Promise Rings: A Buying Guide
If you're not quite ready for an engagement ring, but still want to show your commitment and devotion to your partner, a promise ring is the perfect meaning way to express your love. These romantic symbols of devotion have been exchanged by couples for generations and continue to be a popular choice today.
A promise ring is a symbol of a promise made between two people. This promise can represent anything from staying faithful in a long-distance relationship to remaining pure until marriage. Some people even use promise rings as a way to promise to love and cherish each other forever without a formal engagement or marriage.
Whether you're considering giving or receiving a promise ring or simply curious about this romantic tradition, here’s a complete guide the world of promise rings and all they represent.
What Is a Promise Ring?
A promise ring is just that: a symbol of a promise or commitment. In a relationship, it generally means you’re taking your commitment to the next level. Your ring can promise that you’re serious about the relationship, that you will be monogamous, that you will be faithful, that you will remain chaste until marriage, and that you’ll remain together in a long distance relationship, for example, if one partner is serving in the military or has to move for school, work, or family reasons.
Promise rings are often given in lieu of an engagement ring, as a way to show commitment without the formal proposal. They can be exchanged by couples of all ages, from high school sweethearts to long-time partners. Regardless of the specific promise a promise ring represents, it serves as a tangible reminder of that promise and can strengthen the bond between two people. For example, celebrity couple Liam Hemsworth gave a promise ring to Miley Cyrus, symbolizing their commitment to each other before they got engaged.
Promise rings don’t have to be romantic. A promise ring given between friends is a promise you’ll be there for each other through thick and thin. The promise can also be something you are promising yourself, like a commitment to sobriety for those who are struggling with addiction, commitment to a faith or spiritual belief, or symbolize your promise to stay true to yourself, to prioritize personal growth, or to practice self-love and self-care.
If you give a promise ring, be clear about the meaning of the ring. Make sure both you and your partner understand its significance. Is it a pre-engagement ring? A symbol of commitment? Understanding the meaning behind the ring can help avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.
The Best Promise Ring Styles
When it comes to promise rings, there are countless styles to choose from to fit any taste or budget. The most popular styles are band rings and small solitaire rings.
Promise rings can come in a variety of styles and materials, from simple bands to elaborate diamond designs. They are typically worn on the ring finger of the left hand, though some people prefer to wear them on the right hand or on a chain around their neck. Unlike engagement rings, there are no strict rule. While promise rings are not as formal as engagement rings, they still carry significant meaning and should be chosen with care.
Consider the recipient’s personal style. Look at the types of jewelry your partner wears to get an idea of their personal style. Do they prefer classic pieces or modern ones? What color metal do they most often wear? This will help you select a ring that matches their taste.
The type of promise you want to make with the ring can also guide your choice. Is it a promise of commitment, friendship, or abstinence? Choose a ring that symbolizes your promise in the most meaningful way.
Set a budget before shopping to help you narrow down your options. Promise rings typically cost less than engagement rings. Most people spend between $200 and $800. As a symbol of commitment, the promise ring should be meaningful, made out of lasting materials.
Lab grown diamonds are a popular choice for promise rings because they symbolize a forever promise. Beautiful and affordable, a lab grown diamond promise ring will be a brilliant and enduring reminder of your promise. A lab grown diamond solitaire symbolizes that your partner is the only one for you. An illusion lab grown diamond solitaire combines many small lab grown diamonds together to give it the impact of one larger gem. A stackable lab-grown diamond band can be worn later with an engagement ring and wedding band.
It's easy to mistake a promise ring for an engagement ring, but there are some key differences between the two. The most obvious difference in engagement rings vs promise rings is the timing: an engagement ring is given when a couple has decided to get married, while a promise ring can be given at any point in a relationship.
Engagement rings are typically more elaborate and expensive than promise rings, with a larger center stone, traditionally a diamond. They are worn on the left ring finger and given during a formal proposal. Promise rings are usually less expensive than engagement rings. They can be worn on any finger and given in a more casual way, without a formal proposal.
While you are shopping for the perfect promise ring, keep in mind the special significance it holds for you and your partner. Whether you opt for a classic design or a more modern style, the most important thing is to choose something that reflects your unique love story. Your promise ring is a symbol of the love and commitment you share and a cherished reminder of the promises you make to each other.
