Do you know the difference between a promise ring vs engagement ring? If not, you should read further. We have a lot of interesting facts to share with you, including the history of promise rings and what they can mean. Many people associate promise rings with marriage, but they can also signify other things. So, without further ado, here are the differences between promise ring vs engagement ring.

History of promise rings

Even though it seems like the trend of promise rings is new, it is, in fact, an ancient habit. Ancient Greeks used promise rings to pledge that they will keep something or someone in their minds forever. And while a lot of time has passed since the Ancient Greek’s days, the promise rings today have almost the exact same meaning. But if a promise ring is about forever and an engagement one is also about forever, how do we solve the promise ring vs engagement ring issue? Well, for starters, “forever” doesn’t necessarily mean marriage.

Promise rings meanings

One of the most popular meanings of a promise ring today refers to marriage, of course. But offering or receiving a promise ring doesn’t mean that you will get married. It means that you are committed to the relationship and accept the possibility of a future marriage sometimes. As you can see, this is very different from “I do”. It is the promise of taking the relationship seriously rather than a promise of marriage.

Besides this meaning, a promise ring can also signify other different things. You can offer your bestie a promise ring so that you will always be there for one another. If you want to offer a promise ring to your significant other without bringing marriage into questions, know that it also means to promise to be monogamous while the relationship lasts. However, make sure that the other knows the difference between a promise ring vs engagement ring.

If your mom has offered you a promise ring, it means that she wants you to stay celibate until marriage or remain substance-free. Yes, promise rings can also mean abstinence or purity. Last, but not least, you can offer a promise ring to yourself. It may sound odd at first, but the promises we tend to break the most are the ones we make to ourselves. If you want a permanent reminder of your goals, offer yourself a promise ring.

Promise ring vs engagement ring

As you can see, there is a big difference between a promise ring vs engagement ring. Besides the meaning, these rings can also be different in terms of design and looks.

Traditionally, an engagement ring features diamonds, as we all know. Promise rings, on the other hand, can have any design and feature any gemstone. In fact, depending on their purpose, we have several ideas for you to try.

Promise ring ideas

If you are looking to offer a promise ring (to somebody dear or to yourself), here are some ideas you might want to try.

Promise ring as pre-engagement

If you want to get promise rings for you and your significant other to show that you are committed to the relationship, why not get birthstones? You can wear a promise ring with their birthstone and they can wear one with yours. This is a romantic and creative idea but, like we said, make sure they know the difference between promise ring vs engagement ring.

Friendship promise rings

Is it your bestie’s birthday and have no idea what to get her? A friendship promise ring is a wonderful idea. Jasper, garnet, and topaz are some of the semi-precious stones that signify friendship. Also, if you want to take this a step further, engrave the promise rings. Your bestie will love you for it.

Monogamous promise rings

A fun fact is that some couples choose to wear monogamous promise rings after getting married. Regardless if you are married or have just started a new relationship, a promise ring can be a great idea. Rubies usually mean monogamy and everlasting love, but it doesn’t mean that you have to follow the tradition. A great idea would be to get promise rings that feature two metals soldered together.

A promise ring for yourself

Because you deserve it. And because we all need reminders of our goals from time to time. Get yourself a powerful ring, like Ana Luisa’s Miruna signet ring below featuring a black onyx gemstone. This way, every time you look at it, you will remember that you have the power to achieve your goals.

black onyx ring

If you liked discovering the difference between promise ring vs engagement ring, make sure to share this article with your friends as well. To discover more unique jewelry pieces, visit Ana Luisa online jewelry store.


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Ruxandra
Ruxandra is a fashion blogger who teaches fashion stumped twenty to thirty somethings how to shop their jewelry boxes for polished new ensembles. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Fashionista, Nylon, and Refinery29.