CNN Underscored has meticulously curated a list of 20 affordable jewelry brands for 2023, accentuating both style and budget-friendly prices, with pieces under $250. These selections feature a diverse array of designs, from Catbird’s minimalist Gumball Pearl Ring and Forever bracelets service in NYC, to Mejuri’s popular everyday Dôme Cuff Bracelet. Brands such as Fortune & Frame offer modern lockets, while Aurate balances beauty and sustainability with items like the Modern Cigar Band. Notable mentions also include Amyo, a woman- and Asian-owned brand featuring timeless pieces, and Please Repeat, which provides affordable 14-karat gold vermeil and sterling silver jewelry. Further adding to the list are Vanna’s luxe watches, Missoma’s demi-fine jewelry, and the statement pieces of Humans Before Handles. Each brand delivers unique offerings, from Studs’ diverse earring collection to Jennifer Zeuner’s spiritual simplicity and 8 Other Reasons’ bold statements. Those seeking ethical choices can look to Rellery, while Van Der Hout captivates with genuine gemstone designs. Additionally, Rocksbox grants access to trendy pieces through their rental subscription service, making it easier than ever to personalize your jewelry collection without breaking the bank. Have you ever wondered where to find high-quality, yet affordable jewelry to elevate your personal style without breaking the bank? If you have, you are not alone. Jewelry is a fantastic way to express yourself, and thankfully, you don’t need to spend a fortune to acquire beautiful pieces that make a statement.
CNN Underscored, a trusted resource for product recommendations, has curated a list of 20 affordable jewelry brands for 2023, ensuring you have access to stylish, high-quality jewelry for $250 or less. Whether you’re looking for minimalist designs, bold statement pieces, or ethical and sustainable options, this list has something for everyone. Let’s dive into these notable brands and their standout items.
Catbird
Catbird is renowned for its minimalist yet distinctive jewelry that speaks volumes through subtle elegance. Based in New York, this brand emphasizes quality craftsmanship and offers unique pieces that are both modern and timeless.
Signature Pieces
- Gumball Pearl Ring ($158): An exquisite ring that features a freshwater pearl set in solid 14-karat gold, providing a refined yet playful aesthetic.
- Forever Bracelets Service: This service allows you to get a delicate chain bracelet custom-fitted and welded onto your wrist, symbolizing an unbroken bond. This exclusive service is available only at their NYC store.
Mejuri
Mejuri is a fan favorite for everyday fine jewelry. The Toronto-based brand focuses on creating luxurious yet reasonably-priced pieces that are perfect for daily wear and special occasions alike.
Signature Piece
- Dôme Cuff Bracelet ($128): A sleek and versatile cuff bracelet that can easily transition from day to night, making it an essential addition to any jewelry collection.
Fortune & Frame
Fortune & Frame specializes in modern lockets and personalized jewelry that carries sentimental value. This New York-based brand integrates messages and fortunes into their pieces, creating a unique blend of fashion and meaning.
Signature Piece
- Flowered Vines Fortune Locket ($78): A beautifully crafted locket that can hold a personalized fortune or message, surrounded by an intricate floral design.
Aurate
Aurate prides itself on producing beautiful, durable, and sustainable jewelry. The NYC-based brand ensures its pieces are crafted with ethically sourced materials, combining luxury with responsibility.
Signature Piece
- Modern Cigar Band ($80): A bold, polished ring that epitomizes contemporary elegance and serves as a staple piece in any modern jewelry collection.
Amyo
Amyo, short for “Accessories Make Your Outfit,” is a boutique jewelry brand owned by women and Asians. The brand offers timeless pieces that are both elegant and affordable.
Signature Piece
- Baguette Huggie Earrings ($42): These petite, yet glamorous earrings feature baguette-cut stones, perfect for adding a touch of sparkle to any outfit.
Please Repeat
Please Repeat specializes in affordable yet luxurious 14-karat gold vermeil and sterling silver jewelry. Their pieces are designed to be both classic and contemporary, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Signature Piece
- Burst Cigar Band Ring ($89): A statement piece with a bold, polished finish, ideal for making an impression.
Vanna
Vanna offers luxe watches that blend timeless designs with modern elements. Their pieces are crafted with precision, ensuring that you not only look stylish but also feel confident about your accessory choices.
Signature Piece
- Umbra Emerald ($195): A sophisticated watch featuring a deep emerald tone that adds a touch of luxury to any ensemble.
Missoma
Missoma is known for its demi-fine jewelry that strikes a balance between high fashion and affordability. Their designs are perfect for layering and creating personalized looks.
Signature Piece
- Coterie Chain Necklace ($245): A versatile and chic piece that can be worn alone or layered with other necklaces for a more dynamic look.
Humans Before Handles
Humans Before Handles is a Black-owned business that aims to provide statement pieces rooted in cultural significance. Their designs are bold and conversation-worthy.
Signature Piece
- River Starburst Earrings ($45): Bold, starburst-shaped earrings that are perfect for making a statement at any event.
Studs
Studs focuses exclusively on earrings, offering a wide variety of styles that cater to every taste. Their collections range from minimalist studs to bold, statement huggies.
Signature Piece
- Daisy Huggie ($48): These dainty yet distinctive flower-themed huggies are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any look.
Jennifer Zeuner
Jennifer Zeuner is celebrated for her simple, yet spiritually inspired designs. Her pieces often incorporate symbols and minimalist aesthetics, making them suitable for daily wear.
Signature Piece
- Marta Necklace ($220): A delicate necklace featuring a minimalist pendant, perfect for everyday wear or layering with other pieces.
8 Other Reasons
8 Other Reasons is known for its eye-catching statement jewelry. Their vibrant designs often feature bold colors and intricate details, making them ideal for special occasions and standout outfits.
Signature Piece
- Honey Necklace ($69): A bold statement piece that features a chunky chain design, perfect for elevating any outfit.
Rocksbox
Rocksbox offers a unique jewelry rental subscription service, allowing members to try out trendy pieces before committing to a purchase. This service ensures you can always stay on top of the latest jewelry trends.
Signature Piece
- Slate Huxley Huggies ($38 for members): Trendy, simple huggies that are perfect for everyday wear, available to members of the Rocksbox subscription service.
Rellery
Rellery focuses on ethically made jewelry that combines style with sustainability. All their pieces are crafted from ethically sourced materials and designed to be both beautiful and durable.
Signature Piece
- Pearl Choker Necklace ($125): A sophisticated and timeless piece that features freshwater pearls, perfect for adding elegance to any outfit.
Van Der Hout
Van Der Hout specializes in solid gold and genuine gemstone designs that epitomize luxury. Their pieces are both elegant and enduring, making them ideal for those who seek quality and timeless style.
Signature Piece
- Diamond Evil Eye Stud Earring: An exquisite earring that features a diamond-studded evil eye, blending both beauty and cultural significance.
Summary Table
To simplify your selection process, here is a summary table of the brands and their featured pieces:
| Brand | Signature Piece | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Catbird | Gumball Pearl Ring | $158 |
| Mejuri | Dôme Cuff Bracelet | $128 |
| Fortune & Frame | Flowered Vines Fortune Locket | $78 |
| Aurate | Modern Cigar Band | $80 |
| Amyo | Baguette Huggie Earrings | $42 |
| Please Repeat | Burst Cigar Band Ring | $89 |
| Vanna | Umbra Emerald | $195 |
| Missoma | Coterie Chain Necklace | $245 |
| Humans Before Handles | River Starburst Earrings | $45 |
| Studs | Daisy Huggie | $48 |
| Jennifer Zeuner | Marta Necklace | $220 |
| 8 Other Reasons | Honey Necklace | $69 |
| Rocksbox | Slate Huxley Huggies | $38 |
| Rellery | Pearl Choker Necklace | $125 |
| Van Der Hout | Diamond Evil Eye Stud Earring | Varies |
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend a small fortune to look chic and stylish. The listed brands not only offer beautiful pieces but also ensure that each item is crafted with quality materials and careful design. Whether you lean towards minimalist aesthetics, prefer bold statement pieces, or prioritize ethical and sustainable jewelry, this curated list by CNN Underscored will have you covered.
Enhance your jewelry collection with these affordable options without compromising on style or quality. So go ahead, explore these brands, and find the perfect pieces to complement your unique style.
