What is a Promise Ring? Meaning, History and How to Wear

A lot of people have heard of a promise ring, but are not sure what is a promise ring.

A promise ring is given and worn as an outward symbol of commitment and fidelity to another person.

Promise rings can also have additional, more specific meanings that are particular to each couple’s particular relationship.

Read our explanation of promise rings, which includes traditions, meanings, and information on everything from where to wear them to their price.

What is a Promise Ring?

What does a promise ring mean? A promise ring is a ring given from one person to another in a romantic relationship to signify their fidelity and commitment, often (but not always) preceding an engagement.

Giving a promise ring and receiving one both serve as symbols of a partner’s commitment to the union at their most basic level.

Read More: What is An Anniversary Ring?

A History of Promise Rings

According to Brinkman, the custom of wearing a ring to signify loyalty and fidelity dates back to ancient times, and the idea of giving a ring as a declaration of love and affection dates back several hundred years.

In the second century BC, there is proof that Roman brides wore engagement rings. Posy rings, which have engravings of love poems, date back to 16th-century England, while acrostic rings, which use gemstones to form words, were popular during the Georgian and Victorian eras.

For example, a ruby, emerald, garnet, amethyst, ruby and diamond spells “regard” and a diamond, emerald, amethyst, ruby, sapphire and topaz spells “dearest”.

Modern promise rings have only resurfaced as a mainstream trend within the last decade or so, largely thanks to the publicity surrounding celebrity promise ring.

Here are some popular questions on promise rings, keep reading!

What Does a Promise Ring Look Like?

You may want to know what does a promise ring look like. There is no answer, to put it simply.

Promise rings can be found in a variety of designs, just like engagement rings. The ring should be made to fit the wearer’s personal preferences without being too extravagant to be worn every day.

Here are some popular trends in promise ring styles:

• diamond rings with a smaller diamond. Although large solitaires have long been associated with engagements, promise rings often contain stones that are 0.25 carats or smaller.
• Simple bands. A band-style promise ring is a more understated choice, whether it has gemstones set in it, initials engraved on it, or is made entirely of precious metal.
• Birthstone rings. Giving the recipient his or her birthstone is the best choice for longevity because the ring can later be worn in conjunction with an engagement ring.
• Cluster rings. Without attempting to imitate an engagement ring, a cluster of stones sparkles like one.

Who Are Promise Rings For?

Giving a promise ring is an ancient custom that is becoming more and more common today. It is believed to have started during betrothals.

For couples who want to move forward but aren’t yet engaged, the most common type of promise ring is a ring. It’s the ideal way to signify a dedication to one another.

Promise rings can also serve as a reminder of enduring relationships within families or among friends.

Related Reading: Do Men Wear Promise Rings?

How Do You Give a Promise Ring?

Here are some pointers for giving your love a promise ring.

1. In a romantic setting, you can surprise your partner by giving them this gift. It is best to give a promise ring when you are by yourself and there are no witnesses present.
2. Take your significant other for a stroll through the forest or spend a chilly evening by the fire. This private setting will be the ideal complement to the memorable ring proposal.
3. Take the day off work and go on a date with your partner to a place or activity they’ve always wanted to check out.
4. Before proposing and giving the promise ring, make arrangements for a special weekend getaway and create a romantic atmosphere with wine, flowers, and music.
5. To make it even more meaningful, schedule this moment to fall on your anniversary or their birthday. Valentine’s Day is another ideal time to propose to your soul mate by giving each other promise rings.

If you are looking for more tips on giving promise rings, here are some posts you might like:

• When to Give a Promise Ring?
• What to Say When Giving a Promise Ring?

What is the Promise Ring Finger?

The standard or most popular finger for a promise ring is the ring finger, which is worn on the right hand prior to marriage and the left finger afterward.

You should feel free to use a promise ring however you please since it is your own personal item.

There is no set rule as to which finger you must wear your promise ring; it is entirely up to personal preference.

Read our guide on How to Wear a Promise Ring for more tips.

Is a Promise Ring the Same as An Engagement Ring?

Promise ring vs engagement ring is a popular topic nowadays.

A promise ring is not the same as an engagement ring. A commitment ring indicating your impending nuptials is an engagement ring. Whether you are presenting a promise ring to a significant other, a friend, or a member of your family, your intentions will depend on who you are giving it to.

The promise ring serves as a pre-engagement ring when you give it to your significant other, signifying your commitment to one another as a couple.

For friendships and family, the promise ring symbolizes memories, bonds, love, and the strength of family ties. A promise ring will always serve as a concrete reminder of your vows and serve to remind you of your commitment.

It’s also worth noting that a promise ring is not the same as a purity ring, which symbolizes an individual’s commitment to celibacy before marriage. Promise rings are only intended to serve as a symbol of commitment to a romantic relationship or a business partnership.

How Much Should You Spend on a Promise Ring?

Finally, let’s see how much a promise ring is.

As mentioned, a promise ring shouldn’t upstage a future engagement ring. A promise ring should be thoughtfully chosen and made of high-quality materials, though, as it is a special and significant piece of jewelry.

When deciding which promise ring to buy, prioritize quality over quantity. A promise ring should represent your beliefs, preferences, and relationship, as well as the individual style of the person wearing it.

Although it shouldn’t break the bank, a promise ring should be priceless enough to cherish for a lifetime.

Final Thoughts: What is a Promise Ring

So what is a promise ring?

Promise rings can mean whatever you want them to mean. Depending on what you’re promising, it might be love and devotion or a commitment to change for the better.

A promise ring represents your dedication to your significant other and your intention to eventually propose marriage.

FAQs about What is a Promise Ring