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The 38 Best Affordable Jewelry Brands of 2024, Vetted and Reviewed

Starting at just $15

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and some items may be gifted to us. Additionally, PureWow may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.

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Dasha Burobina/PureWow

Whether you're putting on a chic ensemble for a night out or throwing on a pair of leggings and running out the door in the morning, I bet you still love putting on some bling. And while I enjoy splurging on myself every once in a while, there's nothing like finding staple pieces that let me indulge without the sticker shock. I compiled a list of the 38 best affordable jewelry brands to check out. From Soko's dainty gold hoops ($208) you'll never want to take off, to By Adina Eden's pretty tangle of necklaces ($98; $49) that's perfect for that special someone on Valentine's Day to a jaw-dropping ring ($78) from Bonheur that screams "Happy Anniversary," I found your next jewelry piece at a budget-friendly price.

The Best Affordable Jewelry Brands at a Glance

1

Best Overall

Aurate

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2

Best Minimalistic

Mejuri

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3

Most Affordable Engagement Rings

Blue Nile

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4

Best Mixed Stones

Missoma

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5

Best Statement Pieces

Brinker & Eliza

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Meet the Expert

Marisa Hordern is the founder and creative director of Missoma. She has 17 years of experience running the creative, business and marketing sides of the jewelry brand. Her company started out as a side hustle before she branched out to the U.S. and European markets in 2008.

How I Chose the Best Affordable Jewelry Brands

I asked a jewelry expert to fill us in on how to score the best deals on hoops, rings, necklaces and more. Her insights gave me a better idea on how to search for the best affordable jewelry brands. I also tapped editors to share their favorite brands, as well as sourced brands based on customer reviews, the price range and each brand's offerings. Keep reading for the 38 best affordable jewelry brands to gift yourself (or your loved ones) for under $200.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

Best Overall

1. Aurate

What We Like

  • earrings can be purchased separately
  • ethically sourced 14k gold, 18k gold, platinum, 14k gold-plated vermeil and sterling silver

What We Don't Like

  • prices vary based on gemstone

Aurate

Aurate is known for fine jewelry that fits every budget. Only want to spend under $100? Here are some gorgeous gold ball studs ($208; $80). Have $160 burning a hole in your pocket? Treat yourself to a triple row ring ($416; $160). Want to invest in a pearl for under $200? Aurate has one on a gold chain ($338; $130) for you. Their prices can go all the way up to $3,000, so you (and your wallet) have been warned.

Best Minimalistic

2. Mejuri

What We Like

  • durable pieces
  • uses natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds, 14k gold, 18k gold vermeil and silver sterling

What We Don't Like

  • pricey for dainty rings
  • unreliable customer service

Mejuri

Minimal designs + reasonable prices + extremely good quality = the brilliant equation behind anything from Mejuri. The direct-to-consumer brand is your best bet for 14K-gold delicate rings ($108) that won’t turn your fingers green and a chain necklace dotted with white sapphires ($98) that you can wear to work (and even during a workout).

Most Affordable Engagement Rings

3. Blue Nile

What We Like

  • ability to create custom engagement rings
  • distinctive shapes and finishes
  • wide range of styles

What We Don't Like

  • no refund on engraved rings

Blue Nile

Based in Seattle and boasting a wide selection of gemstones and diamonds, Blue Nile is the place to go for affordable pricing on engagement rings and other gemstone pieces. They offer better deals due to cutting out the middleman in the distribution process. While some of their prices can extend past the $5,000 mark, there are dozens of stunning, high-quality pieces that fall within the $500 to $2,000 range, like the Petite Nouveau Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring (from $610) and the Petite Hidden Halo Solitaire Plus Diamond Engagement Ring (from $1,030). Furthermore, if you need additional help picking out piece, you can book an in-store or virtual appointment with a personal jeweler.

Best Mixed Stones

4. Missoma

What We Like

  • colorful gemstones
  • stunning enamel finishes
  • responsibly sourced in packaging process and supply chain emissions

What We Don't Like

  • reviewers say chokers run a bit small

Missoma

Missoma prides itself on being one of the first demi-fine jewelry brands to offer everything from necklaces to pendants at accessible prices since 2008. Whether you prefer solid gold like the Zenyu Ovate hoop ($115; $81) or stacking pieces like the Double Chain necklace ($167), this London-based company has you covered.

Best Statement Pieces

5. Brinker & Eliza

What We Like

  • large heart pendants
  • distinctive link chains

What We Don't Like

  • can exchange or refund within 15 days of purchase

Brinker and Eliza

A Connecticut-based mother-daughter duo came together to create this stylish jewelry brand for all ages. And the best part is it’s not all trendy antiqued finish rope necklaces ($138), though there are plenty of those beauties too. Some additional designs include a heart charm bracelet ($118) and gold pearl huggies ($118).

Trendiest Pieces

6. BONBONWHIMS

What We Like

  • can purchase single earrings
  • vibrant color options
  • AAPI-owned

What We Don't Like

  • low stock for many of their best sellers

BONBONWHIMS

If you love Y2K fashion, look no further than BONBONWHIMS. This AAPI-owned brand is the destination for bold, whimsical pieces. From their chunky resin rings ($68) to their statement drop earrings ($40) and charm necklaces ($118), celebs like Ariana Grande, Olivia Rodrigo and Megan Thee Stallion can't seem to get enough of the brand's signature styles.

Best Style Range

7. Bonheur

What We Like

  • features Swarovski crystles
  • chunky rings
  • celebrity-approved

What We Don't Like

  • you have a week from purchase date to return unworn jewelry

Bonheur

Bonheur's founders Ally and Albina Mataj were inspired by their grandmother’s jewelry collection, and their brand seeks to introduce pieces that can similarly be passed down through generations. The line is separated into collections of necklaces, bracelets and rings, such as the Trendsetter collection made of snake chains set with stones and the Old Hollywood-inspired Etiennette collection. Favorite pieces include the Marion gold multi-stone ring ($78) with red and clear Swarovski stones, the Siobhan Swarovski long drop earrings ($118) featuring cascades of three crystal strings, set in 18K gold-plated brass and 5.8 inches long—plus, the Jacquelyn multi-charm necklace ($138), a 17-inch skinny chain dotted with white round baguette and pear-shaped Swarovski stones.

Best Bead Work

8. Olivia Le

What We Like

  • hypoallergenic
  • handmade pieces

What We Don't Like

  • you have two weeks from purchase date to return unworn jewelry

Olivia Le

If dainty, timeless beaded jewelry is your thing, you have to check out Olivia Le. I recommend scooping up a classic piece like the Leilani Mother Of Pearl necklace ($98), chic earrings like the Petra golden huggies ($64) and Grande Venice rope necklace ($128) for stacking to elevate any look.

Best Chain Selection

9. Electric Picks

What We Like

  • toggle closures
  • versatile designs
  • can repair any item at any time

What We Don't Like

  • reviewers say bracelets run a bit small

Electric Picks

In 2011, a pair of best friends founded this company with the concept of jewelry as a holder of an individual’s story. In making their designs, MJ and Chantel searched for vintage treasures before recasting them for contemporary wearers. Top picks include a pair of sophisticated hoop earrings ($68), a 14k gold-plated birthstone necklace ($98) and summer-inspired pearl necklace ($98). The brand even convinced our senior editor Dana Dickey to add a chic anklet ($75) to her collection. "It's my favorite little extra to wear with ballet flats or shorts. I'm usually averse to anklets but since they have been trending, and this one is so minimalist, I tried it and [fell in] love," she says.

Great Work Pieces

10. Rellery

What We Like

  • baroque pearls
  • contemporary styling

What We Don't Like

  • unreliable customer service
  • some reviewers say the necklaces are super long

Rellery

Brooklyn-based Rellery specializes in demi-fine jewelry that’s made with authentic stones, gold-plated sterling silver and 14K gold staples. I love the 18K gold vermeil twisted ear cuff ($39) that goes just as well with a business suit as it does a party dress. Pearls are currently trending in jewelry, and Rellery has a delicate Freshwater pearl necklace ($95) and pearl drop huggie earrings ($65), which are both classic buys that can be worn forever. "Rellery is a recent fave of mine and I love that their designs look so elevated but come at a price that's not going to totally deplete my account," says Natalie LaBarbera, assistant commerce editor.

Best Stones

11. Kendra Scott

What We Like

  • colorful semiprecious gems
  • bold settings

What We Don't Like

  • unreliable customer service

Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott knows how to craft a heart; standouts with the motif include a sweet drusy necklace ($65), and a pair of ocean kyocera opal stud earrings ($60). Should you be tempted to buy multiple pieces, Kendra Scott has all the goods to keep them tangle-free with cute organizational solutions like an acrylic T-bar stand ($85) for your necklaces or bracelets.

Best for Stacking

12. Astrid & Miyu

What We Like

  • creative pendants
  • ethically-sourced materials
  • AAPI-owned

What We Don't Like

  • can't return any earrings

Astrid and Miyu

Astrid & Miyu is the London destination for cool layered necklaces (but don’t worry, you’ll get free international shipping). Start with glimmery stud earrings ($54) and a chic mood ring ($69) beforing adding a simple circle pendant ($164) to the cart. FYI: All pieces are made of plated sterling silver, so you know they’ll last you for years to come.

Best Bold Pieces

13. Luv AJ

What We Like

  • large-link chains
  • sparky stones

What We Don't Like

  • some best sellers are currently low stock or sold out

Luv AJ

I can describe Luv AJ in four words: Bring on the bling. While the brand does offer solid metal options—like these Leila studs ($75; $52)—its pavé and crystal-studded numbers are definitely the way to go. You can also go with a Bezel pendant necklace ($115; 40) that resemble Swarovski crystals without the four-figure price tag. Fun fact: Luv AJ was started by Amanda Thomas in 2005 when she was just 15 and was making baubles in her free time after school.

Best Dainty Pieces

14. Gorjana

What We Like

  • mix of gold and silver options
  • complimentary gift wrap
  • returns are accepted within 30 days of purchase

What We Don't Like

  • only gold- and silver-plated items

Gorjana

Gorjana has the whole laid-back SoCal thing on lock; the brand is based in Laguna Beach, California, after all. Rock some simple shimmer huggies ($50) for a day at the office, or a pearl charm necklace ($78) for every party you've got on the calendar that's perfect for layering with other statement pieces.

Best Birthstones

15. Tai Jewelry

What We Like

  • cool zodiac designs
  • chic charm bracelets

What We Don't Like

  • some months are missing on the site

Tai Jewelry

If you’re on the hunt for a super specific piece of jewelry—such as a ring with birthstone rock crystals ($65)—Tai Jewelry’s got you covered. The brand has every kind of style to fit your astrology-obsessed bestie, from a birthstone pendant necklace ($80) to a zodiac charm necklace ($65). The studded zodiac earrings ($65) are also the best gift you could give to, well, anyone.

Best Enamel Pieces

16. Becket + Quill

What We Like

  • sophisticated heart pendants
  • bold chains
  • great for daily wear

What We Don't Like

  • can only receive store credit for returns
  • all earrings are final sale

Becket + Quill

The perfect place to shop for tweens, teens and their moms, this female-owned brand makes small, fashionable, but not overly trendy pieces that can be worn every day. Start a neck stack with their Delicate Duo ($100), which features a sorbet-enamel heart charm and gold chain. The three-strand button pearl bracelet ($60) is so versatile, and the little lightning bolt earring duo (from $55) Classically cool.

Best Ethical Jewelry

17. Soko

What We Like

  • bone collar necklaces
  • recycled brass and glass
  • Black-owned

What We Don't Like

  • some best sellers are selling out quickly

Soko

Can affordable jewelry also be ethical? Yes, if you shop from Soko, a brand that taps into a network of artisans in Kenya to create each of its statement pieces. From 24k gold plated brass cuffs ($198; $88) that would pair well with anything to Mezi boxed hoop earrings ($208)—and don’t forget these stacking gold-plated rings ($198)—these baubles will spark conversation, if not for their organic shapes and unique touches, then for their inspiring origins.

New Yorkers Favorite

18. Catbird

What We Like

  • hip shapes
  • trendy shapes and designs has limited edition pieces

What We Don't Like

  • can exchange or refund within 10 days of purchase

Catbird

Delicate but extremely wearable is the name of the game at Catbird. This New York City-based brand is the shopping destination of choice for anyone in search of precious gold bling that doesn't eat up an entire paycheck. But most thrilling are their real diamond earrings, for less than $150. There are chubby gold huggies ($124) that seem to defy gravity as they curve along the lobe and the diamond pinprick stud ($128) that appears to float in your lobe, thanks to the innovative design in which the stone is pierced by a tiny thread of platinum that's fused to a gold post.

Best Modern Designs

19. Jenny Bird

What We Like

  • great oversized earrings
  • celebrity-approved

What We Don't Like

  • some earrings may feel heavy to wear

Jenny Bird

Love a chunky piece of jewelry that adds a modernist vibe to every outfit, from jeans and a T-shirt to slinky dresses? That's where Jenny Bird comes in. From their Monogram necklace ($110) that features an array of glass pearls and metal beads to their super-cool tome hoops ($118) that's chunky with rounded ends and a high-gold finish, it's no wonder celebs like Hailey Bieber, Selena Gomez and even Michelle Obama are huge fans. "I find the jewelry to be sturdy, durable, non-irritating and absolutely stunning. They're for the minimalist who loves a bit of a modern, bold twist!," says Stephanie Meraz, associate fashion commerce editor.

Best Pearls

20. Lady Grey Jewelry

What We Like

  • creative designs
  • mixed-link necklaces
  • celebrity-approved

What We Don't Like

  • can exchange or refund within 14 days of purchase

Lady Grey

Pearls are massively flattering on everyone (including major league outfielders); they cast a luminosity onto all skin tones and pair well with gold and silver. Lady Grey has a way with the stone, putting elegant freshwater earrings into the wonderfully off-kilter duo chain necklace with a white pearl ($172), which looks just as fabulous over winter sweaters as it does on summer tank tops. And of course, what's more stylish than pearl stack hoops ($198)?

Best Party Jewelry

21. Kenneth Jay Lane

What We Like

  • quality craftsmanship
  • mixed stone designs
  • celebrity-approved

What We Don't Like

  • limited ring sizes

Kenneth Jay Lane

Kenneth Jay Lane baubles have been worn by Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and Princess Diana, so surely they’ll do for you. While some pieces can be a bit pricey, the brand also offers quite a few wallet-friendly options that do not skimp on the drama. Take, for example, this multicolor baguette ring ($75) or these sculpted hoop earrings ($50).

Best Lucite

22. Alexis Bittar

What We Like

  • rainbow palette
  • classic shapes

What We Don't Like

  • doesn't offer free shipping

Alexis Bittar

Designer Alexis Bittar has branched out into semi-precious stones, hammered metals and delicate chains in the many years since he bought a block of Lucite in 1990 to figure out how to make jewelry by carving into it. Yet the Lucite is still what we're craving, and it's now available in 27 colors from a shocking pink to a luminous amber and is crafted into shapes like a chunky ring ($100), and a stunning skinny bangle ($145) that will make any outfit pop.

Best Watches

23. Skagen

What We Like

  • oceanic stones
  • contemporary chic

What We Don't Like

  • finicky knob

Skagen

This women’s jewelry collection is inspired by the coast of Skagen, Denmark, which means one thing: Scandi chic! Plenty of these pieces play with light and contrast, like the silver tone bracelet with crystal accents (from $60; $43), while others bring a touch of color to any day of the week, as evidenced by the sea glass earrings (from $58). Once you’ve treated yourself to some new jewelry, you might as well finish off your look with a new timepiece ($135; $58).

Best Name Necklaces

24. Fraiser Sterling

What We Like

  • waterproof pieces
  • Euphoria collab

What We Don't Like

  • can exchange or refund within 15 days of purchase

Fraiser Sterling

In 2011, founder Fraiser Lipton wanted to make her dream accessory line and she nailed it with Fraiser Sterling. Whether you're rocking their rings, chokers or earrings, these trendy pieces will definitely stand out in your jewelry box. When you're ready to upgrade your personal style, check out their custom pearl princess necklace ($66), or be surprised with a mystery ring of their choosing ($15).

Best Collabs

25. BaubleBar

What We Like

  • customizable pieces
  • fun collabs

What We Don't Like

  • reviewers say some necklaces don't lay flat

BaubleBar

When there’s a jewelry trend that’s going to cost you four figures, check BaubleBar before pulling the trigger. The stylish brand always has its finger on the pulse and often collaborates with the biggest companies like Disney, MLB and NFL. Case in point, this MLB earring set ($58), 18k gold reversible medallion necklace ($128) and Mickey Mouse pisa bracelet ($30; $20). "I'm a fan of Baublebar for their fun and funky statement jewelry. I especially love their bold costume earrings for a great Instagram moment," shares Stephanie Maida, senior commerce editor.

Best CZ Settings

26. By Adina Eden

What We Like

  • stunning tennis bracelets
  • pavé settings

What We Don't Like

  • some best sellers are selling out quickly

Adina's Jewels

For the most intriguing neck mess, it's important to have at least one major piece of bling. But there's no need to overspend on a pavé diamond pendant when By Adina Eden creations are available. I love their chic heart ring ($44; $22), dainty sterling silver butterfly necklace ($98; $49) and mini huggies set ($32; $16).

Most Mystical Designs

27. Awe Inspired

What We Like

  • global goddess etchings
  • hypoallergenic and nickle-free
  • ethically-sourced gemstones, diamonds and metals

What We Don't Like

  • some best sellers are selling out quickly

Awe Inspired

In 2018, founder Jill Johnson launched Awe Inspired to make meaningful gifts that would stand as a symbol of empowerment whenever you wore them. "We design timeless, modern heirlooms to raise inner strength and bring a little more beauty into the world," the site reads. Offering a wide selection of mixed metals and gemstones that are ethically-sourced and sustainably-made, our favorites include the snake stud earrings ($70; $63) and mini Athena necklace ($160; $144). It's no wonder the brand counts a-listers like Selena Gomez, Kristen Bell and Sarah Jessica Parker as fans.

Best Bejeweled Apparel

28. 8 Other Reasons

What We Like

  • ginormous earrings
  • chainmail clothing

What We Don't Like

  • some reviewers say the necklaces don't lay flat

8 Other Reasons

Since 2010, 8 Other Reasons has given me exactly one reason to upgrade my jewelry collection: their chic, affordable pieces. According to the brand, they want you to be the life of the party and their staples are guaranteed to bring your whole look together for such occasions. Whether you're gearing up for a music festival or a night out with friends, add their sassy studs ($36), or rhinestone anklet ($53) to really shine.

Best Chunky Hoops

29. Ten Wilde

What We Like

  • BIPOC-owned
  • extension collection
  • offers waist chains

What We Don't Like

  • can exchange or refund within 14 days of purchase

Ten Wilde

Fact: Everyone could use a good pair of hoops in their lives and this BIPOC-owned brand is our go-to for gold hoops at an affordable price. Choose from the thick tube hoops ($37), the 18k gold Celine ones ($65) or stack a few styles as you please. And if you're looking for something other than hoops, the company also carries waist chains (from $22), stylish necklaces (from $32) and stacking rings (from $26). "When I was looking to expand my jewelry collection, Ten Wilde was the first brand I looked at for hoops. My favorite is their best-selling Amalfi hoops ($35), which I've worn for two years now," says Chelsea Candelario, associate editor.

Best Layered Stones

30. Leeada Jewelry

What We Like

  • inset signets rings
  • abalone accents

What We Don't Like

  • limited ring sizes

Leeada Jewelry

Leeada Jewelry makes timeless pieces for the modern jewelry lover. In 2021, the LA-based brand came out with classic styles that featured a trendy twist (and a budget-friendly price tag). You’ll find gemstones, pearls and gold-plated statements at the center of their collections. Whether that’s a dainty pearl ring ($85), geometric 14k gold hoops ($95) or a chunky onyx stone necklace ($128), Leeada is poised to make a dent in the jewelry world. 

Best Delicate Jewelry

31. Maison Miru

What We Like

  • nap-friendly earring backs
  • earrings for non-lobe piercings

What We Don't Like

  • finicky stacking rings

Maison Miru

In 2013, founder Trisha Okubo used her background in engineering and her love of jewelry to create Maison Miru. The brand combines science and art to craft unique pieces of jewelry you won’t see everywhere else. While the collection features necklaces, rings and bracelets, it’s the earrings that really stand out. From the shooting star open hoop earrings ($65) to the Eternity Echo ear cuff ($65), you’ll find out-of-the box shapes and styles to decorate your ears (and tempt you to book that piercing appointment, stat). 

Best All-in-One Shopping

32. Anthropologie

What We Like

  • wide range of styles
  • affordable pricing

What We Don't Like

  • $6 fee will be deducted from any returns

Anthropologie

When we're on the hunt for monogrammed and horoscope-inspired jewelry, Anthropologie is our first stop. From a classic monogram necklace ($48), to a beautiful enamel stacking ring ($38) the fashion retailer designs tons of personalized pieces that you can wear every single day. Not to mention, Anthropologie carries pieces from many of my other favorite affordable jewelry brands, including Baublebar and Maya Brenner.

Best for Your BFF

33. Madewell

What We Like

  • appealing selection
  • wearable

What We Don't Like

  • not waterproof

Madewell

You already love Madewell’s wide-leg jeans and cozy winter sweaters. So we're pretty sure you'll love their jewelry too. From simple gold-plated hoop earrings ($36) to jazz up your ear party to the best-selling puffy ear cuffs ($28) that you won't find anywhere else, they have a solid assortment of options to choose from. Don’t sleep on their sets of stacking rings—like these that mix metals and stones ($34; $27)—and be sure to check out their sale section, where you can often find gems that cost less than a glass of wine.

Most Customizable

34. Made By Mary

What We Like

  • chic birthstone settings
  • personalization

What We Don't Like

  • production and shipping takes about a month

Made By Mary

This female-founded brand has an understated allure that's all the more irresistible given the average price point falls mainly under $100. For gifting, choose between the State disc necklace ($64) that let's you rep your hometown. And the Nova disc necklace ($120) is sure to be a hit, with each of the three discs engravable with important names.

Best Gold Pieces

35. Monica Vinader

What We Like

  • recyclable materials and lab grown diamonds
  • engraved opportunities
  • can exchange or refund within 100 days of purchase

What We Don't Like

  • best sellers are selling out quickly

Monica Vinader

Since 2008, founder Monica Vinader has focused on making everyday pieces that make the wearer feel good. The brand only uses 100 percent recyclable gold and sterling silver material to create timeless and chic pieces. Whether you're in the market for 18k gold huggie earrings ($70) or want to add a personalized touch to your fine chain necklace ($140), the company has plenty of options.

Best Stacking Rings

36. AMYO

What We Like

  • ethically-made
  • NYC-based

What We Don't Like

  • scratches easily

AMYO

AMYO carries a wide range of necklaces, earrings, bracelets and even nose jewelry, but we're head over heels for their impressive ring collection. Assistant Editor Delia Curtis couldn't stop raving about the brand, pointing out the engraved initial oval signet ring ($85) as their favorite piece. "It's customizable, dainty and great for stacking. You can get the ring in any size and it also comes in silver. AMYO's jewelry is really nice quality for the price point," they share.

Best Budget

37. Flaire & Co

What We Like

  • hypoallergenic
  • anti-tarnish

What We Don't Like

  • best sellers are selling out quickly

Flaire & Co

This LA-based company creates trendy, high-quality and affordable pieces that are all under $100. Are you looking to upgrade your ear stack? Check out these simple gold huggies ($14). Maybe you want a personalized gold and silver bracelet? Here's this gorgeous piece ($18). "I recently discovered Flaire & Co and love that everything is actually affordable. Seriously, the styles are all pretty dainty and are $30 or less," shares Meraz.

Best Studs

38. Studs

What We Like

  • comes in single or pair options
  • a pouch and stickers with every order

What We Don't Like

  • best sellers are selling out quickly

Studs

Studs is ready to change the ear stacking game. Whether you're looking for a single stud (from $22), chunky hoops ($34; $12) or a whole earscape set ($78), the brand has you covered. Aside from their collection, the brick-and-mortar stores offer piercing services to really customize your stack. "I visited a Studs store and immediately fell in love with their pieces. Plus, the employees were so nice and put me at ease," says Candelario.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Affordable Jewelry Lower Quality?

“Jewelry doesn’t have to be at a luxury price-point to be durable and long-lasting,” says Hordern. “When looking to buy jewelry, I would always advise thinking long-term. It’s much more economical to consider how long you’ll be able to wear a piece, in how many ways and how long it will last, as opposed to just getting something because it’s trending or cheaper. As they say: Buy better, buy once.”

What Should You Look for When Buying Affordable Jewelry?

Consider a few factors beyond the price tag, such as:

  • Base Metal: Are you looking for brass, silver or gold pieces? The type of metal can play a role in how long a piece will last in your jewelry box. According to Hordern, some brands may use stainless steel over brass to keep costs down—even though brass is more durable and the longer-lasting metal between the two.
  • Gemstones: Aside from the types of metals being used, gemstones like pearls, garnet and opal are often the center of a piece, but are they always real? “Really cheap jewelry will often have fake gemstones for more affordability. However, using real gemstones gives the piece more meaning and value,” says Hordern. When it comes to spotting if a gemstone is real or not, it'll boil down to the finish (natural stones tend to have a few flaws), brand credibility and color.
  • Weight: “The heavier a piece of jewelry is, the more valuable [the piece] will be. Brands can often save costs by scooping and hollowing out the metal, but jewelry has a minimum metal thickness it can go to before it will have tarnishing issues. However, it's also worth mentioning that sometimes it’s necessary to hollow out certain pieces. For example, [you want to do it] with earrings to ensure they don’t pull on the ear lobe,” explains Hordern.
  • Gold-Plated vs. Gold-Filled: While both have “gold” in the name, they’re completely different. According to Hordern, gold vermeil or gold-filled pieces tend to be thicker and last longer than gold plating. The plating process is also different as it uses electrolysis to make the jewelry more durable.
  • Sustainability Factor: Whether it’s the brand’s practices or the jewelry itself, this can help narrow down your choices. Do some research to learn about where a brand is sourcing its material, how they test their products and the ways they’re making their pieces more affordable.

How Should You Clean Your Jewelry?

Once you secure your new pair of earrings (or that trendy necklace you’ve been eyeing for a while), it’s time to maintain the piece so it will last for years to come. “As long as you store, care and clean your jewelry properly, your pieces should last,” says Hordern. 

To keep your piece in top condition, Hordern recommends using a non-abrasive cloth (or chamois) to maintain its shine. She also suggests applying a mild soap and warm water to the piece before gently scrubbing it with a soft toothbrush to keep it squeaky clean and sparkly.

How Should You Store Your Jewelry? 

Hordern advises putting individual pieces in a soft box (or the pouch they came in), so they don’t rub together, tangle or scratch against other jewelry. There’s also the option of buying a snazzy new jewelry box to have all your accessories on display. Plus, it’s a great way to keep everything organized in one place.

The 25 Best Online Jewelry Stores to Buy Everything from Chunky Hoops to Trendy Engagement Rings



dana dickey

Senior Editor

  • Writes about fashion, wellness, relationships and travel
  • Oversees all LA/California content and is the go-to source for where to eat, stay and unwind on the west coast
  • Studied journalism at the University of Florida

about face matte fluid eye paint review chelsea candelario

Beauty and Cultures Editor

  • Writes trend stories, product reviews and how-tos across beauty, cultures, fashion and entertainment
  • Over 5 years of experience as a Beauty Editor
  • Studied journalism with a minor in creative writing at SUNY New Paltz

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.