Promise Rings: Their Meaning & When to Give Them

A promise ring is a sign of commitment, and its meaning is why they are so popular to give to loved ones. These rings signify a bond between two people. With ties as far back as 1576, these classic bands are a thoughtful gesture to the one you love. But what exactly do they mean, and who can wear them? Our ultimate guide to promise rings will answer all your questions.

The Meaning Behind Promise Rings

A promise ring, sometimes known as a pre-engagement ring, is given in a relationship to signify commitment. Whilst for many young couples a promise ring means a vow of an engagement ring to come, others may simply use it to show their loyalty and devotion to their partner. The meaning of a promise ring can be defined differently by each couple, just like each relationship, the band and its purpose can be completely unique to what you choose.

The origins of silver and gold promise rings can be dated right back to the 16th century, but they did not take on this name until the 1970s. However, the promise ring's meaning has withstood the test of time, signifying love in one form or another.

Giving and Receiving Promise Rings

Anyone can give a promise ring to their loved one. Traditionally, in heterosexual relationships, the man would give the band to the woman as a token of his adoration and loyalty. However, with a market of men's promise rings, there really is a thoughtful option for everyone. Whatever your relationship looks like, if you feel like giving this romantic gift you can. Just as anyone can give, anyone can receive these rings too. The meaning of promise rings is so broad that it allows for everyone to be a giver and a receiver.

Some people even choose to give this type of ring outside of a romantic partnership, and instead use them to showcase a withstanding and important friendship. When given in this sense, they are more commonly known as friendship rings. However, as the meaning of a promise ring is whatever you make it, you may wish to refer to it by its traditional name.

The Perfect Moment to Give a Promise Ring

When it comes to the timing of a promise ring, it depends completely on the people involved. This aspect is heavily inspired by the promise ring meaning you have decided on. Sentimental rings 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 be engaged but want to display how serious their bond is. Other times you may choose to give one could include when you are separated by distance, as a reminder to carry with you of your love wherever you go. If you're after a memento for a long distance friend, a friendship bracelet is an excellent alternative. Or if you don't intend to marry, but are in a serious long term relationship, promise rings are a perfect way to celebrate your love.

At the end of the day, like the meaning of promise rings, the timing of giving one is entirely down to you. If you think now is the right time to treat your partner to this special piece of sterling silver or gold jewelry, then it certainly is!

What Finger Does a Promise Ring Go On?

How to wear your new promise ring is entirely subjective. The two most popular choices are your middle finger on your left hand, close to your ring fingers, or your ring finger on your right hand. But it doesn't have a specific finger like an engagement ring, so you really can wear it however you like!

If you use your hands a lot for work, you may choose not to wear it at these times. If this is the case, putting your ring on a chain so you can still keep your meaningful promise ring with you is a beautiful and versatile choice to keep it safe and close.

Promise Rings vs Eternity Rings vs Engagement Rings

The meanings of promise rings and eternity rings often get mixed up, and whilst they are similar they are not the same thing. Whilst promise rings are traditionally given pre-engagement, eternity rings are given after marriage, often for a ten year anniversary. Eternity rings mean a vow to eternal love, similar to that of infinity rings. Whilst the meaning of promise rings and eternity rings is similar, the main difference is when they are given and who they are given by.

Engagement rings on the other hand are a sign that a couple is actively planning to marry, and their nuptials are imminent. Both promise rings and engagement rings can boast sparkling diamonds to symbolize the everlasting nature of a couple's love. The romantic pieces can be worn on the same finger as stacking rings, often with a minimalist ring of a wedding band in between.

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