17 Under-the-Radar Affordable Jewelry Brands That Make Expensive-Looking Pieces

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Shopping for jewelry doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor, especially if you know which affordable jewelry brands to browse for classic pieces and trendy designs alike. And just because you’re not forking over thousands of dollars for jewelry, doesn’t mean you’ll get stuck with cheap pieces that break down or turn your skin green — there are *so* many affordable options out there that are built to last and look incredibly stunning.

Whether you’re shopping for a gift or for yourself, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on jewelry to get the same stylish and sentimental look.

The Best Affordable Jewelry Brands at a Glance

• Best Overall: James Allen
• Best for Pendants: Blue Nile
• Best for Lab-Grown Diamonds: Brilliant Earth
• Best Minimalist: Mejuri
  Best for Custom Jewelry: Oak and Luna
• Most Variety: Amazon
• Most Trendy: Free People
• Most for Birthstones: GLDN
• Best Themed Jewelry: Baublebar
• Best for Earrings: Sterling Forever
• Best for Diamonds: Plum Diamonds

What to Look for When Shopping Affordable Jewelry Brands, According to a Pro

“When considering an affordable jewelry brand, customers should ensure the materials used align with the desired lifespan of the jewelry,” says David Schoenfeld, founder and CEO of Ring Bear. “If the goal is to wear the piece for an extended period, it’s worth investing in gold or platinum. If the piece is trend-based or seasonal, then gold vermeil or silver can be great options.”

If you are purchasing gold or sterling silver, “any reputable jeweler will include standardized markings on the interior of the piece,” adds Schoenfeld.

If you’re concerned about ethics, including diamond mining, etc. “customers should also ensure the brand aligns with their values. Do they act sustainably? Do they have positive reviews from previous customers? With this confirmation, customers can feel good knowing the jewelry represents themselves, regardless of price,” says Schoenfeld.

As with everything else, finding cute jewelry on a budget can seem impossible. Especially if you want it to look like a more high-end style (or you don’t want whoever you’re buying for to know it was purchased on a budget). Ahead, you’ll find our favorite jewelry pieces at every price point.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. James Allen is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

The Best Affordable Jewelry Brands for Rings, Necklaces, Earrings, and More