Shopping for jewelry doesn’t always mean breaking the bank. While high-end pieces can easily run into the thousands, there are plenty of brands offering gorgeous, durable designs at a fraction of the price. From delicate everyday chains to sparkling diamonds (yes, really), affordable jewelry has never looked so chic—or felt so attainable.
The key is knowing where to shop. With the right brands, you’ll find pieces that look timeless, wear beautifully, and won’t leave your skin green after a single use. Whether you’re treating yourself or searching for the perfect gift, here’s a breakdown of the best affordable jewelry brands worth adding to your radar.
Best Affordable Jewelry Brands at a Glance
- Best Overall: Banter
- Best for Pendants: Blue Nile
- Best for Lab-Grown Diamonds: Brilliant Earth
- Best Minimalist Styles: Mejuri
- Best for Custom Jewelry: Oak and Luna
- Most Variety: Amazon
- Most Trendy: Free People
- Best for Birthstones: GLDN
- Best Themed Jewelry: Baublebar
- Best for Earrings: Sterling Forever
- Best for Diamonds: Plum Diamonds
What to Consider Before Buying Affordable Jewelry
Not all jewelry is created equal, and affordable doesn’t have to mean disposable. According to David Schoenfeld, founder and CEO of Ring Bear, the trick is matching the material to your needs.
- For long-term wear: Stick to gold or platinum, which will maintain their beauty for decades.
- For seasonal or trend-driven pieces: Gold vermeil (a thick gold plating over sterling silver) or sterling silver are durable yet affordable options.
Another tip? Always check for markings inside the piece. Reputable jewelers use standardized stamps (like 14K or 925) so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Ethics also matter. If sustainability or conflict-free diamonds are important to you, research the brand’s sourcing practices and read customer reviews. Jewelry is often symbolic—so it’s worth ensuring the piece reflects your values, not just your style.
Why Affordable Jewelry Doesn’t Mean “Cheap”
The misconception is that budget-friendly jewelry looks flimsy or falls apart after a few wears. Today, that’s far from true. Many brands use high-quality materials, like sterling silver, gold vermeil, and lab-grown diamonds, to deliver both beauty and durability without the luxury markup.
In fact, lab-grown diamonds are one of the biggest game changers. They’re chemically identical to mined diamonds but come at a fraction of the price—and without the environmental impact. For those who want sparkle on a budget, this option is a no-brainer.
The Best Affordable Jewelry Brands to Shop Now
- Banter – Best Overall
Affordable, trendy, and widely accessible, Banter is an easy go-to for anyone starting (or growing) their jewelry collection. - Blue Nile – Best for Pendants
Famous for its fine jewelry at approachable prices, Blue Nile is perfect if you’re searching for a meaningful pendant or timeless gift. - Brilliant Earth – Best for Lab-Grown Diamonds
Known for their ethical practices, Brilliant Earth specializes in lab-grown and conflict-free diamonds. Luxe, guilt-free sparkle at a more reasonable cost. - Mejuri – Best Minimalist
If your style leans simple and chic, Mejuri’s delicate pieces are designed to layer, stack, and wear every day. - Oak and Luna – Best Custom Jewelry
Personalized necklaces, engraved rings, and monogrammed pieces make Oak and Luna a favorite for sentimental gifts. - Amazon – Most Variety
With thousands of affordable jewelry options, Amazon is ideal for quick finds and trendy styles at nearly every price point. - Free People – Most Trendy
For statement pieces and on-the-pulse designs, Free People has everything from chunky hoops to bold gemstone rings. - GLDN – Best for Birthstones
Celebrate a loved one (or yourself) with GLDN’s birthstone pieces, which combine thoughtful design with a personal touch. - Baublebar – Best Themed Jewelry
From playful designs to seasonal collections, Baublebar makes jewelry fun without sacrificing quality. - Sterling Forever – Best for Earrings
As the name suggests, this brand specializes in long-lasting sterling silver earrings that won’t tarnish after one night out. - Plum Diamonds – Best for Diamonds
For those who want the real deal without sky-high prices, Plum Diamonds delivers stunning, ethical diamonds that rival traditional luxury jewelers.
Final Thoughts
Affordable jewelry is no longer about compromise. With brands like Mejuri, Brilliant Earth, and GLDN leading the way, it’s easier than ever to find pieces that align with your budget, style, and values. Whether you’re after a dainty everyday necklace, a personalized gift, or even a diamond ring, there’s a brand that offers exactly what you need—without the luxury price tag.
Because in the end, jewelry should feel special no matter what you spend. And thanks to these accessible brands, you don’t need a trust fund to shine.
