What it means
انگشتر (angoshtar) means a finger ring, any ornamental or symbolic band worn on the finger. The word is pure Persian, formed from انگشت (angosht, finger) with the suffix -ار (-ar) that turns the base noun into the name of the thing associated with it. It applies equally to simple gold bands, engraved signet rings, and gemstone pieces. The word حلقه (halqeh) is sometimes used specifically for a plain wedding band, while انگشتر is the broader and more common everyday word for any ring.
How to use it
- انگشتر طلا دستشه. (Angoshtar-e talâ dastashe.) “She’s wearing a gold ring on her hand.”
- انگشترم کجا گذاشتم؟ (Angoshtaram kojâ gozâshtam?) “Where did I put my ring?”
- برای نامزدیمون انگشتر خریدیم. (Barây-e nâmzadimun angoshtar kharidim.) “We bought rings for our engagement.”
- این انگشتر فیروزه داره. (In angoshtar firuzeh dâreh.) “This ring has turquoise in it.”
Cultural note
Rings carry significant ceremonial weight in Iranian culture. During engagement ceremonies (نامزدی, nâmzadi), the couple exchange انگشتر in front of family, and these rings are worn on the right hand until marriage, after which they may be moved to the left. Turquoise (فیروزه, firuze), mined in northeastern Iran near Nishapur for over two thousand years, is a traditional gemstone for انگشتر and is believed by many Iranians to bring good fortune and ward off the evil eye. Signet rings engraved with a name or phrase in Persian script remain a popular gift for young men.