The answer: It should be placed on the palm side of the hand, for this is what has been reported from the Prophet ﷺ (1), and because it affords better protection for the stone. However, when working, one may turn it around. It is also permissible to place it on the outer side of the hand, as this has been narrated from Ibn Abbas—may Allah be pleased with him—as part of his practice (2). The matter is flexible.

Fifth: Should the stone be of the same material as the ring, or of another material?

The answer: The stone may be of the same material as the ring or of another material. However, it is preferable that it be proportionate to the ring, and making it excessively large is discouraged, for this may fall under the heading of ostentation. Moreover, it may involve imitation of women, since they customarily make the stone large.

Sixth: What is the ruling on engraving the Name of Allah on a ring?

The answer: This should not be done; at the very least, it is disliked—especially since they write the Name of Allah Most High by itself. The same applies to what is found on women’s necklaces. All of this is among the innovated practices that lead to the Name of Allah Most High being treated disrespectfully. Furthermore, if one wears it on the left hand, it comes into contact with filth while cleansing oneself after relieving oneself. This is a very serious matter.

If someone were to say: The Prophet’s ﷺ ring may be cited as an objection, for its inscription was: “Muhammad, Messenger of Allah.” How should this objection be answered?

The answer is that this inscription served a need of the Prophet ﷺ, since it was his name and title. It was for this reason that he acquired the ring: to write to kings and inform them that he was the Messenger of Allah.