Promise rings are very much making a comeback. An old tradition that dates back to the Roman era where the men would gift the women in their life plain rings to betrothal, the art of exchanging promise rings is seemingly getting a new lease on life with many modern couples now eager to sport this very significant item of jewellery.
While some are exchanging the promise rings as a precursor to engagement rings and then eventually wedding rings, others are wearing them and entirely forgoing bridal jewellery as well as the idea of marriage altogether. Whatever your reason may be for rocking a promise ring, you cannot deny that it is a beautiful way to highlight the love and commitment you and your partner have for one another.
So, what should a promise ring look like? Read on to find out everything you need to know about picking the perfect one.
Overview:
- What Should A Promise Ring Look Like?
- The History Of Promise Rings
- A Guide To Our Favourite Promise Rings
What Should A Promise Ring Look Like?
Much like how the meaning behind them can vary from couple to couple, so can the design. While some will opt for elegant diamond rings, others will opt for a timeless yet slightly more affordable cubic zirconia ring. There are even couples that will choose something with gemstones, while many will even avoid stones altogether for a simple silver or gold ring with a meaningful quote or engraving. But while the rules around what a promise ring should look like are pretty lenient, that isn’t to say that couples haven’t adopted an invisible style guide for these rings. Particularly, if you and your partner do eventually plan on introducing a diamond engagement ring to your repertoire.
Traditionally, promise rings will not only be a lot smaller than bridal sets but also a lot more understated and less extravagant. Generally, the diamonds and gemstones will be a lot smaller than what is typically set onto an engagement ring and will often be arranged in a cluster, taper, pave or channel design rather than a solitaire. Often promise rings will combine gemstones and diamonds, however, they will usually feature stones that are less prominent than gemstone engagement ring designs. Aquamarine rings are popular for their soft, ocean-blue colour.
As the unofficial Queen of the Gems, pearl jewellery is also a super popular choice. Many promise rings will also mimic the design of traditional diamond solitaire engagement rings with a smaller diamond or a cubic zirconia stone in place of a larger diamond. Those with an interest in vintage styles will often go with antique-style silver rings or even Claddagh rings, a traditional Irish design adorned with a heart held by two hands and a crown representing love, loyalty and friendship.
Natural Aquamarine Ring in Sterling Silver
$79.99
$299.00
Natural Aquamarine Ring in Sterling Silver… read more
9ct Yellow Gold Infinity Double Heart Diamond Ring Set With 5 Brilliant Cut Diamonds
$399.00
$1,499.00
Exude regal elegance in this Gold Infinity Double Heart Diamond Ring. Crafted from sumptuous gold and embellished with five brilliant cut diamonds, this ring is striking, beautiful and is sure to captivate the attention of onlookers. Pair this ring with… read more
Cubic Zirconia Heart Claddagh Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold
$699.00
Please contact us regarding special order enquiries for this ring. All ring sizes can be specially ordered, with delivery approximately 10-12 weeks.… read more
The History Of Promise Rings
History has also dictated what a promise ring should look like. While the concept behind promise rings dates back to the days of Ancient Rome, the idea really took off following the start of the 15th to 17th centuries in French, Latin or English. During this era, women would sport band rings crafted from yellow gold known as posy rings to symbolise the affection they have for their lovers. These rings would often be engraved with short poetic messages that were often written in French or Latin. Throughout the 19th century, aristocrats would be given gemstone rings by their partners that affectionately spelt out words such as “regard” and “dearest".
By the 20th century, the popularity of promise rings waned slightly. This was largely due to the rise in the popularity of diamond and round engagement rings, which famously skyrocketed following the release of an iconic De Beers advert in 1947 that coined the term “A Diamond Is Forever”. However, by the turn of the millennium, promise rings had their moment in the sun again as many modern couples shunned tradition by getting married and having children later than their parents and grandparents, or more drastically, completely discarding the idea of marriage. Much like the engagement ring, promise ring styles have evolved to become more fluid in the 2000s, 2010s and 2020s. One element that has always remained a constant thread weaved throughout history, however, is that promise rings have always been subtler than wedding, engagement and even eternity rings.
A Guide To Our Favourite Promise Rings
From dainty infinity designs all the way to grand coloured diamond rings and even men’s rings, there is certainly no shortage of stylish and elegant promise rings in Shiels’ burgeoning collection. These are a few of our favourites that may just help you find the answer to what should a promise ring look like.
9ct Yellow Gold Ring With 21 Brilliant Cut Diamonds
Crafted from luxurious 9ct yellow gold and embellished with 21 brilliant cut diamonds that are arranged into a stylish square shape, this gold piece has a great deal of character about it. With its timeless twist setting, there is a slight vintage appeal about this gold diamond ring and so it may just be perfect for that special person in your life who is a bit of an old soul.
9ct Yellow Gold Ring With 21 Brilliant Cut Diamonds
$499.00
$1,299.00
Sparkle like no other with this gorgeous Gold Diamond Ring. Crafted from luxurious 9ct gold and embellished with 21 brilliant cut diamonds arranged in a vintage square shape, this ring exudes beauty, opulence and excellent taste.… read more
Luminesce Lab Grown 1/6 Carat Diamond Infinity Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold & Sterling Silver
Boasting two loops that join together as one, the infinity symbol is synonymous with romance, commitment and an unbreakable bond, so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular designs for promise rings. This piece puts a modern twist on the classic, pairing a rope-textured infinity loop in warm 9ct yellow gold with a sterling silver band set with sparkling diamonds from the Luminesce Lab Grown Diamond range. Mixing gold and silver gives it a relaxed, boho-chic feel that’s made for layering, and it looks just as good stacked with silver rings as it does with gold rings. Still deciding what your promise means? Our Promise Ring Guide walks you through it.
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
Freshwater Pearl and Cubic Zirconia Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold
Decorated with an elegant leaf pattern that is accentuated by yellow gold, this pearl ring has a real timeless feel, yet would probably suit the partner that likes to stray from the norm with their very eclectic style. Pearl jewellery is not only the June birthstone, but they are also a symbol of wisdom, patience and peace, traits that are arguably essential for any happy relationship. Which is more of a reason to have pearls incorporated within your promise ring.
Freshwater Pearl and Cubic Zirconia Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold
$199.00
Freshwater Pearl and Cubic Zirconia Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold… read more
9ct Rose Gold 0.05 Carat Diamond Ring with 5 Brilliant Diamonds
Five brilliant-cut diamonds sit in a row across the front of this 9ct rose gold band, giving the same dainty “station” sparkle as the original. It’s subtle enough for every day and stacks well with an engagement ring later. That makes it a promise ring that keeps its place once the next ring arrives.
9ct Rose Gold 0.05 Carat Diamond Ring with 5 Brilliant Diamonds
$249.00
This 9ct Rose Gold 0.05 Carat Diamond Ring with 5 Brilliant Diamonds has a beautiful alternative design. Five glittery diamonds are positioned on the rings front, giving it a cute but dazzling look under light. The smoothness of the rose… read more
9ct Rose Gold Created Morganite and Diamond Cushion Ring
If you want blush-pink romance, a cushion-cut created morganite surrounded by diamonds gives you all the colour of a pink diamond for a fraction of the price. Set in warm 9ct rose gold, it has the look of a classic engagement ring on a smaller scale, which makes it ideal as a pre-engagement piece.
9ct Rose Gold Created Morganite And Diamond Cushion Ring
$499.00
Experience the enchanting beauty of our 9ct Rose Gold Created Morganite and Diamond Cushion Ring. Meticulously crafted with love and precision, this ring showcases a magnificent design that effortlessly combines femininity and brilliance. The centrepiece of the ring features a… read more
You May Also Like:
- What Is A Promise Ring?
- Can You Give A Promise Ring To Your Best Friend?
- Which Rings To Wear On What Finger
- Do Men Wear Promise Rings?
- How To Give Your Girlfriend A Promise Ring
- The Personalised Gifts We Keep Forever
- How To Save For Engagement Rings And Wedding Bands
FAQs
What should a promise ring look like?
A promise ring is usually smaller and more understated than an engagement ring. Popular styles include:
- dainty diamond bands
- clusters
- infinity and heart designs
- gemstone rings
There’s no strict rule. The best promise ring reflects your partner’s style and what your promise means to you. Browse our promise rings collection.
Should a promise ring look different from an engagement ring?
Usually, yes. Most couples choose a promise ring with smaller stones or a cluster, pavé or channel setting, rather than a large solitaire, so it isn’t mistaken for an engagement ring. If you plan to get engaged later, a subtle design also leaves room for the engagement ring to be the statement piece.
What gemstones are popular for promise rings?
Morganite, aquamarine, pearl and birthstones are all popular choices. Morganite brings a soft blush pink, aquamarine a fresh pale blue, and pearls a classic, timeless feel. A birthstone adds a personal touch. Find theirs in our birthstone guide, or shop morganite and aquamarine jewellery.
What metal is best for a promise ring?
Sterling silver and 9ct gold are the most popular metals for promise rings. Sterling silver is affordable and classic, while 9ct gold, in yellow, white or rose, is more durable for everyday wear. Two-tone styles that mix gold and silver are a modern option. Shop silver rings and gold rings.
What symbols are used on promise rings?
These are the most meaningful symbols for promise rings:
- the infinity symbol, for everlasting love
- the heart, for love and affection
- the Claddagh, two hands holding a crowned heart, for love, loyalty and friendship
- knots, for an unbreakable bond
Not sure what your promise means? Our promise ring guide walks you through it.
Does a promise ring need a diamond?
No. Many promise rings feature diamonds, but cubic zirconia, gemstones, pearls or a plain gold or silver band are just as meaningful. If you’d like a diamond, Luminesce lab-grown diamonds or a small diamond cluster can give you more sparkle for your budget.
Can a promise ring be worn with an engagement ring later?
Yes. A slim diamond band or a simple station ring stacks neatly next to an engagement ring. Many people move their promise ring to the right hand once they’re engaged. Choosing a slim, low-profile design now makes stacking easier later.
Do couples’ promise rings need to match?
No. Some couples choose matching rings, while others pick different styles in the same metal or with the same symbol. A slim band for one partner and a sturdier ring for the other can still look like a pair. See do men wear promise rings? for men’s styles.
