For couples who want to take their relationship to the next level but aren’t ready for a full-blown engagement, promise rings are a great option. This pre-engagement symbol has a long history that spans centuries and cultures.
If you’re considering giving your partner a promise ring, it’s important that both of you understand the meaning behind it. Read on to learn more about the traditions and symbols of promise rings.
The Meaning of a Promise Ring
A promise ring for couples is a symbol of commitment. It can be given by a man to his girlfriend to show that he is serious about her or it can be worn by a couple as a reminder of their commitment to each other.
The most common way to wear a promise ring is on the ring finger of the left hand if you’re unmarried, or on the right hand if you are married. This tradition comes from the ancient superstition (that’s not actually anatomically correct) that there’s a vein that runs directly from that finger to your heart.
Unlike an engagement ring, you don’t have to give a promise ring elaborately. You can simply present it to your partner on a special occasion like a holiday, birthday, or vacation. You can even give a promise ring as a surprise to make it extra special. If you want to give a promise ring as a token of your love, consider getting one that’s custom made using a beautiful gemstone or precious metal.
The Symbolism of a Promise Ring
There are many reasons why a couple may opt to give one another a promise ring. Finances, age, and geography can all play a part. A couple in medical school, for instance, might not be ready to commit to a large wedding just yet. For these couples, a promise ring is the perfect way to show their commitment without kicking off the wedding planning process.
In addition to romantic sentiments, promise rings can also symbolize friendship or a specific personal value. This type of symbolism is popular among couples who have a long-lasting connection or those who are moving away geographically.
There are many styles of promise rings to choose from, including ones that feature gems or engravings. Some popular designs include heart-shaped rings, infinity symbols, and Claddagh rings. For a more unique option, consider acrostic rings that spell out words with the use of gemstones (like a diamond for the letter D and a ruby for the letter R). You can also find a wide variety of affordable and meaningful promise rings at online retailers like Zales or Etsy.
The Meaning of a Couple’s Promise Ring
While some couples choose to wear promise rings as a way to display their chastity and commitment to each other, it is also common for them to be used to represent loyalty and devotion. It is usually best for both individuals to wear their rings in matching styles, with words or other symbols of love engraved on the surface.
While promise rings fell out of fashion for a while, they seem to be making a comeback in the form of diamond bands and pinky rings. It is not necessary for the giver to get down on one knee when presenting the ring to their loved one. They can be worn on any finger and can even be stacked with other rings such as an engagement ring.
Many people are finding that marriage is not right for them, or may not fit into their lifestyles. For those who do not wish to marry, a promise ring can be the perfect alternative. It can signify that you are still committed to your partner and the relationship, but you do not want to take the next step until you are ready.
The Symbolism of a Couple’s Engagement Ring
A promise ring can represent many different things, but it most commonly symbolizes commitment and a path towards engagement and marriage. You can find promise rings with a variety of sentiments and styles at Zales and Etsy, from Disney-inspired pieces to romantic infinity and Claddagh rings that symbolize the everlasting bond between you and your significant other.
Finances, age and geography can all be factors in when a couple decides to give one another a promise ring. For instance, a couple in medical school may not be ready to have a big wedding yet, or a couple that lives long distance due to work may want to wait to get engaged until they are both together again.
Regardless of what each pair wants their promise ring to symbolize, it is important for both parties to be on the same page about their relationship and what they are looking for in a future together. This way, if they decide in the end to go all the way and make it an engagement ring, there will be no surprises or disappointments along the way.