30 Best Affordable Engagement Rings Under $1,500

What to Look for When Choosing an Affordable Engagement Ring

Stone

Just because you're on a budget doesn't mean you should have to sacrifice any sparkle. With or without a diamond, it's possible to flaunt an affordable engagement ring that still turns heads. "For decades, the diamond has been the premier option for engagement rings, primarily due to its suitability for everyday wear," explains Kanary. "However, there are other stones that can be more affordable, aesthetically pleasing, and durable enough for an engagement ring," she assures.

"Morganite is an excellent alternative stone that can be more budget-friendly. Gems like spinel, sapphire, and ruby are also among the more durable gemstones, and while some varieties can command high prices, you can find a variety of colors and styles that fit a more modest budget," says Kanary.

Setting

Thankfully, when it comes to your setting, there are clever alternatives that cut costs while still achieving an almost identical look. "The most important aspects to a setting are that it is strong enough to hold your stone and that it is aesthetically pleasing to you," Kanary states. "Some of our favorite options for affordable settings are rhodium-plated silver and 18k yellow gold over silver, both of which provide a luxe look while being cost-effective."

"If you're looking for more affordable jewelry that will last, we recommend gold-plated items. You can have a durable metal core with a fine gold exterior—all of which provide an expensive look but are cost effective and simple to maintain over time," suggests Kanary.

Band

Opting for a minimalistic band grants you more freedom to indulge in a bigger or more eye-catching stone. Or, if you're looking to make the band more of the focal point, consider textured bands, split shanks, or less-expensive gemstones for extra embellishment.

"Typically, most people enjoy coordinating their bands to the engagement ring setting, so this would often mean matching metal types and colors. One way to reduce costs is to find an all-metal band without gemstones, or you could choose a mined diamond alternative, such as synthetic moissanite and lab-grown diamonds," Kanary says.

FAQs

• How much should an engagement ring cost? "The traditional convention that many people hold to is to spend the equivalent of three months salary. However, conventions are constantly changing, so prioritize a budget that is within your comfort level," assures Kanary.
• How can I make a diamond engagement ring more affordable? "If your heart is set on a diamond, but you want to maximize your budget, you may want to consider lab-grown diamonds over mined diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, optically, and physically the same as mined diamonds," Kanary states.
• How can I ensure an affordable engagement ring is high-quality? Purchase from a reputable jeweler, and ask yourself: Have I done my research. Do I trust this retailer? Does the retailer provide educational resources and disclosures? Am I able to return the ring if it's not exactly what I want? "Ultimately, the most important question to consider is whether you will love and cherish your potential ring," Kanary says. "And if that's a yes, then go for it!"
• What are the best inexpensive stones that emulate a diamond? "Synthetic moissanite is an excellent alternative to a diamond because of its physical properties. Moissanite offers a more affordable price point, but it still requires a modest budget to invest in a high-quality piece. Additionally, white zircon is a natural gemstone that imitates a diamond visually in its colorless nature and high dispersion," explains Kanary.
• Can I add stones to my engagement ring later? "With a good jeweler, you can do almost anything!" assures Kanary. "You may need to sacrifice some style designs depending on how much you want to add or change, but if you are looking for a simple stone swap, that can be done very easily as long as the stone has similar dimensions. Adding side stones is also a fairly simple task for a jeweler."