What is a promise ring? Meaning,styles and buying guide | CHURINGA RINGS

A promise ring is often given as the first symbol of commitment between two people in a romantic relationship. However, it does not signify a marriage proposal. This article explains when, how and what ring you should give as a promise ring.

When to give a promise ring?

These are the most common reasons why people give someone a promise ring:

1. The relationship is new, and you or your family may consider it too soon to get engaged, but you already know that you want to commit to your partner in a serious way.

2. Both of you are too young or not financially ready for a marriage, but you know that you’ll always want to be together.

3. You might have to spend time living apart in different cities or countries. For example, because of work or studies. In this case, a promise ring symbolises the strength of your long-distance commitment.

4. You cannot afford an expensive engagement ring right now, but someday you will. A promise ring is a way to express serious commitment in the meantime.

What Is a Promise RingWhat Is a Promise Ring

Promise ring etiquette

There are a few important rules you should follow when giving a promise ring:

1. Be sure that you’re serious about your promise of lifelong commitment. A promise ring should not be given lightly.

2. Explain clearly that it is not an engagement ring. Otherwise, your partner is likely to think you’re proposing marriage.

3. For the same reason as explained in point 2, don’t get down on one knee when you give the ring. Instead, simply present the ring box to them, and let them open it.

Should a promise ring be worn all the time?

Most people like to wear a promise ring all the time and not take it off.

Some people prefer to wear theirs occasionally.

As a couple, you can decide that together.

What finger should a promise ring be worn on?

It can be worn on any finger.

However, it’s usually not worn on the traditional ring finger so that it’s not confused for an engagement ring.

If the promise ring is a ‘stand-in’ ring for a proposal

You can wear a promise ring on your ring finger if you have bought the promise ring for a proposal – in lieu of a proper engagement ring which you’re planning to choose later.

Then wearing the promise ring as a ‘stand-in’ on your ring finger makes perfect sense.

Other ways to wear a promise ring

Some people may also choose to wear their ring on a chain around their neck.

Can a man wear a promise ring?

Yes, both men and women can wear them.

How much should a promise ring cost?

A promise ring can be cheaper than an engagement ring.

But as your partner will probably wear it all the time, it should be good enough quality to withstand daily use.

The thicker the precious metal band, and the harder the gemstone, the better.

As with any important gift, buy the best quality you can afford.

What styles do promise rings come in?

Your ring should have a touch of personal style.

However, it should not be so ornate or fashionable that your partner will get tired of wearing it or they cannot combine it with outfits.

Here are some ring styles you should consider:

1. Solitaire

A single diamond ring, called a solitaire ring, is the most popular style for engagement rings.

It is also often seen as the best design for promise rings.

What Is a Promise RingWhat Is a Promise Ring

2. Diamond cluster

If a solitaire diamond is too much for your budget, consider a diamond cluster ring made of smaller stones.

Several small diamonds set together are more affordable than a solitaire.

3. Gemstones

Gemstones make beautiful alternatives to diamonds and can be more affordable.

However, be wary of ‘soft’ gemstones, such as opal, which are easily scratched or broken, or gems that are easily damaged by water, such as pearls. They are not suitable for constant daily use.

Instead choose a hardy gem, such as a blue sapphire, pink sapphire, ruby, amethyst or blue topaz.

Emerald, aquamarine and quartz rings feature gems with medium-hard toughness. They’re still very durable but require slightly more careful wear.

What Is a Promise RingWhat Is a Promise Ring

4. Trilogy rings

Three-stone rings, called trilogy rings, symbolise the past, the present and the future of a couple’s relationship.

The concept is based on the traditional Irish trinity knot ring.

This romantic significance makes 3-stone rings ideal as promise rings.

What Is a Promise RingWhat Is a Promise Ring

Choosing the precious metal

Depending on how often your significant other will wear their ring, choose the precious metal carefully.

– For daily wear, jewellers recommend platinum as it’s the toughest and the best; but it’s also the most expensive.

– Gold is a great option because it’s beautiful and lasting and comes in 9K or 18K choices, as well as in white gold, yellow gold and rose gold colours. 9K gold is more affordable than 18K gold.

– Silver if the most affordable, but also the softest of all precious metals so it can bend and scratch easily. It’s a great option, however, if you’re on a very tight budget and your sweetheart will not wear the ring daily.*

*For daily wear, rings made of silver, or very thin gold ring bands, are not ideal. They are usually meant for occasional use and not crafted to withstand constant wear and tear.

Measuring ring size

Ring size is very important. If the ring doesn’t fit, your gift recipient will be very disappointed.

Measuring ring size is easy if you order a free ring size tool or visit a jeweller.

But if you want to surprise your loved one, then finding out the ring size can be a little trickier.

The easiest way to find out a ring size in secret is with a ring sizer app for your iPhone or Android smartphone. Simply find an existing ring that your partner already owns, download the app, then place the ring on your phone screen to find out the size.

Order a free ring sizer tool

In conclusion

Giving someone a promise ring is a big deal and it should not be done lightly.

Though not a proposal of marriage, it’s a heartfelt and serious symbol of lasting love and deep commitment.

Therefore, choose the ring with love and care to ensure your loved one can wear and cherish it for a long time.

Discover more

  • 22 Wedding Ring Questions and Answers
  • How to Choose a Diamond Ring – 12 Tips to Success
  • How to Measure Ring Size

Share this:

Tagsguide • promise

Post navigation

Previous Post Previous Post Next Post Next Post

Ten articles before and after

Men's diamond earrings guide to buying and wearing | CHURINGA RINGS

What diamond cut is best for my engagement ring? 7 Best cuts | CHURINGA RINGS

9K Gold VS 18K Gold – What is the difference between 9K and 18K gold? | CHURINGA RINGS

Guide to Buying Aquamarine Jewellery – 10 Facts Aquamarine Gemstone | CHURINGA RINGS

How to treat an infected daith piercing?

Sapphire Colours – How Many Shades Do These Gems Come in and Why? | CHURINGA RINGS

Meaning of Jewellery Symbols – Which Is Your Symbol? | CHURINGA RINGS

How to Measure Ring Size | CHURINGA RINGS

How do you wear stacking rings? Guide to stacking your rings like a pro | CHURINGA RINGS

How wear a big statement ring: Full guide to fashion and cocktail rings | CHURINGA RINGS

Item added to cart.
0 items - $0.00