Promise rings have different meanings depending on context. They can be used by a couple who wants to give more uniqueness to their relationship, in which case they function as pre – commitment; they can also symbolize purity and used as a pledge of sexual abstinence until marriage; at other times, they become a device which represents a promise. There are not many rules for their use as these rings can be used on any finger, depending on the intention. In the case of romanticism it is often worn on the ring finger.
This type of ring arises in the sixteenth century in the year 1576. Initially having no promise of commitment, the man gave the woman a friendship ring that symbolized their love until the formal proposal of marriage was made. This could take a while until the age requirement is met or until the boyfriend could financially provide for his future bride. Promise rings used to represent purity first appear in the United States around 1990, a period during which a great movement of sexual abstinence in most Christian churches arises in the country. These rings are also known as chastity rings.
Promise rings are typically used by young people, mainly because these couples do not have financial strength to marry, have children or begin a home. If you’re going to give a ring of this type, make sure your intentions are clear so there is no confusion of any kind. You send it to its recipient paired it with a cute note or deliver it personally. You can easily identify this type of ring because they often are heart-shaped or have other modern designs, sell for very low prices and are consistently made of cheaper metals.