Pure gold, being too soft for all ordinary purposes, is generally alloyed with other metals. Silver and copper are principal alloys used, although iron is used in small quantities for different purposes. Pure silver has a brilliant white color and is whitest of all metals. No metal surpasses silver in its luster and hardness it ranges between pure gold and pure copper. It is more fusible than copper or gold, melting at a bright red heat or at 1873F. It is commonly used for purpose of alloying gold in its pure state, but if too much is added it makes gold pale. Pure copper is only metal that has a reddish appearance. It is both malleable and ductile; hence it is very useful as an alloy for gold.

Most people associate wearing of a ring on left hand ring finger to mean that a significant commitment of some sort has been made.

If promise is for pre-engagement, many couples choose to wear this ring on their left hand ring finger. They then switch ring to their right hand once actual engagement ring or wedding band is received.

Likewise a ring exchanged for promise of monogamy or fidelity would be worn on left hand ring finger to symbolize that wearer's heart is taken.

Where did promise ring originate?

Rings themselves have been symbolic for many thousands of years. The circle has no beginning and no end and is a strong symbol for eternity.

Have you ever heard of a scribbling ring? In sixteenth century England, uncut diamond crystals were set into rings and exchanged by lovers. The wearers of these scribbling rings would use points of diamonds to etch (or "scribble") romantic writings to each other in glass, mirrors or windows.

Another popular ring exchanged during Shakespearian times was called a Posey Ring. Posey rings are inscribed with poetic phrases or dates significant to wearer.

It is believed that wearing words next to ones skin has a magical effect. These symbolic words may be carved on outside or inside of ring, or on both sides, there is no right or wrong way to do it!

Posey rings are a romantic way to share an expression of love and come engraved with beautiful sayings. It is no surprise that since French is said to be language of love -- French poseys are very popular. Some special phrases include:

• A Ma Vie De Coer Entier – My whole heart for my whole life
• A Vila Mon Coer, Gardi Li Mo – Here is my heart, guard it well
• Amor Meus – My Love
• Autre Ne Veuil – No one, but you
• De M'Amoure Soiez Sure – Of my love be sure

Ok, so maybe French isn't your thing - how about one of these:

• In Gaelic - Anam Cara – Soul Friend
• In English – I Am My Beloved's & My Beloved Is Mine
• In Latin - Semper Amenus – Our love is forever
• In German - Mine Genyst – My heart
• In Hebrew - Mazel Tov – Marital good luck ring
• Christian – With This Ring, I Thee Wed
• In Italian - Mani In Fede – Hands Together in Faith
• In Spanish - No Tengo Mas Que Darte – I have nothing more to give you but my heart

Use your imagination and write a Posey of your own!

The list of Posey ring sayings is endless! If you really want to "wow" love of your life, come up with a special phrase that is meaningful to just two of you. Having a special ring engraved with one of your own poseys would be a very romantic way for you to share your most heartfelt sentiments with a special someone you care about!