Wedding rings, more specifically the engagement ring, is often seen as the very first commitment between a couples. However there is another type of ring, known as promise rings, which are given before the wedding rings in many cultures and areas. Promise rings are also a symbol of love and commitment to an ongoing relationship.

Wedding rings and promise rings can come in a variety of styles, types and designs. All types of precious metals such as yellow gold, white gold, silver, titanium and even platinum and palladium can be used in designing promise rings and wedding sets.

There is a great deal of history behind both wedding rings and promise rings. The origins of the promise ring date back to the 16th century when men, who didn’t quite have enough money to prove their worthiness to a woman’s father, would give her a promise ring in lieu of an engagement ring until he had enough funds to marry.

Promise rings, unlike the engagement ring of wedding rings and sets, can be given to and by both the man and the woman. In many cultures and areas promise rings worn by the couple are traditional as well as thoroughly modern.

Promise rings are worn on the same hand as wedding rings and also on the exact same finger. For some couples the option for a smaller promise, engagement and wedding ring can make a beautiful collection of stackable rings. These could then be worn as a complete set or in any combination.

Since the rings can be mixed and matched between the wedding rings, engagement ring and the promise ring, there are lots of possible options. Adding an anniversary or eternity ring later on can add even more combinations.

Selecting a design or pattern for the promise ring that will compliment or coordinate with the wedding rings will be important to wear them all together. Many promise rings feature traditional symbols of love such as hearts and intricate types of patterns that can be matched with the wedding set.

For every elaborate promise rings, diamonds that match the wedding rings may be a good option. Of course this isn’t necessary, but three stone rings as well as simple bands do work very well with most wedding rings and sets.