What was once a rarity, promise rings for men are now gaining traction as more and more young couples are making a commitment to each other beyond cohabitation. Whether you’re looking to get a promise ring for the special man in your life or just curious as to why men would wear such a rings, this article is here to answer all your questions. We’ll dive into the history of promise rings, explore the various designs available, and more.
What is a Promise Ring?
A promise ring is a symbol of commitment between two people. Historically, these rings were exchanged between couples as a token of their love and affection; the act was similar to an engagement, but without the legal implications. Promises rings were typically thought of as an exclusively female investment, but that has changed in recent years with more men wearing them and giving them to their partners.
The History Behind Men’s Promise Rings
The history of promise rings for men is one that is steeped in legend and tradition. While the exact origin of these rings is unknown, it is believed that their popularity dates back to the 15th century. During this time, noblemen would wear these rings to express their loyalty and love to their betrotheds. Legend has it that King Henri II of France wore a promise ring to proclaim his endless love for his wife Anne Boleyn in 1553.
Fast-forward to the 19th century, and the use of promise rings transitioned from romantic gestures to ones of moral purity. During this time, a form of a promise ring would be presented to young women who were pledging their virginity until marriage. Once again, men’s promise rings would remain relatively uncommon until more recently.
Types of Promise Rings for Men
When looking for the perfect ring to symbolize your commitment, there are a few types of rings to choose from.
Classic Gold Bands
The classic gold band is one of the most popular types of rings men are choosing today. These rings come in a variety of metals, from pure yellow gold to titanium, and are often embellished with diamonds. A classic gold band is a timeless option for a man’s promise ring as it is both classic and understated.
Unique Designs
If you’re looking to make a statement with your promise ring, then opting for a unique design is the way to go. From simple knot rings to intricate Celtic styles, there are plenty of options for men’s promise rings that are out of the box and unique.
Modern Materials
More and more men are opting for modern materials when it comes to their promise rings. Popular materials such as wood, tungsten, and even ceramic are becoming increasingly popular. Whether you’re looking for something edgy or something a little more understated, modern materials often provide a great middle ground.
Alternative Metals
If you’re looking for something a little more affordable than a gold band, then consider opting for an alternative metal. Options such as silver, cobalt, and palladium are becoming increasingly popular and offer a great alternative to traditional metals. And you won’t need to sacrifice on style either – many alternative metal rings come with a fashionable finish.
Caring for A Promise Ring
Once you’ve chosen or received a promise ring, it’s important to take steps to make sure the ring stays looking its best. As with any piece of jewelry, exposure to skin oils, lotions, soaps, and chemicals can cause the finish on the metals to wear. Therefore, it’s imperative to take the ring off when performing activities which involve any of these substances.
As for cleaning the ring itself, a soft cloth should be used to buff the finish. If there are any tough build-ups on the ring, it’s best to take it to a professional jeweler to get clean. Never use any abrasive materials to clean the ring, as this can damage the finish.
Conclusion
Promise rings for men are becoming increasingly popular as men look to express their commitment to their partner. There are a variety of designs, materials, and styles to choose from, from classic gold bands to modern materials. And, once you’ve chosen the ring, make sure to take steps to care for it in order to preserve its finish.
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