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.
$249.00
This ring has a traditional style with a modern twist. The band hollows in the middle towards the centre to create two beams that meet at the sparkly cubic zirconia centrepiece. The cubic zirconia stone is held in place by… read more
9ct Yellow Gold Cubic Zirconia 4 Claw Ring
$499.00
Our Favourite Promise Rings
Shiels has a bevvy 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.
$384.00
This stunning diamond eternity ring features 10 brilliant cut diamonds in a channel setting. Crafted in 9ct yellow gold.… read more9ct Yellow Gold Diamond Ring Set with 10 Stunning Brilliant Diamonds
$1,034.00
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 ¼ carat's worth of diamonds, this ring certainly brings the sparkle and is the perfect gift.
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 0.2 Carat Diamond
$769.00
$1,969.00
Contemporary yet timeless, a solitaire engagement ring is simply exquisite. This sparkling solitaire features a stunning 1/5 Carat diamond. Crafted in 9ct white gold.… 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
$1,669.00
$4,069.00
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.
