A promise for the future; a symbol of commitment. A promise ring can make a beautiful proposal piece or can be given at any time as a precious token of affection.
Below, we answer some of your most asked promise ring questions and share some of our favourite romantic pieces.
What is a promise ring?
A promise ring – sometimes called a ‘pre-engagement ring’ or ‘proposal ring’ – is a ring given to signify commitment.
If you’re unsure of what engagement ring to chose or know that you and your partner would like to choose a ring together, a token, proposal or promise ring offers all the joy of a proposal while allowing you and your loved one to find an engagement ring together.
Our promise rings represent a pledge of love, to be worn as a placeholder ring or simply gifted as a delicate memento of affection.
A promise ring is a great option if you don't want to propose empty-handed, and it can go on to become a treasured reminder of the chapters of your love story.
The history of promise rings
Promise rings date all the way back to the Late Middle Ages, and hold one of the most romantic meanings in jewellery history. Then called ‘posy’ rings – after the French word poésie, which meant ‘poetry’ or ‘poem’ – they were given as lovers’ gifts and often inscribed with quotes. Popular phrases included “Yours only”, “Joy without end”, “Faithful to one” and “Let liking last.”
Giving a promise ring as a pre-engagement ring is a more recent development. Often, a partner would like to choose their own engagement ring or have the experience of choosing one together. The promise ring can act as a placeholder, something to give when you propose as a token of your love and affection.
How to pick a promise ring
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to picking promise rings, though our most popular promise rings tend to be delicate and dainty, minimal pieces that can later be layered with an engagement and wedding rings to create a 'ceremonial stack'.
Which finger does a promise ring go on?
A promise ring can be worn on any finger you like, though they're typically worn on the ring finger. If a promise ring is given as a precursor to an engagement ring, it traditionally would be worn on the left hand.
Once you have picked your engagement ring, you can switch your promise ring to the ring finger of your right hand or add it to a bridal stack alongside your engagement ring and wedding band.
Promise rings for men
We often get asked if men can wear a promise ring, and the answer is of course yes! Pieces like our Driftwood Ring, with its thin, textured band, would make a beautiful proposal ring for him.
Matching promise rings
Many couples want to be able to celebrate their engagement together, with both partners wearing a ring to symbolise their love and commitment.
Our infinity twig rings – Hawthorn Bark Ring and Hawthorn Twig Band – feature an infinity circle with no beginning and no end, the perfect symbol of happiness.
Promise rings for her
Searching for the perfect promise ring? Here are some of our favourites.
A promise of things to come., sealed with a single classic diamond. Inspired by the wild beauty of nature, Chupi modelled the band after a hawthorn twig she found in Wicklow, creating a uniquely faceted texture cast in solid gold.
Perfect for: If you want to gift a promise ring with the magic of a diamond, this is the perfect piece. Delicate enough to be incorporated into a ring stack, this piece sits beautifully on the ring finger.
Set with a sparkling classic diamond and flanked by two classic diamonds, each stone represents the words ‘dreamers of dreams’, a reminder to keep working towards yours.
Perfect for: Marking all that you have accomplished together, and all your dreams for the future. If your partner loves colour, these beautiful rings are also available featuring a striking emerald or sapphire.
Grey Diamond Hope & Magic Ring
Two tiny grey diamonds sparkle with hope and magic, set in a solid 14k gold band, cast from a tiny twig taken from a beautiful hawthorn tree.
Perfect for: Celebrating the adventures you’ve been on as well as the hope for things to come. The sparkling gems will remind you of where you started as well as the journey that is waiting for you.
Edwardian Hawthorn Half Eternity Diamond Ring
Eternity rings have been worn since ancient Egypt, and so are the perfect symbol of eternal love.
An elegant piece, our Edwardian Eternity ring is crafted with our signature hawthorn twig band paired with sparkling diamonds, an delicate combination of beauty and strength.
Perfect for: Lovers of classic, timeless design. This ring will also pair beautifully with a wedding band, as part of a bridal ring stack.
Planning a proposal? Book a virtual engagement ring appointment or visit our flagship Dublin store. Our dedicated team can help you find the perfect ring.
