So, you’ve decided you want to get your girlfriend a promise ring. What now? Proposing 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 valentines 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.
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.
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
9ct White Gold Diamond Ring
For a more traditional look, this 9ct White Gold Diamond Ring is an understated and simple look that has maximum shine and sparkle. The minimalist band highlights the brilliant cut diamond and is a perfect choice for a more traditional promise ring.
$469.50
Exuding warmth and luxury this 9ct White Gold Diamond Ring is nothing less than breathtaking. Embellished with brilliant cut diamonds in a cluster like pattern, it makes for an ideal engagement ring.… read more9ct White Gold with 7 Diamonds Cluster Engagement Ring
$869.00
9ct Yellow Gold Created Ruby + 4 Cubic Zirconia Ring
For instant allure, you can’t go past this 9ct Yellow Gold Created Ruby + 4 Cubic Zirconia Ring. This ring is gorgeous in its uniqueness and exudes feminine luxury. The dazzling cubic zirconia gives the essence of diamonds without the price tag and the elegant swirling design ties it all together nicely.
$284.50
For instant allure, this 9ct yellow gold created ruby + 4 cubic zirconia ring offers an effortlessly chic style to every look. Encased in a gold band, is a round ruby zirconia stone with 4 cubic crystals perched majestically at… read more9ct Yellow Gold Created Ruby + 4 Cubic Zirconia Ring
$534.00
Sterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Border White Princess Ring
This Sterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Border White Princess Ring is a real beauty. From the Princess Kate collection, this ring is the epitome of class. To make a stunning statement, you can’t go past this halo setting.
$114.60
From the Princess Kate collection, this sparkling blue and white cubic zirconia ring in sterling silver will make a stunning statement.… read moreSterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Border White Princess Ring
$234.00
Luminesce Laboratory Grown 9ct White Gold 1/5 Carat Diamond Dress Ring
This ring is a part of our luminesce lab grown diamond ring range. These lab grown diamonds are quickly increasing in popularity as they are more affordable and ethical than mined diamonds. This ring is a fabulous choice for a promise ring because it is quality, yet simple and understated.
$269.00
A Luminesce Laboratory Grown 9ct White Gold 1/5 Carat Diamond Dress Ring with a floral cluster of diamonds. This beautifully patterned piece is a stunning way to wear your diamonds, and has the perfect slim sterling silver band to match.… read moreLuminesce Laboratory Grown 9ct White Gold 1/5 Carat Diamond Dress Ring
9ct Rose Gold Morganite and Zirconia Oval Ring
For something a little different we love this 9ct Rose Gold Morganite and Zirconia Oval Ring. Exuding divine feminine with its dreamy hues of pink and gold, this ring is sure to turn heads.
$184.00
A gorgeous 9ct Rose Gold Morganite and Zirconia Oval Ring to wear and adore. At the centre of this swirling rose gold ring is a stunning oval cut morganite. This orange-red stone is a cousin of emerald, with one of… read more9ct Rose Gold Morganite and Zirconia Oval Ring *Resize 1-2 Sizes
Making the decision to gift your partner with a promise ring is an exciting step in your life and your relationship. The best part about a promise ring is that they can symbolise whatever you want them to mean, it's entirely up to you and your partner. Be sure to make your intentions clear and let her know exactly why you are giving her this ring to make the moment extra special.
At Shiels, we have the biggest range at unbeatable prices. No matter what you are searching for, there is going to be something to suit your needs and desires to make this moment as perfect as can be.
