Promise Rings

Ok, so you have decided to ask your partner to marry you… what’s next?

Well the next big question is what on earth are you going to propose with?! You’ve had a browse on the internet and in some magazines at engagement rings… but you still have no clue.

Let’s face it, it can be pretty intimidating trying to choose between engagement rings. There are so many options to choose from e.g. the gemstone, cut, metal, setting, and engraving. But if you’d like to surprise someone but don’t have a clue what to get them… what options are there?

What is a Promise Ring?

‘Promise rings’; otherwise known as ‘pre-engagement rings’ or ‘friendship rings’ have been used in a variety of ways to signify union, friendship and fidelity. Although these rings have been used as early as AD 1576, they have recently become re-popularised particularly in the USA where they are commonly exchanged as a promise of a lasting future between partners. They were a popular concept between the 16th and 17th centuries and were used in a variety of forms as tokens of friendship, love, fidelity and chastity. There are a whole variety of promise rings such as the scribbling ring’ which was set with rough cut diamonds, and the ‘poesy ring’ which was engraved with sentiments about the person’s partner, this concept has become re-popularised today with engraving modern wedding rings. Promise rings were even used by bishops to indicate their connection with the Holy Spirit. In Turkey, it is quite common for them to use a type of promise ring known as ‘puzzle rings’. These consist of a set of bands often amounting to three or more separate bands which are shaped often in a weaving pattern to form a single interlocking ring. These work together in the same way as a children’s puzzle board and only fit together in a single way.

Why choose a promise ring

Pre-engagement rings can be a fantastic modern way of proposing when you are unsure of your partner’s tastes… without needing to have a big budget. You can choose or commission a simple band or engagement styled ring using less expensive metals and gemstones such as silver, amber, 9ct gold, amethyst, moonstone etc. and have your partner choose an engagement ring at a later date. This is a fantastic way to make sure your partner winds up with an engagement ring they truly love, as they get to make the ultimate decision!

But of course, don’t forget that there are some alternatives, if you feel the ‘promise ring option’ is not the way to go. Try to be observant… consider what their style is and what types of jewellery your partner regularly wears, perhaps something of a similar style might be suitable. Seek the advice of friends and family… just make sure that they won’t ‘give the game away’ if your proposal is a secret! Or… if you feel you need further guidance on deciding upon an engagement ring you could even seek advice from a jewellery design company!