What is a Purity Ring?

Purity rings are becoming increasingly popular among boys and girls alike across the United States and the rest of the world. Despite the fact that the purity ring trend continues to grow, many people are still unsure of precisely what a purity ring is and what it means to wear one.

The Symbolism

Like an engagement ring, a purity ring symbolizes a promise, but instead of a promise to marry a particular partner, the ring signifies that the wearer pledges to remain abstinent until marriage. Purity rings are linked primarily with Christianity and are often worn by teens who wish to publicly display their commitment to their religious beliefs.

History of Purity Rings

As explained by the Rutland Herald, purity rings first emerged on the market in the 1990s. Southern Baptist Churches were among the first to promote the concept of wearing a ring to signify a promise to wait until marriage, and members of youth groups throughout the South began wearing the rings soon after.

The purity ring trend spread throughout the 1990s. Existing policies under the Bush Administration allowed companies that sold purity rings to receive tax credits, considering the rings a form of abstinence education. As a result, more and more jewelry companies began manufacturing the rings and promoting them to tweens and teens. In 2008, celebrities like the Jonas Brothers and Selena Gomez advocated for teenage abstinence and sported their own purity rings.

Style Options

There is no one set style for purity rings though there are some trends that are more popular with girls. Diamond purity rings are favorite looks for many teens due to the value of the precious gemstones and their symbolism in marriage customs. Another popular style is a simple band with the words true love waits engraved on it.

Receiving a Purity Ring

Teens and young adults can receive purity rings in a number of ways. Some couples exchange them as a mutual promise to wait until they are married to engage in sex. When couples exchange purity rings, the girl may opt to continue wearing her ring once engaged. Often, couples stop wearing their rings on their wedding nights, or have the rings re-designed into wedding bands by professional jewelers.

Individuals may also opt to purchase their own purity rings or receive them as gifts from their parents. Churches in some parts of the country have purity balls for members. Fathers attend these events with their teenage daughters and present them with purity rings before the night is over. Purity rings may also be given informally as gifts for a birthday or Christmas.

In short, purity rings are symbols of chastity worn in ring form. They are a touching symbol of religious faith that makes a lovely gift for any occasion.

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