, even if it will be upgraded when he is ready to fulfill the promise. If the question is still open, you might want to keep the spot open as well.
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