A promise ring is a symbol of love that can be worn on any finger to represent the commitment of a couple. Learn more about the symbolism, history and gift of a promise ring.
A heart-shaped promise ring means you’re giving her your whole heart. This 10K rose gold ring features a 0.01 carat (ct) diamond.
The historical origins of promise rings.
In the late Middle Ages (13th to 16th centuries), men would give love rings to their loved ones as a symbol of love. The name of the love ring comes from the French word poésie , which means poetry. Love rings were often engraved with romantic words, such as “Till death do us part” or “Love conquers all.” The choice of the appropriate inscription reflected the literary talent or accomplishment of the giver.
This 15th-century love ring is inscribed with “oue tout mon coeur” (French for “with all my heart”) and features sapphires and garnets set side by side, making it a classic toi et moi (me and you) ring. Courtesy: Victoria and Albert Museum, London.
More elaborate promise rings : acrostic rings were popular during the Georgian (1714-1837) and Victorian (1837-1901) eras. These rings were set with gemstones, and the initials of each gemstone spelled out a secret message. For example, a ring with lapis lazuli, opal, verdelite tourmaline and emerald spelled out the word “love”.
This Victorian acrostic ring features Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, Ruby and Diamond. The initials of the gems spell out REGARD.
The symbolic meaning of a promise ring.
In the Middle Ages, promise rings were a symbol of love, and they still are today. The meaning of a promise ring in a relationship is different for each couple. But generally speaking, when a promise ring is given or exchanged, it signals a commitment to a dedicated relationship. A promise ring is not an engagement ring, but it can be a promise before a couple is about to get married , or as a reminder when they are separated by geographical distance. A promise ring is an outward declaration that a relationship is serious, not just a passing infatuation. For couples who have no intention of getting married but have decided to stay together, a promise ring can be a solemn promise of love.
A Lafonn signature Lassaire sterling silver eternity ring with simulated diamond crown, plated in platinum.
Show your partner that she is the queen of your heart with a crown ring. This ring is made of 14K gold and features 0.16 carats of diamonds.
Show your partner that she is the queen of your heart with a crown ring. This 14K yellow gold ring features 0.04 carats of diamonds.
Are promise rings and engagement rings the same?
A promise ring may be synonymous with an engagement ring, but the meanings they convey are very different. A promise ring is a commitment to being serious about a relationship and a symbol of hope for the future. It does not, however, guarantee a marriage commitment like an engagement ring. Likewise, a promise ring should not be confused with a purity ring, which is purchased by oneself or given by parents to encourage abstinence until marriage.
Love in full bloom. This diamond ring features 0.22 carats of diamonds in the shape of a flower.
On which finger should a promise ring be worn?
Promise rings can be worn on any finger. Common choices are the ring or middle finger on the left hand or the middle or ring finger on the right hand. Some people also wear promise rings on a necklace or around their neck. Couples often switch promise rings from the left hand to the right hand after marriage.
Nothing symbolizes love like a promise ring. This 14K rose gold ring features 0.006 carats of diamonds.
How to give a promise ring as a gift?
In the past, promise rings were given by men to women, but now some men also wear promise rings given by their girlfriends, and many modern couples also exchange promise rings. In many Asian countries, couples will choose a promise ring together and wear it on their ring finger to show their commitment to their intimate relationship.
Show her that she is your best gift with a bow ring. This 10K white and rose gold ring features three small diamonds.
Promise rings are often given on special occasions, such as birthdays, holidays or anniversaries, but can be given for any occasion. It’s important to tell your significant other before giving a promise ring, otherwise it could be mistaken for an engagement ring and ruin the special moment.
This white gold diamond ring can be used as a promise ring for a man or a woman, or it can double as a wedding ring.
It’s a good idea to discuss the symbolism of a promise ring with your loved one. In addition to being a declaration of love, promise rings often hold special meaning to each couple. When giving or exchanging promise rings, couples often discuss what the relationship means to them currently, and what kind of future commitment the ring represents.
What types of engagement rings are available?
This ring from Tiffany & Co. features 0.13 carats of diamonds, creating a symbol of eternity.
Promise rings are simple and elegant, because most people don’t want their promise rings to be mistaken for engagement rings. But this doesn’t negate the importance of promise rings. Rings with heart-shaped patterns, love knots, eternity symbols, and rings engraved with names and fingerprints, as well as Roman numerals for anniversary dates, are all very popular. Claddagh rings, fede rings , eternity rings, and simple diamond jewelry are also popular choices. Couples who plan to get married in the future can buy simple promise rings that can double as wedding rings , or buy stackable promise rings that can be added to wedding rings.
This stackable rose gold and diamond pavé ring features a 0.16 ct oval center diamond.
Promise rings can be made of any metal and set with any gemstone. Rose gold is becoming more popular, but white gold and yellow gold remain classics. For those on a budget, sterling silver can be a good choice, especially since it symbolizes sincerity and purity. When choosing a gemstone, consider your birthstone to add extra meaning and a pop of color to the ring.
This Sterling silver ring features a 0.13 ct sapphire. Silver and sapphires are symbols of purity and nobility.
A promise ring is both a pledge of love and a symbol of hope. It honors a relationship by making it public, and it also symbolizes a couple’s vision for a better future together. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to express your love and devotion, consider giving or exchanging promise rings to show your partner how special they are to you.
