Not quite an eternity ring or an engagement ring, what is a promise ring exactly? Read on to find out and to explore some of our favourite promise ring designs.
One item of jewellery that has seen a bit of a revival in recent years is a promise ring. Exchanged between couples to signify their loyalty and commitment to one another, a promise ring is not an engagement ring but rather, a precursor to an engagement ring or another kind of commitment such as moving in together or having children. In a nutshell, promise rings are a sign that a romantic relationship is getting serious.
Promise rings originated between the 13th and 16th centuries when men would give the object of their affection a small gold ring known as a Posy ring which was inscribed with romantic phrases like ‘love conquers all,’ or simply the word ‘always’.
These rings would also see a resurgence in popularity during the Victorian and Georgian eras where they featured much more elaborate designs and even colourful gemstones such as rubies, emeralds and sapphires.
What Is A Promise Ring Overview:
Promise Ring Meaning
Like engagement rings, promise rings are also believed to symbolise commitment and eternal love. When a person gives their significant other a promise ring, it is a proclamation for that special person in their life. It is also representative of the possibilities for a couple’s love and their life together.
Promise rings let outsiders know that a relationship is serious and that it isn’t just a fling or puppy love. This is why promise rings are often exchanged between de facto couples who may have no interest in getting married one day.
Promise rings are also believed to symbolise the promise that a couple has made to make their union legal one day. Often regarded as a placeholder ring, promise rings often serve as a memento when a couple isn’t in the position to become engaged because they are separated by geographical distance, or because they simply aren’t ready to make that commitment because they have other things they want to achieve first.
Even though both rings symbolise the furthering of a relationship, neither engagement rings nor promise rings mean the same thing. Promise rings symbolise commitment while engagement rings symbolise the intention to marry and become legally bound. It is for this reason that the latter is seen as a much bigger step in a relationship, while the former is seen almost as phase one.
What Finger Does A Promise Ring Go On?
Promise rings can typically be worn on any finger as there generally are no rules when it comes to these rings. Popular options include the ring finger, the middle finger on the left hand and even the middle finger or fourth finger on their right hand. Some couples even wear their promise ring on a chain around the neck. It depends on the wearer’s personal preferences.
When a couple does eventually become engaged or get married, they will often switch their promise ring from the ring finger on their left hand to the ring finger on their right hand.
Different Promise Ring Designs
Promise rings tend to come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, ranging from a simple band with an inscription to diamond rings that are similar to a typical engagement ring design. Today’s promise rings tend to be more understated in their design.
One popular choice among couples looking to buy a promise ring is a smaller diamond ring that is complemented by a thin band that is very similar to a solitaire ring. Couples with a penchant for sparkles often go for a ring that features an assortment of tiny stones surrounding one big diamond. This diamond ring style is known as a halo ring, due to its similar appearance to an angel’s glowing halo. Some couples may also opt for a more affordable option like cubic zirconia rings, which allows them to have a glamorous design without having to break the bank.
Another style that has gained popularity in recent years are gemstones, with many couples gravitating towards opal rings and aquamarine rings, the latter, particularly after Meghan Markle was spotted wearing one from Princess Diana’s personal collection at her wedding to Prince Harry. Gemstone rings are also a popular choice because you can take a more personal approach by using your partner’s birthstone. Rings with the infinity symbol are also a popular design for promise rings as they represent forever.
Sterling Silver Rhodium Plated Cubic Zirconia Synthetic Opal Round Ring
$79.99
$199.00
Enjoy the beauty and wonder of this sterling silver rhodium plated oval synthetic opal and white CZ Flower Cluster Ring. Crafted from high-quality sterling silver, this ring features a beautiful 12mm x 14mm oval synthetic opal stone at the centre… read more
Our Favourite Promise Rings
Shiels has a bevy of promise rings to match your style. Whether you’re a minimalist with a penchant for understated jewellery, a glamazon who loves a lot of sparkles or a traditionalist who can’t go past an antique or solitaire ring, we guarantee you will find the perfect piece to symbolise you and your partner’s love and commitment to one another.
Here are just a few of our favourite promise rings in the Shiels range.
Featuring 10 brilliant-cut diamonds in a channel setting, this stunning ring is glamorous yet understated. Crafted from timeless 9-carat yellow gold, its tiny decadent diamond jewellery pieces make it the perfect symbol of eternal love.
9ct Yellow Gold Diamond Ring Set with 10 Stunning Brilliant Diamonds
$499.00
This stunning diamond eternity ring features 10 brilliant cut diamonds in a channel setting. Crafted in 9ct yellow gold.… read more$1,499.00
Reminiscent of a popular modern engagement ring style, this pear-shaped sterling silver dress ring is the ideal precursor to an engagement ring. With a Liuminesce Lab Grown Diamonds, this ring certainly brings the sparkle and is the perfect gift.
Luminesce Lab Grown Diamond Pear Dress Ring in Silver
$149.00
$399.00
A beautiful gift for a loved one or for yourself. This Luminesce Lab Grown Diamond Pear shaped ring will bring joy to ever day outfits. Luminesce Lab Grown Diamonds are quickly increasing in popularity as not only do they offer… read more
With a 9-carat solitaire band and solitaire claw setting, this decadent diamond ring will forever be a classic. Its simplistic nature makes it perfect to coordinate with other white gold rings in your jewellery collection.
9ct White Gold Solitaire Ring With 3/8 Carat 6 Claw Set Diamond
$637.00
Our 9ct White Gold Solitaire Ring With 3/8 Carat 6 Claw Set Diamond is a timeless piece of jewellery that will add beauty and glamour to any outfit. Made from solid 9ct white gold and set with a dazzling diamond… read more
This intricate ring featuring brilliant-cut diamonds makes for a unique conversation piece. Crafted from 18-carat white gold, this ring is perfect for couples who aren’t after an engagement ring.
18ct White Gold Ring With 1/2 Carat Diamonds
$3,499.30
$4,999.00
Take your look to the next level with the 18ct White Gold Ring With 1/2 Carat Diamonds. This ring will sparkle incredibly in the light with ½ carat of diamonds that is embellished along the ring. Crafted in the crisp… read more
Keen to explore more of Shiels’ promise rings collection? Be sure to hit up one of our store locations to check out our extensive rings range featuring everything from diamond, gold and silver rings to gemstone and pearl rings. If you can’t make it into store, browse online and explore using one of our various payment options available through Afterpay, Zip, humm, Latitude Interest-Free, Klarna and Laybuy.
Have you joined the VIP Club? Whether you’ve got your heart set on a classic solitaire, a sparkling halo or your partner’s birthstone, there’s an easy way to make your promise go further. Shiels VIP Club members get exclusive offers and first access to our best deals, which means more to put towards the engagement ring one day. Join the VIP Club today!
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FAQs
What is the difference between a promise ring and an engagement ring?
A promise ring symbolises commitment to a relationship, while an engagement ring symbolises the intention to marry. Promise rings are usually smaller and more understated, and they’re often given as a step before an engagement. Engagement rings mark the official decision to get married. Explore our promise rings and engagement rings to compare styles.
How much should you spend on a promise ring?
There’s no set amount. Most promise rings cost less than an engagement ring, and beautiful options start at under $100. Many couples spend somewhere between $100 and $500, but the meaning matters far more than the price. Our Promise Ring Guide has ideas for every budget.
Can a promise ring be any type of ring?
Yes. Any ring can be a promise ring, from a simple gold band to a diamond solitaire, birthstone ring or infinity design. What makes it a promise ring is the meaning behind it, not the style. Read more in Can Any Ring Be A Promise Ring?
What should a promise ring look like?
Promise rings are usually more understated than engagement rings. Popular styles include dainty diamond rings, halo rings, infinity designs and birthstone rings. Choose a design that suits your partner’s everyday style. See more ideas in What Should A Promise Ring Look Like?
Do men wear promise rings?
Yes. Men wear promise rings too, and many couples exchange matching rings. Plain gold bands, signet rings and subtle diamond bands are popular choices for men. Find out more in Do Men Wear Promise Rings?
What happens to a promise ring after you get engaged?
Many people move their promise ring to the right hand once they’re engaged, or keep it as a stacking ring alongside their engagement ring and wedding band. Others wear it on a chain or keep it as a keepsake of an important moment in their relationship.
Can you give a promise ring to a friend?
Yes. A promise ring doesn’t have to be romantic. Best friends often exchange promise rings to celebrate loyalty and friendship. Read Can You Give A Promise Ring To Your Best Friend? for ideas.
