What is the symbolism of thumb rings?

The meaning, or lack thereof, of thumb rings varies according to culture, For some men, a thumb ring is simply a statement of wealth or influence, whereas in some subcultures, a thumb ring indicates the wearer is gay.

Thumb rings are fairly common around the world and typically worn to indicate the positive status of the wearer. Some people, men and women alike, use thumb rings to indicate they are gay. They also wear the ring on the right thumb to indicate they are single and available or on the left thumb to indicate they are in a relationship. Some people simply wear rings on their thumbs because that is the finger on which the ring is most comfortable.