Promise Rings
Promise Rings
The concept of promise rings dates back to Roman times. Romans were required to wait a certain amount of time before marrying, and they gave rings as a sign of commitment during that period.
The promise ring as a pre-engagement ring is a more modern concept. As courtships have become longer, people have come to give promise rings as a kind of intermediate assurance.
Between promise rings, purity rings, engagement rings, pre-engagement rings and more, the confusion surrounding the meaning of a promise ring is totally understandable.
What are promise rings?
A promise ring is a ring given from one person to another in a romantic relationship to indicate their faithfulness and commitment, often (but not always) before an engagement. In its most essential form, giving a promise ring symbolizes a couple's devotion to the relationship.
Some people have confused the terminology. When you talk about abstinence, and a parent gives a ring to a child or to oneself, it is called a purity ring. Promise rings, on the other hand, are generally given as a symbol of commitment within the boundaries of a romantic relationship.
What do promise rings mean?
As the name suggests, promise rings represent a promise made between two people, but the specific personal meaning can differ from one couple to another.
A promise ring, sometimes known as a pre-engagement ring, is given in a relationship to indicate commitment. While for many young couples a promise ring signifies a vow of an engagement ring to come, others may simply wear it to show their loyalty and devotion to their partner.
The meaning of a promise ring can be defined differently by each couple, just as each relationship, the band and its purpose can be completely unique to what you choose.
The origins of silver and gold promise rings date back to the 16th century, but they did not take on this name until the 1970s. However, the meaning of the promise ring has stood the test of time, and it signifies love in one form or another.
What do promise rings look like?
Promise rings are usually smaller and more subtle than engagement rings, and they may or may not be worn on the traditional wedding band finger. Diamonds are popular, but in smaller sizes or clusters, or with gemstones; usually, the focus is not on the diamond, but on the overall design.
The metals are also usually different. While 18k and 14k gold and platinum lead the way for engagement rings and wedding bands, 10k gold or sterling silver (925) are more affordable and popular options for promise rings.
Where do you wear promise rings?
If an engagement ring appears in the future, the promise ring is often moved to the opposite hand. A ring is an outward symbol for people who are moving in together and have no immediate plans for marriage, but are clearly in a committed relationship.
There is no rule regarding this point since each couple has the freedom to wear it wherever they want; however, couples commonly wear the promise ring on the ring finger of the left hand.
Now, if over time the couple finally decides to get engaged, the engagement ring takes its place and the promise ring moves to the right hand. In turn, there are those who prefer not to wear the promise ring on the ring finger of the left hand to avoid confusing it with an engagement ring.
When to give promise rings?
When it comes to the exact moment to give a promise ring, it depends entirely on the people involved. This aspect is strongly inspired by the meaning that has been given to the promise ring.
They are often given between young couples as a placeholder for a future engagement ring. This often happens when the couple thinks they are too young to get engaged, but wants to show how serious their bond is.
Other times one may choose to give one when those involved are separated by distance, as a reminder to carry their love wherever they go.
Or if you don't intend to get married, but have a serious long-term relationship, promise rings are a perfect way to celebrate your love. At the end of the day, the right time to give a promise ring depends entirely on each person.
Where can I buy promise rings?
We remind you that you can get the best promise rings, made in sterling silver (925), with the possibility of choosing among hundreds of super cute designs at our jewelry store. You just have to click here.
Also read: 5 REASONS TO BUY SILVER RINGS FOR WOMEN
