Finger Folklore
There are tons of stories related to fingers & finger sizes stemming far back in history. Here are a few potential myths, but you be the judge.
Pinky Swear (AKA Pinky Promise)
The idea that if you make a promise that you truly mean to keep, you’re willing to "Pinky Swear" on it. This is when two individuals take there pinky’s and entwine them to signify a promise has been made.Crossing Fingers (Promise)
Another concept popular with youth is crossing fingers while making a promise that you do not intend to keep. Typically you make a promise, then cross your index & middle finger behind your back or hidden so that the individual to whom you are making the promise to is not aware.Crossing Fingers (Hope)
While some people cross fingers to lie, some use it as a source of hope. For example if you are going to go on a game show, a friend may say "I’ll be crossing my fingers for ya". What this friend means is that he hopes you win or succeed.Signet Rings
- These rings had significant meaning and typically would be crafted with a design unique to the wearer. These rings typically meant they had nobility or associated to a specific ruling class. Coats of arms, initials, profiles, or initials and was used to verify identity. typically the rings were used for wax or ink impressions. Signet rings are referenced in the bible and are still used today.The Wedding Ring
Wedding rings are typically worn on the 4th finger of the left hand and has a much longer history than the engagement ring which dates back to only to 12th century as originated from Pope Innocent III who wanted a longer period of betrothal and so utilized the engagement ring as a means of signifying the beginning of this period. It was the Ancient Hebrews who wore them and the tradition carried on. Wedding Rings have been an official part of Christian weddings since the 7th century.Finger Symbolism
There is folklore and interest in hand and finger symbolism. During In Medieval times, people believed that kings had special powers to heal by touch but it was also believed that a person could gain healing powers if he cut off the hand of an executed criminal while the body hung in the gallows.
Finger Palmistry
It has been believed that each finger on a person's hand can reveal personality traits of the wearer.In palmistry, there is a meaning for each finger is associated to a greek god and described by their fabled traits. Listed below are the are common metaphysical properties along with the associated greek god, and the complimentary gemstones associated to each finger:
- The Thumb--The thumb represents self-assertion and willpower. It is the only finger not named after a Greek god. Choose thumb rings made with carnelian, garnet or ruby gemstones.
- The Index Finger--This finger is named for Jupiter to symbolize self-confidence, leadership, ambition, leadership and spirituality. Select a ring with lapis lazuli, amethyst or blue topaz stones.
- The Middle Finger--The middle finger, Saturn, stands for balance, justice, the law, responsibility and soul-searching. Soothing stones such as rose quartz, coral and aquamarine are appropriate for rings.
- The Ring Finger--The ring finger represents Apollo and symbolizes relationships, creativity and the love of beauty. Complimentary gemstones include moonstone, jade, amethyst, sapphire and turquoise.
- The Little Finger--Mercury rules the little finger, which stands for intelligence, communication, persuasion and intuition. Pick rings with stones such as moonstone, amber or citrine.
- Large hands and thick fingers--Strong character
- Slender hands and long fingers--Intelligent and artistic
- Small hands and short fingers--Weak and foolish
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