Promise Rings on a Budget: What They Mean, What to Choose and What They Cost
A promise ring is a ring given as a sign of commitment before, or instead of, an engagement. It does not need to cost much, and it should not look like an engagement ring trying too hard. The best promise rings are simple, wearable and a little personal. Here is what they mean, what to choose and what they cost.
What a Promise Ring Means
Most often a promise ring says "we are serious about each other" when an engagement is still some way off, because of age, study, distance or money. It can also mark other promises: a friendship ring, a purity ring, or a promise to yourself. Agree on the meaning together before you give one, so it is received the way you intend.
Which Finger Does a Promise Ring Go On?
There is no fixed rule. Many people wear it on the ring finger of the left hand and move it to the right hand when they become engaged. Others wear it on the right ring finger from the start, so it is not mistaken for an engagement ring. Either is fine.
Styles That Work Best
- A small solitaire: a single stone on a plain band, the most popular choice.
- A thin band of stones: a half eternity or six-prong band that stacks later with an engagement ring.
- A colored stone: blue, green or champagne moissanite keeps it clearly different from an engagement ring; see our colored moissanite rings.
- Something engraved: initials or a date inside the band, free up to 20 characters on our rings.
What They Cost: Real Examples
Starting prices in 925 sterling silver, checked in October 2026:
| Ring | From |
|---|---|
| 2 mm round moissanite band, six-prong set | $110.99 |
| Open half eternity band | $116.99 |
| Full eternity 2 mm moissanite band | $120.99 |
| Round moissanite solitaire, 1 ct | $149.99 |
| The same solitaire, 2 ct | $199.99 |
In solid gold, the same 1 carat solitaire is $549.98 in 10K and $649.98 in 14K. Sterling silver is the budget choice and fine for a ring that may be replaced by an engagement ring later; solid gold lasts better if the ring will be worn every day for years. Yellow and rose on sterling silver are plated finishes. Browse more under $500 in moissanite rings under $500.
How to Get the Size Right for a Surprise
- Borrow a ring they already wear on the same finger and measure its inside diameter with our ring size guide and printable sizer.
- A ring worn on the right hand is usually a little larger than the same finger on the left.
- If you are unsure, choose a band with plain metal underneath, which can be resized, rather than a full eternity band, which usually cannot. Resized pieces are final sale.
From Promise to Engagement
Many couples keep the promise ring when they get engaged: it moves to the right hand, or becomes a stacking band beside the engagement ring. If that is your plan, choose a thin band in the metal you expect the engagement ring to be, so the two match later. When the time comes, our step-by-step engagement ring guide takes it from there.
Quick Answers
How much should you spend on a promise ring?
Whatever feels comfortable; it is about the meaning, not the price. Simple moissanite promise rings start at about $110 in sterling silver.
Can a promise ring be a moissanite ring?
Yes. Moissanite is hard enough for everyday wear and gives real sparkle at a low price, which suits a promise ring well.
Is a promise ring the same as an engagement ring?
No. A promise ring is a commitment before an engagement; it is usually smaller and simpler so the two are not confused.
What hand does a promise ring go on?
Either. The left ring finger is common, moving to the right hand at engagement; some wear it on the right from the start.