- Promise ring
A promise ring is a ring that is indicative of a serious
promise made to oneself or another. In most cases, it's given to a romantic partner to signify a commitment to a monogamous relationship, sometimes as a precursor to anengagement ring .Student s sometimes useclass ring s as promise rings, although this may be less common than in the past.Fact|date=August 2008 A friend may also bestow a promise ring to another friend to signify their loyalty and/or resolve to remain friends forever.Fact|date=August 2008 In other cases, a promise ring may just be purchased for oneself as a reminder of a personal promise.Fact|date=August 2008Promise rings can be worn on any finger, but those symbolizing pre-engagement are generally worn on the leftring finger .History
Promise rings date back to the 16th century. They were also known as friendship rings and illustrations show these rings as early as
1576 AD . In those days, when a man could not afford to get married, he would often buy a promise ring as a placeholder until such time he would be able to effectuate a marriage.During the 20th century, in some instances women would offer men's promise rings to their man because, at the time, he was unable to commission to be wed. It was generally a surprise offering and was something the man could accept or deny. Tradition generally holds that these rings were given by younger couples. This was usually the case because it was normal for the young couple not to have a wealth position that would allow for marriage and children. Nowadays anyone can give a promise ring, regardless of wealth or social status. [Ades, Michael "Beautiful Promise Rings" A True Love Commitment Spring 2002]Designs
Many designs contain the heart symbol and it is symbolic in that the lover dedicates their heart to being with each other. Sterling silver promise rings are also given when the purchaser is unable to afford the precious styles and genuine diamonds. Other designs don't necessarily contain hearts. They are usually simplistic in design and may have diamonds. Many use 3 stone diamond rings (usually smaller in stone size than the engagement three stone) or another classic design. [Ades, Michael "Beautiful Promise Rings" A True Love Commitment Spring 2002]
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