What is the most affordable gemstone?

Semiprecious gemstones like aquamarine, morganite, amethyst, opal, garnet tend to be the most affordable. Precious gems—think sapphires, emeralds, and rubies—are typically more expensive, but rings with these stones can certainly be purchased for less than $2,000.

What's the best diamond alternative?

Moissanite can be mistaken for a diamond—the telltale difference is that it reflects more of a rainbow light where the diamond reflects white light. Moissanite is actually an incredibly rare, hard-to-mine mineral, so it's grown in labs, which is why it's so much more affordable than a diamond. If your heart is set on a diamond, consider lab-grown diamonds, which are nearly identical to the real thing.

How can I be sure my ring is a high-quality one?

Research retailers and talk to people who've shopped at the stores you're considering. A good retailer will be knowledgeable about the rings and gemstones, have a return policy, and—most importantly—be able to provide a gemstone certificate. This is a document from a gem lab that certifies a ring's weight and authenticity.

67 Gorgeous Engagement Rings Under $2,000

Aprés Jewelry The Stella Ring Setting — COURTESY OF APRÉS JEWELRY

Sure, not every bride-to-be is drawn to supersize diamonds, but whether three or more carats is goals or you prefer a daintier approach, cost is always a factor when choosing your engagement ring. Not the most romantic part of your engagement story but a practical aspect that most couples face. Luckily, the market is filled with gorgeous engagement rings under $2,000, whether you choose a smaller diamond, diamond slice, gemstone, antique ring, or cluster ring.

"Consider working with smaller, independent designers rather than large companies who may have inflated costs," suggests jewelry designer Emilie Shapiro. Or, you can check out similar looks with ethical, lab-grown diamonds (they’re a totally legit option) to save a little cash and go bigger with your stone. "The center stone is where most of the cost comes from, so opt for less expensive stones or rustic-cut diamonds instead of a traditional-looking diamond. Moissanite and white sapphires have similar looks and you can get bigger stones at a lower price point."

Meet the Expert

Emilie Shapiro is a NYC-based jewelry designer focused on handmade production and the sustainable use of recycled materials and natural gemstones. She is also the author of How to Create Your Own Jewelry Line and Creative Wax Carving.

An engagement ring under $2,000 hardly means you have to sacrifice. "Select a piece that reflects you, that you want to wear to celebrate your love and pass down to someone special one day," says Shapiro. "You're creating your own tradition, your own family, and you can decide what that looks like and it certainly can stray from mainstream looks."

Ahead, we gathered 57 of our favorite engagement ring options under $2,000.

Introducing VRAI x Brides: Shop our exclusive collection of lab-grown diamond jewelry, perfect for the big day and beyond.

Loop Serendipity Hug Profile East/West Oval Diamond Solitaire

COURTESY OF LOOP

A simple solitaire design with a contemporary edge. This oval diamond is horizontally set for a fresh take on the traditional style. A thin band hugs the stone close to the finger for a low-profile statement.

Stone and Strand Small Baguette Diamond Ring

A geometric design for the modern bride-to-be. A single, white baguette diamond is encased in a thick halo of 14k yellow gold. A barely there band unobtrusively secures the ring without overpowering the look.

Yi Collection Diamond Princess-Cut Petite Circle Ring

A delicate engagement ring for all of the minimalist lovers out there. A princess-cut diamond is set on an 18k yellow gold band. The setting employs a loop fastening that separates the stone from the band itself and is quite unique in the world of bridal jewelry.

J. Luu Pavé Diamond Halo Ring

If you love the romantic appeal of a halo, this dainty piece is just as perfect as its price tag. A round diamond center stone is framed with a halo of pavé diamonds, adding to the illusion of a larger center stone. The ring is set in 14k white gold.

Lane + Lanae The Hop Ring

A dainty, structural design for the minimalist mavens among us. A princess-cut diamond is gently embraced between each end of the wraparound-style band. The ring features a 14k gold, square band with a bezel setting.

Clean Origin Classic Princess Solitaire

Nothing beats a classic. Maximize your budget by shopping for a timeless design that won't go the way of more trendy pieces. This princess-cut, lab-grown diamond solitaire is set on a 14k gold band.

The Forevermark Tribute Collection Diamond Stackable Ring

A textured band can add dimension to a ring without increasing the price tag. This solitaire is set on an intricately beaded band of polished curves. The round diamond center stone is bezel-set in gold.

Satomi Kawakita Homespun Solitaire Diamond Ring

A classic solitaire with heaps of that romantic, antique charm that ensures a piece is exalted to the ranks of prized family heirlooms. A brilliant-cut white diamond is set in 18k gold. But the band is where all the magic happens, quite literally, as its homespun texture looks as if "it’s been worked and kneaded by the hands of fairies."

Barbela Design Diamond Nico Ring

While we're on the subject of interesting bands, how about a chain-link option? This diamond solitaire is bezel-set on a thin band of tiny chain links. For the ultimate comfort, the inside of the ring is polished to silky smooth perfection.

Otem Offset Diamond Ring (Setting)

A statement-making architectural piece for all of the bold babes out there. This lab-grown diamond solitaire has an off-kilter setting for an interesting perspective. The stone is held in place between the ends of an ultra-thick, 14k gold band.

Emilie Shapiro Mirage Path Diamond Ring

Infinity band lovers, rejoice! This five-stone ring has all of the eternity-ring look for a far more attractive price tag. A row of diamond slices is set in 14k yellow gold. We love the raw shapes of the diamonds giving this ring a much more organic aesthetic than its flush, identically shaped counterparts.

"Eternity bands are beautiful but tend to get a bit beat up on the underside of your hand," says Shapiro. "They are also tricky to size if you need an adjustment. Five-stone rings give the seamless look of an eternity band without having to worry about wear and tear from the bottom of your hand."

Blanca Monrós Gómez Florence Solitaire Opal Ring

The tender pearlescent glow of opals is oh so sweet and quintessentially bridal. Here, a diamond-flanked, milky opal is set in 14k yellow gold. The nearly opaque stone has warm-hued flashes of corals, pinks, and gold radiating from its center, perfectly complemented by the gilded glow of the yellow gold.

"When selecting an engagement ring with a nontraditional gemstone, think about how soft the stone is," advises Shapiro. "Opals are beautiful, but they are on the softer side so they can get scratched over time. It's something to be mindful about."

Allurez Cathedral Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring Setting

Opting for a half band of diamonds rather than a full eternity band is another way to stretch your budget. This pavé diamond band only extends halfway around the finger leaving the back polished but still has that infinity look. A diamond center stone is set in 18k white gold.

Emilie Shapiro Rough Diamond Halo Ring

Rough diamonds seem to possess an ancient, organic beauty that is both savage and captivating. "The rough diamond halo ring is one of my most popular styles of engagement rings for nontraditional brides," says Shapiro. "The juxtaposition of the rough and cut diamonds really tells a story of rough and refined." Here, a rough diamond is surrounded by brilliant-cut diamonds and set in recycled 14k yellow gold.

Jennie Kwon Pearl Baguette Equilibrium Ring

Reflect on your past, present, and future as a couple with this triplet ring. Three perfect pearls stand in a row, flanked by baguettes and accented with tiny diamonds. The ring is set in 14k yellow gold.

Shahla Karimi Love V Ring With Pear

Speaking of symbolism, this split-shank band was inspired by love and the "principle that all things exist as inseparable and contradictory opposites." The ring features a single pear-shaped diamond tucked between the shank and set in 14k gold. You can switch up the look of the ring by flipping it and alternating the positioning of the "V" shape.

Michelle Fantaci Nomad Lantern Ring

Diamonds don't always have to be the focal point of a stunning ring. This beauty makes a perfect case with a breathtaking gold design that's accented by the gems, not the other way around. The style consists of several white diamonds set in 14k yellow gold.

Aprés Jewelry The Stella Ring Setting

Customizing your very own ring is the best way to get the look you love at a price point that works for you. Here we have a cushion-cut diamond solitaire setting in gold. From there you can continue to choose the stone and build the ring of your dreams and keep within your realistic budget.

Era Jewelry Mosaic Stack Ring With Diamonds

Even in a smaller carat weight, contemporary cuts will feel utterly spectacular and contribute to an ultra-unique look. A kite-shaped gem on a traditional pavé band is exactly what we had in mind. Here, a colored sapphire center stone is set on a 14k yellow gold, diamond-encrusted band. "Sapphires are actually a traditional engagement ring stone dating back to the Romans," explains Shapiro.

Kataoka Aronia Ring

Not everyone dreams of a full-fledged bauble on their ring fingers. Ornate, jewel-encrusted bands can be equally striking, made even more personal with the addition of hidden engravings and love notes. This piece has a smattering of accent diamonds set on an 18k gold, twisted band.

J. Hannah Demi Signet With Diamond

Signet rings tend to err on the more masculine side of the jewelry spectrum, imparting a strength and boldness to any look. This demi signet ring, however, has a much more feminine appeal with a smaller size and thinner design. The ring showcases a diamond center stone set in 14k gold.

Spinelli Kilcollin Adonis Ring

Not all engagement rings require gems and jewels. This understated design is oh so chic without the adornments of glittering minerals. A single 18k white gold annulet takes center stage as it hugs its 18k rose gold band. The design is based on the mythical love of Adonis and Aphrodite, with the band representing her emotions and the annulet symbolizing Eros's arrow (aka Cupid's arrow) of love.

Carbon & Hyde Elixir Mini Ring

Multi-stone engagement rings from three-stone styles to clusters create the image of a bigger ring for a lot less. This one has all the appeal of a larger, pear-shaped diamond through a strategically placed cluster setting. The ring is available in 14k white, rose, or yellow gold.

Emilie Shapiro Lunar Ring

Inspired by the full moon lighting up the dark night sky and reflecting gently onto the water, this ring features a rose-cut rainbow moonstone surrounded by a halo of rough blue sapphires and set in recycled 14k yellow gold. "Opals and moonstones are some of my favorite stones to work with because they have this amazing inner shine called a flash," explains Shapiro. "My [personal] engagement ring is a pretty, larger rose-cut rainbow moonstone. I love staring at it, and it feels so special."

De Beers DB Classic One Diamond Band

A wedding band is the most enduring symbol of love and unity. Here, a diamond center stone adds the quintessential, contemporary engagement ring characteristic. The style is set in 18k rose gold.

Margaret Cross Ivory Enamel and Diamond Ring

A diamond trifecta cradled in a bed of gold. A round diamond center stone is flanked by two smaller diamonds and nestled in a 14k yellow gold band. A swath of ivory enamel emphasizes the feminine curve of the setting.

Wwake Single Nestled Diamond Ring

Rose-cut diamonds are faceted to reflect as much light as possible, providing a lively glimmer that can rival that of a larger stone. This ring features a diamond center stone set in 14k gold. The gem is nestled in the curve of the band resembling a fresh drop of dew beading off a leaf.

Bario Neal Half-Moon Dyad Ring

Two ethically sourced, white sapphires are bezel-set in a casing of 14k yellow gold. The half-moon design of each stone, along with the central gap between them, could be representative of the two halves that make a whole. This ring is entirely handcrafted and ethically sourced.

Gemvara Alyssa Ring

Here, a pear-shaped, diamond center stone is flanked by diamond accents. The ring is set in platinum.

Ariel Gordon Marquise Wink Ring

We love the dainty take on this marquise ring. While marquise-cuts tend to have a sophistication about them that can sometimes read as a bit stuffy, this fresh and airy design is nothing of the sort. The diamond center stone is set in 14k yellow gold.

Bulgari MarryMe Ring

Bvlgari MarryMe Ring — COURTESY OF BVLGARI

The perfect union of masculine and feminine aesthetics. A bold, architectural band gets a touch of sparkle with the addition of a single glittering diamond. The ring is set in 18k rose gold.

Doyle & Doyle Art Deco Diamond Engagement Ring

The intricate design of an antique ring is incredibly eye-catching whether done in white or yellow gold or a mix of metals. This breathtaking art deco ring originated in 1935 and features a unique hexagonal mount. A diamond center stone is set in a filigree east-west design of 18k white gold.

Smith + Mara Princess-Cut Diamond Stackable Ring

A simple design with a raw, organic elegance about it. A princess-shaped diamond is bezel-set in 14k gold. The super-fine band incorporates an added sense of daintiness to the style.

Emilie Shapiro Solar Plexus Ring

"The solar plexus ring is such an edgy ring while still feeling feminine and timeless," says Shapiro. The ring features a rose-cut rutilated quartz with black inclusions that stand out beautifully against its silvery hue. The stone is framed by a halo of rough diamonds and set in recycled 14k yellow gold.

Helzberg Diamonds 1/2 Ct. Tw. Diamond Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold

Pear-shaped stones always give off the appearance of a larger carat weight due to their oblong structure. Here, a diamond center stone is framed by a double-halo design and set in 14k white gold. The band is intricately detailed with a spiral design and inlaid diamond accents.

Anna Sheffield Celestine Orbit Suite No. 05

The warmth of this copper rutilated quartz is enough to set any heart ablaze. The stone is set on a curved band of 14k rose gold and framed with an identical, secondary band. Two rings for the price of one!

Catbird Odile the Swan Ring

Black may seem like the antithesis of all things bridal, but there is a timeless beauty and undeniable elegance about a black diamond. Here, a rose-cut one is fringed by a single, brilliant-cut white diamond on each side. The design is set on an ultra-delicate 14k gold band.

Diamond Nexus East-West Classic Basket Oval Cut Engagement Ring

All the rules of traditional solitaire settings have been, quite literally, overturned. Here, an oval diamond is horizontally set for a refreshing departure from the predictability of conventional norms.

KatKim Mini Peak Ring

Trillion diamonds have a unique duality about them, they simultaneously speak to an old-world eclecticism and reflect a contemporary modernity. The combination creates a dichotomy of unquestionable timelessness. This ring showcases a single trillion diamond set on a polished, 18k yellow gold band.

Lizzie Mandler Petite Knife Edge Solitaire Ring

A classic solitaire with considerable edge. This band is fashioned with a "knife-edge" design creating a peaked look. A diamond solitaire is set in 18k gold.

Jennie Kwon Marquise Diamond Solo Ring

It doesn't get much more romantic than this. A marquise diamond center stone is flanked by two diamond baguettes and set in 14k gold. To complete the retro aesthetic the band is inlaid with a scattering of accent stones.

Januka Princess-Cut Diamond Position Ring

A bold design with a touch of whimsy. This strong band has the perfect mounting for a round stone, but instead, it is set with a princess-cut diamond that appears to be floating in the center like a single star shining through a round window. It's set in 18k yellow gold.

Vrai The Oval Signet Ring

Traditionally signet rings have been a deeply personal piece of jewelry, often used to seal letters with its owner's crest as proof of the sender's identity. It's not surprising that such a distinguished piece has made its way into the realm of bridal jewelry. Consider this 14k gold, oval diamond signet ring the symbolic marriage of your identity with that of your spouse-to-be's.

1909 by Erica Weiner Machine Age Ring

This beauty was inspired by a vintage piece from the early 20th century. The design presents a row of three diamonds, framed by four accent diamonds positioned at each directional pole. The ring features a corrugated marquise shape and is set in 14k white and yellow gold.

Aurate Large Diamond Solitaire Ring

No need to overcomplicate things. There is an everlasting quality in innate simplicity. Here, a princess-cut diamond solitaire is set in 14k gold.

Charles & Colvard Forever One 2.70CTW Radiant Near-Colorless Moissanite Solitaire Engagement Ring

Much like white sapphires, moissanite makes a dazzling alternative to far more expensive diamonds. Here, a considerable 2.7-carat, near-colorless center stone absolutely stuns. The design is set in 14k yellow gold.

Grace Lee Crown Bezel Diamond Ring

Rose-cut diamonds are faceted in their namesake, rose-bud shape. Unlike other cuts that have a tapered bottom, rose-cut diamonds are flat which gives them a thicker appearance overall. This ring is mounted on top of its 14k gold band, not in line with it, allowing the unique shape to shine.

Roman Malakov Seamless Halo Cluster Engagement Ring

If a cluster ring and a solitaire had a love child, this would undoubtedly be the product. A diamond center stone is framed by a seamless halo of diamonds, creating an invisible setting that mimics the look of a single solitaire.

Mociun White Diamond Stacked Ring

This charming spin on a solitaire sets the stone above the band instead of on top of it. Here, a white diamond sits atop a row of seven smaller diamonds. The ring is set in 14k gold.

Shane Co. Marquise and Round Diamond Ring

Marquise cuts have an innately regal air about them and this glorious design definitely does not disappoint. A marquise-shaped diamond is encircled by a halo and considerable 14k yellow gold frame. The ring features a pavé band comprised of marquise-shaped scallops that mimic the central mount.

Jacquie Aiche Twisted Marquise Diamond Stack Ring

A twisting band to represent the interwoven love that you share with your partner. A horizontal, marquise diamond is bezel-set atop the rope-like band. The ring is handmade in 14k gold.

A.Jaffe Half Bezel East West Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

If it's bold that you're looking for, then you need not look any further. An east-west, emerald-cut diamond is only half bezel-set, allowing light to pour in from the top and bottom. An ultra-thick 18k gold band completes the contemporary style.

Digby & Iona Half Round Ninian

This smoky-olive diamond in a half-moon style is absolutely mystifying. The ring features an olive diamond crowned with a salt-and-pepper diamond half-halo. The design is set in recycled 18k rose gold.

Jacquie Aiche 5 Diamond Kate Ring

This ring is the eclectic alternative to a conventional infinity band. Five graduated diamonds are set in a row with the largest of the bunch sitting front and center. Each piece is individually made by hand and set in 14k gold.

Selin Kent Pear Ring

The perfect wedding band with an engagement ring twist. A pear-shaped diamond is charmingly offset halfway up a thick, gold wedding band. The stone is set in platinum while the ring itself is composed of 14k gold.

Elisa Solomon Anna Karenina Marquise Diamond Ring

A design created with a classic story of forbidden romance and the sheer opulence of a foregone era in mind. A marquise diamond center stone is surrounded by a melee of diamonds and flanked by two baguettes. Set in a platinum band encrusted with diamonds.

Vera Wang Love Collection 5/8 CT. T.W. Princess-Cut Diamond Double Frame Engagement Ring

The addition of a halo to any stone is a great way to maximize its size. And if you really want to go big, you'll make it a double. This princess-cut diamond is framed by not one but two pavé halos. The ring is set on a matching 14k white gold, pavé band with split-shank detailing.

What to Look For When Buying Engagement Rings Under $2,000

Stone

While it's entirely possible to buy a diamond ring for under $2,000, it's worth considering other, more affordable stones in your search. Plenty of lab-grown diamonds and alternative stones are not only much more affordable without sacrificing size, but they're a joy to wear (and stare at), especially if you're looking to make a statement.

If you're hoping for the look of a diamond, moissanite can be a convincing doppelgänger that rivals its durability. Morganite is a pretty-in-pink gem that's a compelling stand-in for a pink diamond. If you're looking for something bolder, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are timeless stones you'll want on your finger for decades, and all are durable enough to be worn daily.

Setting

Simple settings, such as a classic solitaire or cathedral, allow the gem to take centerstage, which can make smaller stones appears bigger. The tiny stones that circle the center stone in a pavé and halo settings can also add impact. If you're not attached to the idea of having one center stone, cluster rings are an elegant, visually interesting way to save money without sacrificing style.

Metal

Gold—be it yellow, white, or rose—may be the, well, gold standard for engagement rings and wedding bands, but it is by no means the only option. Platinum is actually more expensive (white gold was first introduced as a more affordable alternative to platinum), although palladium is a compelling, if less durable, substitute.

Silver is the most affordable metal you'll find among engagement rings, although it's softer and typically mixed with other metals—aka sterling silver—so it can stand up to daily wear. Still, sterling silver is more likely to scratch than other metals. Titanium is a lightweight, scratch-resistant option; however, it cannot be resized. Similarly, tungsten is extremely durable—four times stronger than titanium—and scratch-resistant, but it can also not be resized.

FAQ

What is the most affordable gemstone?

Semiprecious gemstones like aquamarine, morganite, amethyst, opal, garnet tend to be the most affordable. Precious gems—think sapphires, emeralds, and rubies—are typically more expensive, but rings with these stones can certainly be purchased for less than $2,000.
What's the best diamond alternative?

Moissanite can be mistaken for a diamond—the telltale difference is that it reflects more of a rainbow light where the diamond reflects white light. Moissanite is actually an incredibly rare, hard-to-mine mineral, so it's grown in labs, which is why it's so much more affordable than a diamond. If your heart is set on a diamond, consider lab-grown diamonds, which are nearly identical to the real thing.
How can I be sure my ring is a high-quality one?

Research retailers and talk to people who've shopped at the stores you're considering. A good retailer will be knowledgeable about the rings and gemstones, have a return policy, and—most importantly—be able to provide a gemstone certificate. This is a document from a gem lab that certifies a ring's weight and authenticity.

Engagement Ring vs. Wedding Ring: Do You Need Both?

57 Gorgeous Engagement Rings Under $2,000

Budget-friendly stunners for every style.