What is a Pre-Engagement Ring?

Pre-engagement rings are for some people a huge step in their commitment to each other before they can become engaged. These rings are bought by couples looking to take things slow, are very young, those who are short on cash for a wedding, or those who aren’t ready to take the next step to engagement. A pre-engagement ring is a wonderful gesture of your intent to commit your future with your loved one.

What does a Pre-engagement Ring mean?

A pre-engagement ring is a symbol of love and commitment between a couple which sits just below engagement. By giving someone or accepting this ring, you are making a commitment as a couple to marry in the future. This pledge comes without a time for a wedding or engagement, allowing you both to be patient until the time is right. What this ring does is create an understanding between you both that you’re in your relationship long term and aim to be together forever.

History of the Pre-engagement Ring

 The concept of the pre-engagement ring has appeared at several points in history. One example is the posy rings in 16th century England, which were engraved with romantic poetry. Acrostic rings were also an example of a pre-engagement ring, featuring a word spelled out in gemstones. For example, the word “regard” would comprise of a ruby, emerald, garnet, amethyst, another ruby and a diamond. 

During the 1970s, the phrase “promise ring” entered the public consciousness, which is similar to a pre-engagement ring.

Difference between a Pre-engagement Ring and a Promise Ring

Pre-engagement rings are very similar to promise rings, because both are considered placeholders for the engagement ring to come. Whether a couple decides to name the ring a promise ring or a pre-engagement ring is up to them. If you aren’t planning on getting married soon, it may be worth calling it a promise ring. 

One minor difference between the two types of rings is the finger on which they’re worn. Because pre-engagement rings are considered placeholders, they tend to go on the ring finger of the left hand where the engagement ring will go, eventually. A promise ring can be worn on any finger, because you aren’t planning on getting married in the next few years. To avoid any potential confusion, it is usually worn on the ring finger of the right hand.

Couples who buy a Pre-engagement Ring

 There are various instances where a pre-engagement ring is perfect for a couple:

• High school sweethearts: Most students who leave high school aren’t in any position to get married, however they might feel that the boyfriend or girlfriend they have is someone they want to marry later. 

• Graduates: When leaving university, graduates may not have the money to purchase the ideal engagement ring or budget for the dream wedding day. A pre-engagement ring can be used to make a commitment together as they start to build careers and save money.

• Couples wanting commitment without marriage: Marriage isn’t for everyone. While some may not want to get married at all, others might be open to the idea later down the line. Commitment may still be important to these couples, so a pre-engagement ring is a great way to symbolise being in a monogamous relationship.

Celebrities and Pre-engagement Rings

Pre-engagement rings gained popularity in the late 2000s and early 2010s. The rise in popularity can be associated with celebrity couples who have taken that step. Notable names include Jordin Sparks, Teyana Taylor, Selena Gomez and The Jonas Brothers (who also used them as purity rings). One of the brothers, Nick Jonas, famously had a pre-engagement celebration in 2018 with his partner, Priyanka Chopra. 

Types 0f Pre-engagement Rings

So what constitutes a pre-engagement ring? It has to be similar to an engagement ring as it is a placeholder for it and the wedding ring to come. There are certain styles that act as the perfect symbol for the meaning of a pre-engagement.

A heart diamond ring is a perfect way to symbolise your commitment to one another. Heart and diamonds are synonymous with love, making it an ideal choice for a pre-engagement or promise ring. When you make a commitment to stay with someone forever with a heart diamond, your loved one is wearing a ring with the symbol of your heart on it. 

A gemstone diamond ring brings a classic feel to your promise ring. Whether you want to select the birthstone of your loved one, or both of you, or you want to bring that acrostic ring back into fashion, a gemstone ring is a beautiful pre-engagement ring.

Other ideas for pre-engagement rings include a small solitaire diamond ring or a larger gemstone surrounded by a halo of diamonds are perfect for demonstrating the importance that a promise of a future marriage will represent. 

Diamond Heaven is the best place to find a pre-engagement ring for her or for him. Our collection of stunning diamond jewellery is ideal for any commitment. With the 4Cs in mind (Cut, Clarity, Colour and Carat), you can craft your own diamond jewellery to display your commitment.  Shop online today or book an appointment with our team who will be happy to help you find your perfect ring.