- According to the website ourpromiserings.com the custom harks back to one from ancient Israel. Then, they say, betrothed brides were given a promise ring to attest to the legally binding commitment. The later rings worn by Roman Catholic bishops may also figure in the roots of the new trend of giving away promise rings. Even today, when an individual makes a personal dedication to a saint, she often wears a promise ring engraved with that saint's image.
- Because a promise ring can stand for several different commitments, it is important to specify its significance. Two friends who may be separated can exchange promise rings to be reminded about each other in their absence. This is an affectionate gesture that attests to how meaningful the friendship is.
- Perhaps the most popular reason to exchange a promise ring is to demonstrate a long-term commitment to a romantic relationship. Many promise rings are marketed as "pre-engagement" rings. They represent a couple's intention to remain in an exclusive, intimate relationship that will probably result in marriage.
- A popular contemporary Christian trend involves promise rings for a very different purpose. Parents give their teen children promise rings to remind them to remain chaste until they get married. The rings are promoted by groups advocating celibacy, and are sometimes called "true love waits rings."
- Teen Diaries Online mentions several pop celebrities who wear a promise ring. They include the Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, and "American Idol" finalist Jordan Sparks. Her comments in defense of a promise ring for purity caused a bit of a publicity uproar at the 2008 Video Music Awards. She said later that she didn't mean to imply that people who do not wear the rings are promiscuous.
