The answer to this question is a little bit complicated. Essentially, a promise ring signifies commitment to someone and can be given for any reason.

For example, a couple might choose to give one another a promise ring to show their commitment to monogamy until marriage. This can be helpful for couples with different faiths or financial situations that make an engagement ring impractical.

They’re not just for women

Many factors play into whether or not a couple decides to give (or receive) a promise ring. Some of these factors include: finances, age, and even geography. For example, a couple in medical school may not be financially ready to start planning for an engagement yet. Similarly, couples that are still on professional tours abroad might prefer to hold off on a commitment until they’re back home in the States.

Historically, rings like these were given as promises of friendship or chastity, often with a specific letter (such as a diamond representing the letter D) engraved to symbolize something significant to the recipient. Acrostic rings, which use gemstones to spell out words, were also popular in the Victorian and Georgian eras.

Regardless of what a couple chooses to symbolize with these rings, they are a wonderful way for a partner to express their love and commitment to one another. They can be worn on the ring finger or anywhere else they choose, although most people opt to wear them on their left hand, as it is traditionally associated with engagement rings.

They’re a symbol of commitment

Often, people gift promise rings to their loved ones as an affirmation of love and commitment. They may also be given as pre engagement gifts. This is especially true for high school sweethearts who understand that they are not yet ready to get married, but envision marriage with their partner further down the road.

A promise ring can also be worn as a symbol of purity or chastity, though this is less common these days. Some men wear these as a way to stay abstinent until they find the right woman for them, and others simply want to be clear about their intentions with their partners.

There are no rules about when or why to give someone a promise ring, but it is important that both parties are on the same page about what this means for their relationship. If a man or woman isn’t ready for this level of commitment, a simple stainless steel band can still be an elegant and meaningful choice.

They’re less strict than engagement and wedding rings

Traditionally, promise rings for couple are given as a sign of commitment to chastity until marriage. This was popularized by the Jonas Brothers, and many people use these pieces to express a vow to abstain from sex until they get married.

They can also be worn to symbolize a commitment to a specific value or cause that the two parties agree on. This is often the case with religious commitments, or to celebrate a shared interest such as a favorite hobby or sport.

Typically, men’s promise rings are more minimalist in design than engagement or wedding rings, although they can be studded with gemstones or have intricate carvings on them. Some even have phrases etched into them like “I love you” or other personal messages. Because they are less expensive, you can buy one for him without breaking your budget. They are also a great way to commemorate milestones in your relationship. They can be presented in a public setting, or privately at home or at your favorite restaurant.

They’re a great surprise

One way to show your guy how much you care is by giving him a promise ring. You can even get creative and plan a special day where you present it to him. Whether it’s a romantic serenade or a surprise trip to a place that holds sentimental value for the both of you, this will be a moment to remember.

Engravings are a great way to make the ring truly your own and elevate its meaning. This can include a significant date, your initials, or a short message that encapsulates your commitment to one another.

Men can also wear a promise watch or keychain to keep a reminder of their commitment close to heart, and they can be as intricate or as simple as you want them to be. It’s all about expressing your love and commitment to him in the best way that you can.