Promise Ring Etiquette
What does a promise ring mean?
The promise ring is symbolic of a pledge made between two people. Two
examples which come to mind are a promise of sexual purity prior to marriage,
and the other is a promise of commitment to be true to one another.
There are several different ways this jewelry can be used so don’t
limit yourself to just the examples in the above statement. The true
meaning of a promise ring is really quite simple:
A promise ring is a piece of jewelry given when an agreement or oath
has been made between two people and the ring is meant as a memento of
that commitment.
The Significance of a Promise Ring
Promise rings symbolize a bond of trust and commitment between two
people. Examples of when to give a promise ring include:
- Pre-engagement: promise rings are extremely
popular. This is the number one reason why couples exchange promise
rings today – to show how serious they are in their commitment
to each other. “Pre-engagement rings” are a much less expensive
alternative to an actual engagement ring.
- Chastity: promise rings for chastity are
sometimes referred to as purity rings. Many believe that the commitment
here is like a promise to God saying that you are going to remain a
virgin until you are married. These rings are very popular among teens
today and can also be given to a child by a parent or guardian to seal
the child’s promise to remain pure until marriage as well.
- Friendship: Sometimes called friendship
rings, promise rings given for this reason are to seal a pledge
of eternal friendship between two people. Friendship promise rings
can be exchanged between many friends who wish to maintain a pact
with each other. Many people buy custom promise rings for everyone
in their group to wear.
- Monogamy: promise rings for this reason
are often given by couples who are not engaged or married but want
to seal their mutual promise of fidelity. Many gay and lesbian couples
share this type of ring to symbolize their commitment of fidelity to
each other.
- Substance Abstinence Promise Rings:
The Greek word "amethystos" can be loosely translated as "not
drunken". Centuries ago, Amethyst was considered to be a very
strong antidote against drunkenness. Today, the amethyst gemstone still
symbolizes sobriety, and is therefore the perfect gemstone to have
for a substance abstinence promise ring. Sobriety promise rings with
spiritual connections and/or the amethyst gemstone are suitable for
all types of substance sobriety including; alcohol abuse & drug
abuse, food addiction, gambling or sexual addictions.
Meaning and Devotion of a Promise Ring
The promise made between two people can be practically anything, including
but certainly not limited to the above examples. And what better way
to seal your pledge than with a beautiful promise ring? We’ve all
seen those old movies where two lovers or two kindred spirits keep half
a locket each as a promise that they will one day meet and be together
again…well, promise rings are the modern day version.
They are just as romantic and special, but come with a lot more choice.
Please check out our Ultimate Promise Ring Guide for more promise ring
definitions and our Buyers Guide for information on the affordable choices
available!
You can select from many styles…whatever suits your need and budget.
In fact, many beautiful promise rings can be purchased for around $100 – which
is an excellent value for this symbolic piece of jewelry.
Promise Ring History - Where did it all begin?
Promise rings are an effective way for many people to seal a pact or
pledge, but are certainly not a new concept.
In fact, promise rings have been around for centuries. They were commonly
used by both dignitaries and ordinary folk to signify commitment to a
variety of promises.
For example:
- In sixteenth century England, uncut diamond crystals were set into "scribbling
rings". Couples who exchanged these rings used the points of the
exposed diamonds to delineate or imprint romantic writings in windows,
glass or mirrors that would be forever etched in loving memory.
- The so called ‘Poesy Rings’ promise rings were often
given as a pledge of fidelity and love. The word 'Posey' has the same
meaning as: Promise, Poesy, Posy, and Posie. Mens posey rings were
very popular during Shakespearian times and were usually inscribed
with poetic phrases or significant dates. For more information on posey
rings – see the “Ultimate Promise Ring Guide”.
The
Question Asked Most Often:
How is a promise ring worn – which hand, which finger?
Again, make sure you and the person exchanging promise rings understand
what the ring will symbolize. They should be given genuinely and sincerely,
with all parties being clear on the promise that has been made and received.
Which finger you wear a promise ring on depends entirely on what type
of pledge you are making and in some cases – the type of ring.
For instance, a Claddagh ring can be worn several different ways:
- Worn on the right hand with the heart facing outward – it means
that the wearer’s heart is free.
- Worn on the right hand with the heart turned inward – it means
that the wearer’s heart is taken.
- Worn on the left hand, it means that the wearer has made a promise
of love and fidelity.
Please click here to read the “The
#1 Promise Ring Guide” for more insight on promise
ring etiquette -- including:
- Promise
Rings
Choose from the wide selection of Comfort Fit promise rings and bands
at prices to fit every budget! This merchant carries a gorgeous selection
of sophisticated styles in white and yellow gold.
- Promise Rings
To express your promise of love, devotion and commitment to her - let
us help you encapsulate it all into one with a Mondera Promise Ring.
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