Promise ring vs Engagement ring: The difference you need to know

Being young and in love is an amazing feeling. You’re head-over-heels for your significant other and you want to shout it from the rooftops!
One way to show them how much they mean to you is by giving them a gift. But what kind of gift should you get?

Should you go with a classic like a bouquet, a box of luxury chocolates, or a heartfelt love song? Or should you go big and get them a ring? Not just any ring, though. A promise ring or an engagement ring would show how much you care!

Promise rings and engagement rings are two very different things, but they both represent commitment. Of course, what that commitment means can vary depending on the relationship. For example, an engagement ring usually symbolizes a commitment to marriage, while a promise ring can represent a commitment to anything from friendship to celibacy.

While a promise ring can be a great way to make a promise to your partner and even pop the question, it’s not the same as an engagement ring. Learn the differences between the two from this blog.

What is the meaning of an Engagement Ring: A Ring of Commitment

meaning of an Engagement Ring


Engagement rings are a symbol of love ❤️ and commitment, but their meaning goes much deeper than that. For many couples, engagement rings represent the beginning of a lifelong journey together. Engagement rings are typically much more expensive than promise rings because they are seen as a more significant investment. They are a reminder of the promises made to each other and the bond that will continue to grow stronger over time.

The idea of wearing engagement rings as a sign of love and commitment started with the Ancient Egyptians. They believed that the finger where this jewel was to be worn had a vein connected straight to the heart. This belief is what started the tradition of wearing engagement on the fourth finger of the left hand.

For some couples, the decision to get engaged is a deeply personal one. They may have been together for years and feel ready to take the next step in their relationship. Others may have only recently started dating and feel like they are ready to make a lifetime commitment. No matter what the circumstances are, engagement rings always hold a special meaning for those who wear them.

How about a Princess Cut Diamond Engagement ring or a Cushion Shaped Double Halo Engagement ring? Just Wow! Isn’t it? Even the thought of these engagement rings makes us fall in love with them. Imagine how your partner will feel when you give her this engagement ring.

What is the meaning of a Promise ring: Pre-engagement ring

meaning of a Promise ring: Pre-engagement ring


A promise ring is given as a symbol of commitment or a symbol of commitment to monogamy. It doesn’t necessarily mean that the person receiving the ring is ready to get married. Promise rings can be given for many different reasons, such as a symbol of friendship, fidelity, or chastity. In some cases, promise rings are even given as pre-engagement rings, and both partners wear them. Promise rings tend to be less expensive and have less symbolism associated with them.

Whatever the reason, promise rings are often much more personal and sentimental than engagement rings. In the 16th-century promise rings were called “poise” or “posy” rings. These rings were popular in England and France and given as gifts from one lover to another. Often engraved with romantic poems, these rings signified the wearer’s pledge of devotion. It is recommended that promise rings should only be given after 6 months of being exclusive or if there’s a long-term commitment.

If you’re looking for promise rings, La Joya is a great place to start. They have a wide selection of lab-grown diamonds, so you’re sure to find something you love. Plus, you can browse their selection online, so it’s easy to find the perfect ring for you.

Difference between a Promise ring and an Engagement ring 💍

Difference between a promise ring and an engagement ring
  1. A promise ring doesn’t have to follow any requirement, unlike engagement rings where karats or stones matter.
  2. Promise rings and engagement rings vary differently in terms of intentions. A promise ring can be given as a commitment to friendship, the intent of marriage someday, or a symbol of promise. Whereas an engagement ring signifies taking the big step into marriage together shortly. 
  3. Engagement rings are always worn on the left hand’s ring finger, next to the pinky finger. Promise rings can be worn on any finger. Some people choose to wear their promise rings on their left hand’s ring finger until they get engaged.

Do promise rings look different than Engagement rings

Do promise rings look different than Engagement rings


Promise rings and engagement rings can vary greatly in terms of style and design. Promise rings tend to be more simple and understated, while engagement rings are often more elaborate and showy. Both types of rings typically feature a center diamond or gemstone, which is often flanked by smaller accent stones. Promise rings can be made of different materials like metals plated with silver or gold, wood, or leather.

The setting of the ring (the metal band and setting that holds the stones in place) can also vary but is often a simple metal band or a more ornate setting with pavé-set diamonds. Engagement rings will often be more expensive and elaborate than promise rings, as they are typically worn as a symbol of a more committed relationship.

When is a Promise ring given?

When is a Promise ring given?


There is no right or wrong time to give a promise ring. You can give one early on in a relationship, or after you’re already engaged or married. Promise rings are a symbol of, well, a promise. In any relationship or friendship, you can always make new promises. And a promise ring is a great way to commemorate and celebrate that promise.

It can be typically given after a couple has been dating for a while and they are ready to commit to each other. The promise ring may be exchanged in a private ceremony, or it may be given as part of a larger event such as an anniversary or birthday celebration. The meaning behind the exchange will vary depending on the couple, making it unique for each relationship .

When is an Engagement ring given?

When is an Engagement ring given?


It’s time to take the next step in your relationship and ask your partner to marry you. And that’s the time when you should get an engagement ring. An engagement ring is typically given when a couple is ready to get married. This can vary from a few months to a few years after they start dating. If you’ve found the love of your life, it’s time to get them a stunning engagement ring and pop the question. There’s no set period in a relationship when this should happen, only when both people are ready.

Which ring is right for you: An Engagement ring or a Promise ring 💍

An Engagement ring or a Promise ring


When you are ready to take your relationship to the next level, you may be wondering what kind of ring to give your significant other. There’s a big decision to be made… Do you get a promise ring or an engagement ring? To sum up, here are some things to consider when making your decision:

  • The purpose of an engagement ring is to symbolize your commitment to each other and to signify that you are officially engaged. A promise ring can have a variety of meanings, but it generally signifies a commitment to each other, whether that be a commitment to fidelity, to always be there for each other, or to never give up on each other.
  • The cost of an engagement ring is usually much higher than the cost of a promise ring because an engagement ring is meant to be a lifetime investment. A promise ring can be less expensive, which may be a factor to consider if you are on a budget.
  • The style of the ring is also something to think about. An engagement ring is typically a diamond ring, while a promise ring can be any style you choose. If you are not sure what kind of ring your significant other would prefer, it may be a good idea to ask for their input before making a decision.

However, the decision of which ring to give is up to you and your significant other. Consider what the ring will mean to both of you and choose the one that you feel will best represent your relationship.

The Bottom Line

So are you ready to propose to your significant other? Then you might be at a crossroads about which type of ring to get. Luckily for you, we’ve got the answers you need! And we hope with this blog you know all about the differences between a promise ring and an engagement ring, so that you can choose the perfect ring for your special occasion.
What’s the wait? At La Joya, explore the entire collection of beautifully designed lab-grown diamond rings for your partner 👫.

FAQS On Promise Ring Vs. Engagement Ring

Is it OK to propose with a promise ring?

Yes, you can propose with a promise ring. A promise ring is a symbol of your commitment and love. They are less formal than an engagement ring, but they are still a beautiful way to show your affection.

How long after a promise ring do you get engaged

There is no set time frame for how long you should wait after receiving a promise ring before getting engaged. It is entirely up to the couple to decide when they are ready to take the next step in their relationship. Some couples may wait a few months, while others may wait a few years.

Do both partners wear a promise ring

Promise rings are often given by one partner to the other, sometimes both partners will choose to wear a ring as a symbol of their shared commitment.

What are the rules of a promise ring?

A promise ring is a ring that is given as a symbol of a promise made between two people. The promise can be anything from a commitment to remain celibate until marriage, to a vow to never smoke or drink. There are no set rules for what a promise ring must represent, but it is typically given as a sign of love and commitment.

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Nishit Mehta

Nishit Mehta is a third-generation diamantaire with over 30 years of experience in the diamond and jewelry industry. With vast knowledge and expertise in making jewelry for other jewelers, Nishit has recently decided to expand his brand, La Joya, in the lab-grown diamond jewelry space. His passion for creating exquisite jewelry has made him a trusted name in the industry.