When it comes to romantic jewelry, one of the most asked questions is about the difference between a promise ring vs engagement ring. While both symbolize love and commitment, a promise ring represents a meaningful vow or devotion without always implying marriage, whereas an engagement ring is a clear declaration of intent to marry.
Still wondering how they’re different? Keep reading to find out.
Difference Between Promise Ring vs Engagement Ring?
An engagement ring is a declaration of intent to marry, symbolizing a clear commitment to a future together as a married couple. In contrast, a promise ring signifies a heartfelt vow of love or devotion without necessarily implying marriage, making it a more flexible and personal symbol of commitment.
| Aspect | Promise Ring | Engagement Ring |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Symbol of love, commitment, or a special promise—doesn’t always imply marriage. | Formal declaration of intent to marry. |
| History | Roots in Roman era; later seen as “posy” and Victorian “acrostic” rings. | Medieval European tradition; diamond engagement rings popularized after the 15th century. |
| Design | Usually simpler and understated; minimal bands or small gemstone accents. | Often more elaborate with larger gemstones; solitaires, halos, vintage styles. |
| When Given | Anytime to mark a special promise or relationship milestone. | At the marriage proposal. |
History of Promise Ring
Its history can be traced back to the 2nd century. During this period, Roman men would present the ring to their partners as a promise of marriage. The piece was also well-known in England during the 15th and 17th centuries. It was called the posy ring, and the shank was often engraved with romantic poems. The acrostic ring from the Victorian era, which featured words like ‘dearest’ is another example of gemstone promise rings in the early centuries.
History of Engagement ring
Initially, it was created from materials like copper, bone, iron, flint and ivory; and was given to the going-to-be bride as a symbol of ownership. Its meaning only changed in 860 AD, when Pope Nicholas-I stated that a gold ring should be given to showcase a man’s intention to marry a woman.
Interestingly, the fine diamond engagement ring was first created when the Archduke of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy. It featured several rows of diamond accents that were presented in the shape of an ‘M’. Over a period of time, the engagement ring evolved as a symbol of love and commitment to marriage. Currently, it can be found in a variety of designs featuring colorful jewels.
Decoding the design
When comparing the design of a promise vs engagement ring, the difference becomes more noticeable.
Promise ring
Traditional promise rings are typically defined by their simplicity. But the promise rings available today can be found in a number of styles. This includes everything from elegant solitaires to bold and romantic vintage designs.
Engagement ring
These rings are usually quite ornate in terms of the overall design, size of gemstones used, etc. And while solitaires are the most sought-after choice, styles like the halo, three-stone, Toi et Moi (two-stone) and vintage-inspired engagement rings are also extremely popular.
Also Read: How To Check Ring Size At Home
What do they mean?
Promise ring
At its core, the promise ring is considered a declaration of one’s love and commitment. However, its true significance is generally unique to each relationship. For some couples, it is a show of fidelity, and for others, it symbolizes the intent to get engaged eventually.
Also Read: how much should a promise ring cost
Engagement ring
This ring is an official statement made to the world that the couple is together and a wedding is on the cards.
Also Read: How much should you spend on an Engagement Ring
When are they given?
Promise ring
There is no set timeline for when a promise ring is presented. However, it is usually given a year into the relationship.
Engagement ring
The engagement ring is typically given when the partner is ready to make the relationship official and take it to the next stage, i.e., marriage.
There you have it! Both the promise and engagement rings might look similar, but the sentiment and intention behind them do vary. Now that you know what they both mean, we hope you’ll be able to make a more informed decision.
Price
Promise rings usually cost an average of $ 400, while engagement rings cost between $ 3,756 and $ 5,500. Therefore, the basic cost difference is huge.
Given that promise rings are simple, they usually cost much less than engagement rings. Promise rings at Angara cost between $139 and $25969 while engagement rings go up to $59319. The customization of the metal as well as gemstone carat weight and quality can reduce or increase the price for both promise rings and engagement rings. Also, the more complex the design, the more expensive the final product will be.
There you have it! While promise rings and engagement rings may look similar, the sentiment and intention behind them differ. Now that you know what a promise ring vs engagement ring means, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision about which one suits your relationship best.
Happy Shopping!
FAQs
1. Can you wear a promise ring and engagement ring together on the same hand?
There is no rule for a promise ring and it entirely depends on the wearer. It can be worn on any finger on any hand. While traditionally an engagement ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand, the promise ring can go on any finger. You can wear both the rings together on the same finger if they complement well. Or else, the promise ring can go on a different finger of your left or right hand and allow your engagement ring to get its own spotlight.
2. Do promise rings look different than engagement rings?
Yes, promise rings look distinctively different from engagement rings as they are much simpler and less expensive. Engagement rings have elaborate designs and have bigger diamonds or precious gems on them. Promise rings are less flashy, usually a plain band or a ring with smaller gems.
3. Is a promise ring an engagement ring?
A promise ring is not the same as an engagement ring as they have distinct meanings. A promise ring can have any meaning that the couple decides and the engagement ring has only one meaning commitment to getting married. The engagement ring represents that you are definitely planning a marriage and a promise ring can be for any small or big promise.
