A promise rings is more than a piece of ornamental jewelry: It is a symbol of love and commitment to a couple’s relationship.
Its origins date back to the 16th century, though it only got its name during the 1970s. Many couples exchange them as tokens of fidelity. They are an affordable romantic gift, an expression of adoration. A promise ring does not always need to signify an intention to marry. But it can eventually lead to an engagement.
Giving a promise ring is a significant gesture. If you are thinking about buying one, here are a few things you should know.
What is the meaning of a promise ring?
At its broadest, a promise ring is an upgrade from dating. It symbolizes committing to an exclusive relationship and shows the outside world that you are serious about your partner.
Yet a promise ring can also mean something different to each couple. If you have financial troubles, you might opt for a promise ring while saving up for a pricier engagement ring. Sometimes, it can be a placeholder for an engagement and marriage without jumpstarting the wedding process. If you are in a long-distance relationship, it can serve as a token of love. If you live together or do not intend to marry, it can be a pledge of love to each other.
Think about your intentions first before buying a promise ring. It will be the most important factor in your decision.
How long should you be in a relationship before you give a promise ring?
Timing is everything. Give it too early in a relationship and you might alarm your partner; if you wait for too long, then you might as well opt for an engagement ring if you plan to get married. Ideally, you should wait from anywhere between six months to one year before considering giving a promise ring. If you know you want to marry them, but you aren’t ready to be engaged yet, then that’s a good time to give a promise ring. At the end of the day, it boils down to the couple’s intentions.
How do you give a promise ring?
Special occasions are a good time to give a promise ring. These can be birthdays, dating anniversaries or holidays, such as Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
It is always a good idea to talk with your partner about getting a promise ring. What does it mean about your relationship and signify for your future? This might take away the element of surprise but it prevents your significant other from getting confused—else, they might think you are asking them to marry you!
Unlike a marriage proposal, you don’t have to plan anything elaborate or over-the-top when giving a promise ring. Keep it simple and non-extravagant. However, you can always find romantic ways to make it special, such as a romantic dinner or even a treasure hunt. Done right, any time can be a good time to exchange promise rings.
How much does it cost?
A promise ring will always cost less than an engagement ring. You should expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $2,000 on it, depending on your preferences. It isn’t about the price tag or the gemstone; it’s the loyalty and love behind the gesture that counts most.
On which finger do you wear a promise ring?
The answer: it’s entirely subjective! Some choose the ring finger on the right hand or the middle finger on the left hand. If you use your hands a lot at work, you might even opt to wear it on a chain during these times. You can wear the ring on any finger you like. It entirely depends on what is most comfortable for you.
How to choose a promise ring?
As with an engagement ring, there are certain things you should consider when choosing a promise ring. Although you can expect to spend less than you would on an engagement ring, prepare a budget beforehand.
Decide on a style. Pick the metal type based on what your partner usually wears. If their tastes are more contemporary, think about cooler metals such as silver, white gold or platinum. If they prefer a more vintage fashion style, warmer metals such as yellow or rose gold go well. You can also choose your partner’s birthstone if you plan to incorporate a gemstone.
For the design, think about its symbolic meaning. You can make it personal by getting a lovely engraving based on a favorite quote that speaks volumes about your love. A heart-shaped promise ring design is a classic while an eternity band is the latest trend.
Choose the right size by deciding on which finger your partner will wear the ring. This is important especially if you want to replace it with an engagement ring and the promise ring will be worn on another finger.
Whatever you decide, make it as meaningful as you can. More importantly, avoid making it look like an engagement ring. You don’t want to create confusion!
What’s the difference between a promise ring and an engagement ring?
A promise ring signifies a commitment to the relationship; an engagement ring is a commitment to marriage. A promise ring can lead to an engagement ring but this is no guarantee. Clearly, the investment made in an engagement ring may cost a bit more.
What is a good age to give a promise ring?
It depends. While it’s more common for individuals under 20 years to exchange them, even people 20 years or older might do so. Irrespective of age, what you need to keep foremost in mind is that both the giver and the recipient should be comfortable with the idea of a promise ring. If your partner isn’t into it as you are, discuss it. They may give a better solution.
At the end of the day, if a promise ring is what you and your partner like, then go for it.
What happens if you break up?
Though a promise ring is a pledge to a lifelong serious relationship, life happens and things change. In such an event, the question about what happens to the ring depends on the nature of the breakup. Sometimes, it is returned. Sometimes, it isn’t. You choose!
What do promise rings look like?
Aim for simplicity. The popular designs are heart-shaped rings, infinity symbols, and engraved rings. So are eternity bands and Claddagh rings. You can get them made in any metal and use any gemstone you like.
If your budget is tight, you can consider a lovely synthetic stone for the gemstone—they have all the beauty of a naturally occurring gem and have a significantly lower price. For the metal, you can consider sterling silver. That said, the GemstoneGuru team are avid fans of natural stones – they are truly one of a kind!
At the end of the day, the opportunities are endless. Make sure it suits your partner’s lifestyle choices—promise rings are more vulnerable to damage. But with the proper care, they can last quite a long time.
Where to buy Promise Rings
Today, there are many places to buy a promise ring. You can start by checking your local jewelry store or right here on GemstoneGuru. This makes it easy to discuss your options with the jeweler or buying online.
At the end of the day, it boils down to your intentions for the relationship. A promise ring is a vow of love. It is a sign of hope that you and your partner wish to honor a future together. Be clear in your purpose. If you can make it a unique design that is personal and speaks to your significant other’s heart, you will accomplish far more than you ever could with the most expensive ring money can buy. Good luck!