Do Guys Wear Promise Rings?
Promise rings have gained some traction as of late as an additional vow of commitment in a relationship that takes place prior to a formal engagement. While they aren’t the norm, the number of couples choosing to add a promise ring (not to be confused with a purity ring) before their engagement ring is growing, and not in an Arrested Development pre-engaged way. Is a promise ring right for you? What if you’re a guy? Let’s find out!
What Is a Promise Ring?
Okay, gratuitous Arrested Development reference aside, it is kind of like a pre-engagement. A promise ring is basically a promise of commitment to the other person. It communicates a level of exclusivity that’s greater than just dating and acts as a waypoint on the road to engagement.
Now, some people give promise rings for different reasons. Unlike engagement rings, the cultural expectations of a promise ring aren’t super defined, so couples sometimes import other meanings onto them. Generally, though, they’re an expression of commitment, and they are usually worn on the left hand — at least until an engagement ring takes its place.
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The Journey from Promise Ring to Engagement Ring
The path from dating to marriage often includes several meaningful pieces of jewelry. While a promise ring symbolizes commitment, it’s distinct from an engagement ring in both style and significance. These pre-engagement rings tend to be simpler and more understated, making them perfect for everyday wear. Instead of large, eye-catching diamond solitaires, they usually feature smaller gemstones. Birthstones are another popular choice for promise rings. These commitment rings can be made from sterling silver, gold and nearly any other material imaginable.
When the time comes for an engagement ring, many couples choose to move the promise ring to another finger or hand. This progression of jewelry reflects the growing commitment between partners. Some couples even incorporate their promise rings into their wedding bands later on, creating a beautiful symbol of their journey together.
Do Guys Wear Them?
This is actually a really interesting question. The short answer? Yes, guys do wear promise rings. It’s actually common for both people to wear promise rings, unlike engagement rings, where a smaller percentage of guys do, but many don’t.
While this is just anecdotal evidence, it’s our experience that guys are actually more likely to wear promise rings than engagement rings. Now, you could also make the case that guys who wear promise rings are more open to wearing engagement rings, which is probably true. Bottom line is, whatever you feel like doing or wearing, just do it! Some men wear promise rings, and some don’t. And that’s okay!
If you think you might want to give a promise ring to your boyfriend but are unsure how he’ll feel about it — ask! If this is someone you can see a future engagement and marriage with, you shouldn’t be afraid to ask about their preferences. A promise ring is just the beginning of a long relationship, and it’s important to establish good communication early.
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Are Promise Rings Necessary?
Well, no rings are necessary per se. Technically, all rings are a product of convention, which isn’t a bad thing at all, more so just a fact. So, no, promise rings aren’t necessary. Should you get one, though? Maybe.
Promise rings tend to be most appealing to people who aren’t in a place to get married soon but want to express a desire for greater commitment. For this reason, promise rings are used more often among younger couples who, for whatever reason, can’t get married in the immediate future. For example, high school sweethearts often exchange promise rings as a vow to get married later in their lives.
Who wants a really long engagement anyway? We’ve never met anyone who was engaged for years and had a great time of it. If that doesn’t bother you, then you likely don’t need a promise ring. If, however, you know you want to be with someone but don’t want a long engagement, a promise ring adds an extra step and shortens the engagement process itself.
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Choosing the Perfect Promise Ring
When shopping for a promise ring, remember that it’s more than just a piece of jewelry. It symbolizes your love and commitment, so choose something of high quality. Choose a ring made from precious metals to ensure longevity, and consider incorporating meaningful gemstones. You could also add engravings like your initials, the date you and your partner met, etc. Jewelers like Modern Gents offer a wide range of affordable, high-quality promise rings that rival the beauty and durability of higher-end fine jewelry pieces.
When it comes to ring styles, there are a lot to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an understated symbol of commitment or something a bit fancier, you should have no problem finding a ring look that works for both you and your partner.
Okay, But Where Do You Wear It?
Well, if you’re in Arrested Development, you wear it on your toe. Really going back to that well, but it’s a fantastic show, and you should watch it.
Okay, but actually, what finger does a promise ring go on? Most guys tend to choose to wear a promise ring on their right ring finger. Of course, you can wear it wherever you like, but the right hand does seem to be the most popular option for guys. Other choices include the left ring finger (which is a more popular option for women, it seems) or around your neck on a chain.
While strict traditions tend to dictate where people wear their engagement and wedding rings, there’s more flexibility with promise rings. It’s up to the wearer to choose the location that feels best. With this type of ring, the meaning of a promise is more important than rules about what finger to wear the ring on.
What Finger Does a Promise Ring Go on?
Promise rings are still relatively new, and their norms aren’t fully defined. If you want to get one, the meaning and standards are up to you, so find ones that you like and that work!