This Valentine’s Day, instead of waiting for someone to put a ring on it, why not do it yourself?

Jewellery has historically been precious items gifted by important people in your lives, especially fine rings. However, with gifts, you’re constantly reminded of a memory whenever you put them on — and those memories aren’t always good ones. So why not reclaim them by getting your own jewellery?

This Valentine’s Day, instead of waiting for someone to put a ring on it, why not do it yourself? Introducing right-hand rings. We know that engagement and wedding rings are typically worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This is significant, as a vein runs from the finger to the heart, symbolising that you have each other’s heart.

The right-hand ring, on the other hand, means quite the opposite. Women wear it as a symbol of independence, especially if they’re single and want to defy society’s standard of waiting for a man to gift them a ring.

Historically, right-hand rings date back to the 1920s, when women began entering the workforce. Right-hand rings were initially named “cocktail rings”, a nod towards how these working gals would go out for a cocktail after work with the boys. Cocktail rings back in the day were also bold, colourful and ornate. The more they stood out, the better — women wanted these cocktail rings to be noticed. A modern day variation that fits this style is this HABIB Veronia Diamond Ring, an intricate piece with white and rose gold combination, a half pave, and made up of 91 diamond pieces. If you prefer something simpler that still stands out, this Mulia Jewellery 9.93 Carat Blue Topez Diamond Ring may be the one.

Shop more women’s right-hand rings here:

Right-hand rings are making a comeback in our modern era, which is not surprising. Women are more independent than ever, earning top dollar with the financial ability to buy themselves anything they want — including designer items and fine jewellery. Why should they wait for a man to gift them a diamond ring when they could buy multiple pieces themselves?

In the same vein of gender equality, it isn’t so unusual for a man to get himself a right-hand ring too. After all, people are waiting longer to get married, prefrering to focus on their careers instead. Wedding rings don’t hold the same value as they used to, and men want to wear their own versions of diamond rings too. With right-hand rings, that becomes possible. It can be something as simple as this Audrey’s 18K Gold Diamond Ring with symmetrical diamond pave, or as bold as this Amee Philips 750 (18K) Tsavorite Diamond Ring. We particularly love the rich green garnet in this ring, that’s sure to catch anyone’s eyes.

Shop more men’s cocktail rings here:

While the significance of right-hand rings may have differed from its origins, the purpose still remains the same: a symbol of independence and self-love, which we all need in today’s world. Wearing pretty gemstone rings helps celebrate that cause while looking good. Whatever your reasons, having fine jewellery in your collection is always a plus point. Shop more fine jewellery pieces on ZALORA LUXURY.