While a thumb ring has numerous meanings, it's also notably connected to both spiritual beliefs as well as mythology. According to Something Borrowed, one old superstition believed that wearing a thumb ring would act as protection from the influence of evil spirits. This belief was not uncommon, as the outlet noted that the idea that a thumb ring could drive away illness, misfortune, or even magic has been present throughout history. There are even special designs and symbols on rings that support this superstition, and are meant to protect the wearer from sinister intentions. This idea has continued into modern times.
Another old custom stated that wearing a thumb ring if you were a widow was a way to honor and remember your late husband. This belief followed the idea that the thumb ring represented devotion and eternal love.
On the other hand, the thumb ring is also said to symbolize individualism, and through that representation, it has been tied to two figures in Greek mythology. The first is Poseidon, the water god, and the second is the heroic figure Heracles, who battled monsters of the underworld. Both gods were considered renowned and independent figures, though each was considered unique in his own way. These attributes tied these two gods to thumb symbolism, and some people believed that wearing a thumb ring would provide the wearer with some of these mythological figures' distinctive characteristics.
