So, you’ve decided you want to get your girlfriend a promise ring. What now? Giving a promise ring is a big step in your relationship and you want to make sure that you know the ins and outs of the whole process. The thing about promise rings is that there are no concrete rules about the process, the ring or its meaning, it's all up to you and your partner. From the meaning to the proposal, to which ring to pick out, it's the finer details that are going to make this moment extra special.
Read on to find out more about the history of these rings and how to give your girlfriend a promise ring. Let us help you decide what is best for you!
Overview:
- What is a Promise Ring?
- History of the Promise Ring
- What type of Ring is a Promise Ring?
- A Roundup of our Favourite Promise Rings
What is a promise ring?
A promise ring can mean several different things depending on the couple – it really is each to their own. An appeal to promise rings is that their meaning is ambiguous. To some, a promise ring signifies a pledge to eventually marry that person and that the ring will eventually be replaced with an engagement ring. To others, a promise ring can simply be a physical symbol of your devotion to each other. Promise rings are often bought by younger couples who maybe cannot commit to the seriousness of marriage but still want to express their love and commitment.
History Of The Promise Ring
Promise rings have been around for a long time. Roman brides would wear promise rings during the 2nd century BC to symbolise a promise to marry. At this time, law stated that couples had to wait a certain period of time from announcing an intention to marry, and the ceremony itself. A similar idea was seen in England from the 15th to the 17th century. ‘Posy’ rings featured an engraved love poem and were symbols of romantic affection and devotion. While there have been many names and variations of the same idea, jewellery and rings have continued to act as a promise for commitment, and a token of romance throughout time.
In recent years celebrities such as Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers wore promise rings to show their commitment to purity and chastity. Since then, promise rings have risen in popularity and moved away from the purity notation to merely symbolise devotion to a partner.
Which finger should you wear a promise ring on?
It is up to you which finger you choose to wear a promise ring on. For those who see a promise ring as a step before engagement, the ring may be worn on the traditional wedding ring finger (on the left hand). However, often a promise ring is worn on the opposite hand to show that they are still yet to be engaged.
A promise ring really can be worn on any finger – it’s entirely up to you. Some people even wear their promise ring on a chain around their neck, which is an alternative option.
How To Give Your Girlfriend A Promise Ring
The Rundown
When you present the promise ring to your girlfriend it is essential that you know exactly what to say. Be sure to explain to her why you have chosen to give her one, and the things that you love about her. Because the meaning around promise rings is so ambiguous, be sure to explain to her exactly what this symbolises to you, and how important it is in your relationship - this way you are both on the same page and she will love the thought that you have put into the proposal.
Romantic Locale
Set the scene with the perfect location. If there is a place that is significant to your relationship, going back to this spot can be an extremely romantic gesture. Likewise, if they have a favourite restaurant, lookout or special place, this can be a beautiful setting to reveal your promise ring.
If you’re wanting something more lowkey, organising a romantic date at home with homemade cooking, flowers and candles is just as romantic!
Surprise!
Many people choose to give a promise ring on a special occasion. This could be Valentine's Day, Christmas, a birthday or anniversary present. Give the gift of love with a ring that they will treasure for a lifetime.
Buy The Ring Together
Take the guesswork out of buying a ring and take your significant other with you! If you have been in a long-term relationship and have spoken to each other about a promise ring, why not go together and get her something that she will definitely adore.
How much should you spend?
A promise ring should not be as extravagant as an engagement ring and the price tag should also reflect that. These rings are typically purchased by younger couples who do not have the financial means to be spending a lot of money, hence, the price range for a promise ring can start at as little as $59. Although typically a promise ring will range from about $200 - $500, depending on the couple. There is no set amount that you should spend, and the purpose of a promise ring is more centred around its meaning than the monetary value.
Luminesce Lab Grown 1/10 Carat Diamond Bezel Solitaire Ring in Sterling Silver
$99.50
$199.00
Luminesce Lab Grown 1/10 Carat Diamond Bezel Solitaire Ring in Sterling Silver… read more
1/4 Carat Luminesce Laboratory Grown Silver Ring with 57 Diamonds
$249.00
$599.00
Shop sustainably with this ¼ Carat Luminesce Laboratory Grown Silver Ring with 57 Diamonds. Made to make a statement, this ring will ensure that all eyes are on you. Your hand will be shining from every angle with this gorgeous… read more
9ct Yellow Gold Luminesce Lab Grown Double Band Diamond Ring
$399.00
9ct Yellow Gold Luminesce Lab Grown Double Band Diamond Ring… read more
What type of ring is a promise ring?
Promise rings tend to be smaller and less extravagant than engagement rings. They tend to be made of precious metals like gold rings and silver rings. Some promise rings feature diamonds, however, most consist of more affordable yet valuable gemstones. In recent years, promise rings have strayed away from traditional designs which has led to more gemstone rings. It is more popular and trendy to adorn an alternative coloured stone in a contemporary setting that reflects the personality and individual style of the wearer. It is less essential that your promise ring be especially timeless, but more that it shows how much you know that person and what they will like. In saying this, more traditional and simple rings are forever beloved, you can’t go wrong with a classic diamond ring.
9ct Yellow Gold 0.65 Carat Natural Sapphire & Diamonds Ring
$299.00
9ct Yellow Gold 0.65 Carat Natural Sapphire & Diamonds Ring… read more
9ct Yellow Gold 0.5 Carat Natural Ruby & Diamonds Ring
$399.50
$799.00
9ct Yellow Gold 0.5 Carat Natural Ruby & Diamonds Ring… read more
Natural Amethyst & Diamond Ring in Sterling Silver
$199.00
$399.00
Natural Amethyst & Diamond Ring in Sterling Silver… read more
Alternative gemstones that make magical promise rings include morganite rings, ruby rings, cubic zirconia rings, sapphire rings and amethyst rings.
A Roundup of our Favourite Promise Rings
From timeless diamonds to soft pastel gemstones, here are some of our favourite promise rings to suit every style and budget.
A Classic Diamond Band
If they love simple, timeless jewellery, you can't go past a classic diamond band. This 9ct white gold ring is set with seven brilliant cut diamonds that catch the light from every angle. Its slim, understated design is perfect for everyday wear, and it'll sit beautifully alongside an engagement ring later on.
9ct White Gold Diamond Ring Set With 7 Brilliant Cut Diamonds
$299.00
This eternity diamond ring is perfectly unique. With 7 brilliant cut diamonds, the 9ct white gold ring is sure to make a statement.… read more
A Modern Lab-Grown Solitaire
For a ring that feels like a little preview of what's to come, a solitaire is hard to beat. This 9ct yellow gold ring features a sparkling emerald cut Luminesce lab-grown diamond in a sleek bezel setting. Lab-grown diamonds have the same sparkle and hardness as mined diamonds at a more accessible price, and the smooth bezel protects the stone for everyday wear.
Luminesce Lab Grown 1/10 Carat Emerald Cut Bezel Solitaire Diamond Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold
$499.50
$999.00
Luminesce brings you this beautiful emerald cut lab grown diamond ring, set in 9ct yellow gold with a clean bezel setting that frames the stone perfectly. The 1/10 carat diamond has a near-colourless GH colour grade, giving you genuine sparkle… read more
A Bold Natural Ruby
Ruby is the stone of passion and love, which makes it a meaningful choice for a promise ring. This 9ct yellow gold ring pairs a vibrant natural ruby with sparkling diamonds for a pop of colour that still feels timeless. It's also July's birthstone, so it's a thoughtful pick for a July baby.
9ct Yellow Gold 0.5 Carat Natural Ruby & Diamonds Ring
$399.50
$799.00
9ct Yellow Gold 0.5 Carat Natural Ruby & Diamonds Ring… read more
A Sparkling Halo on a Budget
Want maximum sparkle without the big price tag? This sterling silver ring features a princess cut cubic zirconia centre framed by a halo of glittering stones. It's an affordable way to make a beautiful statement, and it's perfect for younger couples or a first promise ring.
Sterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Border White Princess Ring
$99.99
$259.00
From the Princess Kate collection, this sparkling blue and white cubic zirconia ring in sterling silver will make a stunning statement.… read more
A Soft Pink Morganite
For something a little different, morganite's soft blush tones are hard to resist. This 9ct rose gold ring sets a 0.8ct morganite in a halo of diamonds, which adds sparkle and helps protect the stone. Romantic and unique, it's made for anyone who loves a touch of colour.
9ct Rose Gold 0.8ct Morganite and 0.10 Carat Diamond Halo Ring
$999.50
$1,999.00
This stunning morganite and diamond ring is chic and on-trend. In stunning blush tones, the 9ct rose gold ring features 14 points of sparkling diamonds. Please contact us regarding special order enquiries for this ring. All ring sizes can be… read more
A Meaningful Infinity Design
Infinity rings are one of the most popular promise ring styles, and for good reason: the symbol represents endless love. This ring features an infinity design set with Luminesce lab-grown diamonds in 9ct yellow gold and sterling silver. It's a sweet, wearable way to say "forever".
Luminesce Lab Grown 1/6 Carat Diamond Infinity Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold & Sterling Silver
$249.50
$499.00
Luminesce Lab Grown 1/6 Carat Diamond Infinity Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold & Sterling Silver… read more
Giving a promise ring is an exciting step in any relationship. The best part is that it can mean whatever you and your partner want it to, so make your intentions clear and tell them exactly why you chose this ring. That's what makes the moment truly special.
Whether you're after a classic diamond, a pop of colour or something with a hidden meaning, you'll find promise rings to suit every style and budget at Shiels. Shop online, or visit your nearest store for help finding the perfect ring and size.
