When love is on your mind, it ends up showing in your actions, words and even gifts. From the many mind-boggling options available, there are some that truly offer the best of both beauty and sentiments. The promise ring happens to be one of them.
This is certainly not an ordinary piece of accessory, which is why it’s steadily gaining traction among people, and for good reason.
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Simple and meaningful, the promise ring shows your loved ones what’s really on your mind; a promise made between the two of you that’s meant to last.
Here’s more on what makes it extremely special…
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The Meaning
The simplest way to put it, would be to say that the promise ring is a declaration of one’s commitment. While this is the general definition, its actual meaning and value remain unique to the wearer. In a romantic relationship, the promise ring reflects the exclusivity of the relationship wherein the couple is in a long-term commitment, but doesn’t intend to get married just yet. That said, it can also be given or worn as a symbol of commitment and love for any friend or family member.
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Where Does It Originate From?
The trend of gifting promise rings can be traced back to the biblical days where most countries participated in the practise of arranged marriages. Back then, the individuals weren’t expected to get married right away and usually waited for a few years. Due to this lull period, the rings were exchanged as proof of the arrangement.
Also read: Which Hand and Finger Does a Wedding Ring Go On?
During the ancient Roman era, men would give their partners promise rings instead of engagement rings. According to the law during this time, people had to wait for a certain period before they were deemed fit to marry. The ring was considered to be a promise of eventual marriage.
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This piece was also incredibly famous in England. They were called posy rings at the time and were characterized by the romantic poems that were engraved on the shank.
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Eventually, the posy ring went out of style during the Victorian era. In its place came the acrostic ring which would spell out words like ‘love’ to show the connection and devotion between two people.
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The trend died down after this period but since the last ten years, people have been reveling in its fluid symbolism.
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Which Finger Do You Wear It?
Traditionally, it is worn on the ring finger of the left hand to symbolize commitment. Some people shift the promise ring to the ring finger of their right hand once they get married. That said, at the end of the day it is totally up to you and there are no set rules for wearing this piece.
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Not Just for Women
No, the promise ring isn’t gender exclusive. It can be given to anyone special, just like the way you can gift a box of delicious chocolates to your favourite person.
Read more: How to Upgrade an Engagement Ring
Parting Note
The very idea of love and its parameters keep changing. And as always, the symbols of love are adapting to this change. The promise ring isn’t restricted specifically to romance; in fact, it’s a contemporary way of making a promise to anyone important to you. You can surprise your mom with one, or gift it to your best friend; in either case, the promise ring will never lose its true essence.
Also Read: How to Pick an Engagement Ring: Everything You Need to Know
