Promise Rings

Making a Promise

A promise is not something to make lightly, and a ring to symbolize that promise should not be given lightly. Many people exchange promise jewelry as a token of their commitment to one another or to a common cause, and even though these meaningful rings are most frequently given as a precursor to a more elaborate engagement ring, they can actually serve several purposes.

Promise Ring History

Promise rings have been exchanged for generations, often as pins or class rings between courting couples. Today, promises can take many different forms. Parents may give a child a promise or commitment ring when that child makes a commitment to a cause, such as remaining chaste until marriage or committing to religious service. A child may also receive a promise ring as part of a family wedding ceremony to show the parents’ love for that child and their commitment to the new family. Best friends often exchange tokens that symbolize their relationship, and promise or friendship rings are popular options, particularly if they are identical or part of a split set. A husband may give his wife a new ring to symbolize a promise of ongoing fidelity, continued love, and a recommitment to their marriage. With so many promise ring meanings to choose from, this type of symbolic jewelry can be a delightful gift for many different occasions and relationships.

Poor Promises

While there are many honorable reasons to exchange promise rings, not all promises are as meaningful as those that include a long term, heartfelt commitment. Exchanging a ring for the simplest of promises can dilute the significance of a treasured ring, and if that promise is not kept, it can be a devastating reminder of a poor relationship and unfulfilled commitments.

While many couples exchange promise or commitment rings because they are not yet comfortable with getting engaged or perhaps they are too young to get engaged, it is inappropriate for an older, more established couple to opt for a promise rather than a true engagement. If a promise ring may be seen as insulting or belittling, the couple may want to consider a very long engagement while they prepare for a life together, instead of making a lesser commitment.

Popular Types of Rings

Several types of ring designs are popular for promise commitments, including:

• Hearts: Rings with heart-shaped gemstones, hearts woven or embossed on the band, or heart engravings are one of the most popular styles for romantic rings that show how strongly the promise comes from the heart.
• Diamonds: Diamond promise rings are just as lovely as many engagement ring designs, particularly for a stronger commitment of love and devotion.
• Birthstones: Birthstone rings can be especially meaningful when more than one gem is used, because different birthstones can represent the individuals sharing the promise.
• Engraved Rings: A simple engraving with a few carefully chosen words can strengthen the promise with a personal touch and will be treasured for years.

Promise vs. Engagement Rings

Many promise rings bear a striking resemblance to popular engagement rings such as diamond solitaire engagement rings or more elaborately accented styles. Promise styles, however, have several characteristics that distinguish them from true engagement rings.

• Metal: In general, the precious metal used for a promise style will be a lower quality, less expensive alloy such as silver or 10 karat gold instead of the platinum or richer gold favored for engagement rings.
• Gem Size: While diamonds can make promises, the total carat weight of a promise design is typically less than three-quarters of a carat even for the most elaborate ring. Fewer gems are used, and diamond chips may be substituted for full gems.
• Gem Type: While some non-diamond engagement rings are popular, most brides prefer diamonds. In contrast, many promise designs use colorful semi precious gemstones instead.
• Simplicity: Promise designs are usually less elaborate than engagement rings, using fewer accents and less intricate craftsmanship.
• Price: While engagement ring prices can soar to thousands of dollars, most promise styles are less than $500, and there are many beautiful promise rings available for less than $100. Couples can find further discounts by choosing cubic zirconia instead of precious gems or by opting for discounted ring styles.

Finding Promise Rings

Most jewelers offer a basic selection of promise designs with and without gemstones. While the rings may not be explicitly labeled “promise,” any fashion ring, birthstone ring, or gemstone ring can make a lovely token for a promise.

Diamond Promise Silver Ring

Online jewelers also offer a wide selection of ring styles to compliment any promise. Popular retailers include:

• Heavenly Treasures
• Jewel Basket
• Zales Jewelry
• Limoges Jewelry
• Helzberg Diamonds
• Mondera
• Emitations
• Riddle’s Jewelry
• A Ring Thing
• Buy Dazzle

Ring Alternatives

For some individuals, a ring may not be the best way to symbolize a promise. In this case, there are many alternatives to choose instead of a formal ring, including:

• Woven or gemstone friendship bracelets
• Split jewelry sets, such as a heart-and-key pendant
• Matching jewelry, such as earrings or pendants
• Lockets with a personal picture or message
• Personal jewelry, such as class rings or monogram pieces

Promise rings are lovely designs that can help individuals make a strong commitment to a relationship, cause, or action. Whether the ring is discounted or expensive, plain or diamond-studded, so long as the promise comes from the heart the token of that promise will be treasured.