Why Promise Rings Are Trending For 2023
Precious Details: our fortnightly edit of trending fine jewelry and timepieces, plus expert styling advice
The holiday season is traditionally a period for festive proposals, and a flurry of #engaged photos will, no doubt, start flooding your feed over the coming weeks. So what do you do if you don’t feel quite ready, or if the current financial climate means you aren’t able to afford a wedding? “An engagement ring is one of the most significant investments a couple will ever make, but the uncertainty surrounding finances can weigh heavily on some,” says Hamish Shephard, founder of wedding-planner app Bridebook. “That’s why ‘promise’ or ‘commitment’ rings are becoming an increasingly popular choice for today’s engaged couples. They are a symbol of fidelity and commitment, with a more affordable price tag.”
Global unrest and the increased cost of living is seemingly having an impact on romance, with couples having to wait longer before they can afford to splash out on a wedding or an engagement ring. Indeed, according to Bridebook, betrothals are now lasting longer than ever before, which might explain why online searches for ‘promise rings’ are at an all-time high.
“Promise rings are such a special way to say I love you – they’re a sweet spot for showing commitment even if the timing for an official engagement isn’t quite right,” says Emily Wansbrough, senior fine-jewelry buyer at NET-A-PORTER. “Plus, they’re so versatile that you can still wear them as part of your ring-finger stack once you are engaged and married. Alternatively, you can move the promise ring over on to your right hand to start another complementary stack,” she explains.
So, where to start? David Yurman’s distinctive twisted bands are a chic choice, with a real love story behind their design. The New York-based brand was co-founded by David Yurman and his wife Sybil, and the maison’s spiraling bangles and rings are inspired by the first piece of jewelry he ever made for her. Crafted from gleaming 18-karat gold, each understated style will stack seamlessly with an engagement ring and a wedding band. Similarly suited to minimalists is Chopard’s ‘Ice Cube’ design – its sleek, sculptural silhouette is brought to life in 18-karat gold and offers a bold, modern feel.
Meanwhile, those seeking a flash of scintillation should look to Stone and Strand. The brand’s baguette-cut diamond ring offers a sophisticated take on a skinny diamond-set band and would complement both contemporary and classic engagement-ring styles. If your penchant for diamonds is a little stronger, then Kimaï’s ‘Lady’ ring is a savvy choice. Each lab-grown diamond (diamant synthétique) is set within a halo of 18-karat recycled gold, creating a band of brilliance that encircles the entire finger – providing the perfect placeholder piece.