Symbolizing a promise or vow, promise rings for men can have a number of different implications. A promise ring can refer to a purity ring that is worn to signify that a person will abstain from sexual relations until marriage; it can be a pre-engagement ring that symbolizes a person’s commitment in an exclusive relationship with another person, or it can symbolize any other kind of promise made between two people.
Meanings of promise rings:
Some of the promise rings given by men or women can have engravings, diamonds or other jewels, but any kind of ring can represent a vow or promise, such as:
- I will return to you
- I will be faithful to you
- I love you
- I will keep a promise I made to you
- I will keep a secret for you
- I’m, not ready to be engaged, but I do want to marry you some day
- I will save my purity and virginity
- We are best friends
- I will always be there for you
- You are my one and only
- I promise to abstain from a bad habit or vice (such as drinking, gambling, smoking etc).
- I promise to replace this ring with a more expensive one when I can afford it.
These are some of the promises that can be symbolized by a promise ring. If you give someone a promise ring, you must make sure that they understand and agree to the promise the ring symbolizes.
Where do I wear a promise ring?
Where and when you wear a promise ring depends on your particular situation and the nature of your promise. Usually, promise rings are worn at all times to remind the person of the promise they have made and their dedication to this vow. If the ring symbolizes friendship or another non-romantic promise, it can be worn on any finger, even the thumb.
If the promise ring symbolizes a romantic vow or is a pre-engagement or purity ring, it is usually worn on the left hand ring finger. Because a promise ring is often worn on this finger, band-style rings are best avoided so that the ring doesn’t look like a wedding ring.
What do promise rings for men look like?
For pre-engagement and purity rings, an engraved message or that date the promise was made is often used either on the outside or the inside of the ring, reminding the ring-wearer of the promise he has made. Gems and other jewels are not traditionally incorporated into men’s rings, so an appropriate engraving can replace the meaning and importance these jewels would carry.
How to choose a promise ring
If you know the man you are buying a ring for well, it will be easier to choose promise ring he will like. There are a wide range of styles, material and designs so it is best to have some idea of his tastes before you buy the ring. Many men prefer not to have jewels, but there are tasteful men’s rings with diamonds inset with men in mind, as well as onyx rings (a black gem) that men are more likely to approve of.
Before you rush into buying a promise ring, make sure that the man you are buying it for will agree to the promise and shares the same feelings as you do. If you suspect the person may not be ready to make a significant promise to you, rather wait before buying him a promise ring. You want the promise to be genuine and this will only be the case if the man you are buying it for shares your sentiments.