What is a Promise Ring?

From which finger to wear it on to the cost, read our guide to promise rings, including meanings, traditions, and more!

Between promise rings, purity rings, commitment rings, pre-engagement rings, and beyond, the confusion around what a promise ring means is totally understandable. What's the purpose of a promise ring? What finger does it go on? Are they just for women, or are there promise rings for men too? So. Many. Questions. That's why we are breaking down what you need to know about the meaning of promise rings.

What Is a Promise Ring?

A promise ring is a ring given from one person to another in a romantic relationship to signify their fidelity and commitment, often (but not always) preceding an engagement. At its most essential, giving a promise ring symbolizes one partner's devotion to the relationship, and accepting the ring does so for the recipient.

Promise Ring Meaning

As the name suggests, promise rings represent a promise made between two people, but the specific, personal meaning can differ from couple to couple. The appeal of the promise ring is derived largely from the many meanings it can represent. Many couples give or wear promise rings specifically to signify a future engagement, while others do so as more of a general symbol of devotion to one another.

You may even think of promise rings as similar to the mid-century tradition of giving your high-school sweetheart your class ring or pin. Now you're more than just 'dating’ - there's a physical symbol of the relationship to show the outside world.

Is a Promise Ring the Same as a Purity Ring?

Sometimes, but not always. When Joe Jonas told Details in a 2008 interview that he and his brothers' rings symbolized, "a promise to ourselves and to God that we'll stay pure 'till marriage," promise rings became synonymous with purity rings.

Sometimes people have gotten the terminology confused. When you talk about abstinence—and a ring is given by a parent to a child, or to oneself—it's called a purity ring. Promise rings, on the other hand, are typically given as a token of commitment within the confines of a romantic relationship.

Promise Ring Timing and Etiquette

Although promise rings are not synonymous with wedding rings, they shouldn't be treated lightly. So, you should only give or wear a promise ring when you're ready for the commitment.

The rise in popularity of promise rings echoes a growing trend for couples to happily cohabit and/or marry later in life. While they may not be ready—or even want—to commit to marriage, a promise ring denotes that their commitment extends beyond casually dating or just living together.

Are They Just for Women—Or Are There Men's Promise Rings Too?

When you hear "promise ring," your mind might immediately think of a man giving one to a woman. But guy promise rings are quite common. Before getting married in 2018, both Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth wore promise rings. Some couples give promise rings to each other. Other times one person will give their partner one to pledge their commitment and demonstrate how much they value the relationship. The point is, anyone can give or wear a promise ring.

What Finger Does a Promise Ring Go On?

Which finger—or even which hand—you wear your promise ring on is entirely up to you. Promise rings can be worn on any finger. The most common way to wear a promise ring is on the ring finger—on the left hand if you're not married, and on the right hand if you are married. 

What Should a Promise Ring Look Like?

In terms of style, anything goes when it comes to promise rings. There are no rules or requirements here. Popular promise ring themes and styles include hearts or intertwined designs to represent a couple's union, floral-inspired diamond bands, as well as bands with a cluster of stones. 

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 Black River Diamond, promise rings can be whatever your style fits your desire, and typically range in price from $250 to $2,000. 

Where to Buy a Promise Ring

Your favorite local jewelry store is the best place to start your search for a symbolic sparkler for your significant other. You can always browse our website or stop in the store.

How to Give a Promise Ring

Another thing there's no hard-and-fast rule for? How to give a promise ring. It doesn't come with the same traditional expectations of an elaborate, planned proposal where the proposer gets down on one knee. Promise rings are most often given as a birthday, Valentine's Day, Sweetest Day or holiday gift. Even a romantic dinner for two is the perfect place for this meaningful exchange. 

What Happens to the Ring if You Break Up?

While promise rings are intended to signify a lifelong vow, things happen and relationships change. In this case, even if the pledge is rescinded, promise rings aren't always returned. In short? It depends on the nature of the breakup.

What Happens After a Promise Ring?

For many couples, promise rings do precede an engagement. If you're ready to upgrade from a promise to a proposal, check out our beautiful engagement rings.