A promise ring is almost always suited to any stage of a relationship or friendship, whereas an engagement ring is something to be carefully considered as it is a direct proposition of marriage. Whatever you want or wherever you are in your life, there is always a ring to mark your commitment.
Since both rings symbolize love, unity, and eternal commitment, you can use a promise ring as an engagement ring if it's the right choice for you and your partner.
The Difference Between a Promise Ring and an Engagement Ring
While an engagement ring usually features a center diamond or simulated diamond, promise rings are usually less flashy in style. They may feature smaller accents or birthstones for symbolism. They may also just feature a plain band without any flashy details.
There's no real etiquette or rules around giving a promise ring. It isn't a proposal. It doesn't necessarily signify a new period in the relationship, and so it can be given when it's comfortable to do so.
Generally speaking, a promise ring symbolizes an outward expression of a commitment between two people in a relationship. Accepting and wearing a promise ring means you share the same feelings and want to take your relationship to the next level. Oftentimes promise rings are given before engagement rings.
Traditionally, no. You don't have to drop the knee when presenting a promise ring, as it's not quite as significant as an engagement. Getting down on one knee might also be confusing for your partner if they take it as a marriage proposal. However, that doesn't mean you can't make it special.
While engagement rings are generally given to only one half of a couple, promise rings are often worn by both parties. Promise rings differ from engagement rings and wedding bands in many ways, including appearance.
A promise ring signifies a serious commitment to another individual. It is often a gift that precedes an engagement ring, though that isn't necessarily always the case. Giving this ring symbolizes a devotion to the relationship while outwardly acknowledging the devotion and commitment that it stands for.
How Much Should a Promise Ring Cost? There are no rules or guidelines around how much to spend on promise rings, but it's usually less than an engagement ring. At Stambaugh Jewelers, promise rings can be whatever you style fits your desire, and typically range in price from $199 to $2,000.
If you get an engagement ring, there are several options for what to do with your promise ring. You can wear your promise ring on your right hand, on a different finger, on a chain or keep it as a fashion piece.
Which finger is a promise ring worn on? A promise ring can be worn on the ring finger of either hand. If it is given and accepted as a symbol of future commitment, it is typically worn on the left hand.
Typically, we'd recommend waiting for at least six months before you give or receive a promise ring. Whenever you are ready to exchange these, be very clear about the ring's purpose and whether you're ready to uphold the promise that has just been made.
Sometimes promise rings can be used as engagement rings.
They symbolize love and commitment among those who love one another. It is not rare that they are the seal of a serious relationship and represent the will to stay together for a lifetime. In this sense, promise rings are pre-engagement rings.
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 a hugely popular choice for promise rings due to their similar appearance to diamonds, as are morganite rings.
Though they are usually associated with teenagers and “young love,” promise rings can be given to anyone at any age.
The most popular time to give a promise ring is either before or after getting engaged. It can be seen as a way of declaring your intentions to marry and shows how committed you are to each other. It can also be given afterwards as part of the engagement process or even as a first-anniversary gift.
Should a promise ring be worn all the time? Most people like to wear a promise ring all the time and not take it off. Some people prefer to wear theirs occasionally. As a couple, you can decide that together.
A promise ring is almost always suited to any stage of a relationship or friendship, whereas an engagement ring is something to be carefully considered as it is a direct proposition of marriage. Whatever you want or wherever you are in your life, there is always a ring to mark your commitment.
How long should you wear a promise ring? In most cases, promise rings are given once a couple has been dating for about six months to a year. It's common for people to wait around a year before replacing a promise ring with an engagement ring.
Most often, however, unmarried women who wear a ring on their left ring finger wear it as a symbol of a promise. So for this special little finger, we recommend the best of our romantic engagement and wedding rings that are just as precious as the occasion!
This leaves many wondering which finger their new ring should go on or if they should even be wearing their engagement ring to the ceremony. It's perfectly normal, however, to wear both the engagement ring and the wedding ring during your wedding ceremony – how you wear them is up to you.
"This ring is a symbol of my love for you and my plans to marry you." "Until we are joined in marriage, this ring is a testament to my commitment to our relationship." "A promise solidifies the bond between two people. With this promise ring, I vow to honor that bond forever."
Why the left knee, specifically? According to Keith Willard, a wedding officiant and wedding planner, most people get down on the left knee because they are right-handed. Getting down on the left knee allows the proposer to position themselves properly and open the box easily.
If a promise is broken, it is proper to return the promise ring just as a couple would return an engagement ring in the case of a broken engagement. If neither individual wants to keep the ring it could be sold and the money split.
Metals - While sterling silver and yellow or white gold are the most common promise ring metals, you've got lots of other choices. Tungsten carbide rings are more durable and scratch-resistant than other precious metals, making them a great choice for people who work with their hands.