12 places to buy affordable jewelry that still looks expensive

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• Jewelry can be infinitely expensive, but that doesn't mean you can't find nice-looking pieces for cheap.
• Madewell has fashion jewelry for as low as $10, and you can find fine jewelry at Mejuri for less than $100.
• We put together a list of the best places to find affordable jewelry below.

When it comes to jewelry, the sky's the limit for how much you can spend. A simple ring could set you back anywhere from $5 to $5,000 ... or much, much more. As style editors, we usually subscribe to the idea of investing in quality pieces that'll last a lifetime, but in the realm of jewelry, there's no need to put down a considerable amount of cash if you don't want to. There are plenty of affordable brands that carry pieces that can pass for the real thing.

The key is this: Stick to simple, minimalist designs that won't feel dated after a season or two, and mix in a few playful statement pieces for special events. Below, we share some of our favorite places to find cheap jewelry that looks anything but.

10 of the best places to find cheap jewelry:

Curio

Shop all jewelry from Curio.

Newly-launched jewelry company Curio set out to make diamonds more accessible for everyone, and it's done just that with an entire product line that's under $60. Everything is made from 14-karat gold vermeil and set with natural or lab-cultivated diamonds. The delicate pendants, bracelets, and stacking rings offer exceptional value and make for a luxe gift idea that won't cost you too much.

Koko Capri

Shop all jewelry from Koko Capri.

Another new jewelry line worth having on your radar, Koko Capri has a blend of simple pieces and statement designs that are inspired by fashion, art, and travel. Everything is under $100, starting at around $20 for hair accessories, and going up to $88 for an 18-karat gold-plated chain necklace. Koko Capri also offsets its carbon emissions and cuts out the middlemen to keep prices low. 

Baublebar

Shop all jewelry from Baublebar.

Whether you're looking for a pair of statement earrings to match a party dress or a set of simple, stackable rings for every day, you'll find it all at Baublebar. The e-tailer has long been our go-to for on-trend fashion jewelry at affordable prices. Most pieces run in the $30-50 range, while the demi-fine gold vermeil collections go for slightly higher but still average under $100. Baublebar is also a great place to find customizable jewelry that's perfect for gifting.

Sugarfix by Baublebar

Shop all jewelry from Sugarfix by Baublebar.

If you love the look of Baublebar but want something even more budget-friendly, you should take a look at the brand's exclusive jewelry line for Target, called Sugarfix by Baublebar. There are plenty of tassel earrings, stacking rings, chunky chain necklaces, and more that are just as on-trend as the parent brand, but at prices that start as low as $10 and max out around $30.

Madewell

Shop all jewelry from Madewell.

You probably know Madewell best for jeans and boots, but it's also where you can find some of the best deals on fashion jewelry. No matter if you're a fan of ultra-minimal styles or statement pieces punctuated with beads and gems, Madewell has a little bit of everything. Brushed finishes, mixed metals, and multi-strand necklaces are all signatures, and prices range from $10 to $78.

Astrid and Miyu

Shop all jewelry from Astrid and Miyu.

London-based Astrid & Miyu is home to a large selection of dainty, minimal pieces that could easily pass for fine jewelry. Many of the earrings are sold as single studs and huggies so you can mix and match to create different looks (including ear cuffs that don't require an actual piercing). And, most items are available in your choice of rose gold, yellow gold, or silver. Astrid & Miyu is slightly pricier with earring sets going for around $75 and necklaces for around $98, but everything is made with sterling silver or 18-karat gold plate, and it's still much more affordable than solid gold options.

Gorjana

Shop all jewelry from Gorjana.

If you wear mostly gold jewelry and like to layer your pieces, then you'll love Gorjana. The brand has a healthy mix of dainty, minimal designs like basic hoop earrings and statement pieces like chunky coin necklaces. Plenty of items are under the $50 mark, but you'll also find fine pieces with pave diamonds that run into the hundreds (even at that level, they're still a great value).

Mejuri

Shop all jewelry from Mejuri.

The Insider Reviews team isn't shy about its love for Mejuri. While one of the pricier options on our list, it's where you can find true fine jewelry that's actually affordable, like a pair of diamond stud earrings set in solid 14-karat gold for $240, or solid gold hoop earrings for $55. When it comes to investment pieces, we count Mejuri as one of the best places to pick up beautiful, quality options for relatively "cheap."

Read more: The best places to buy affordable fine jewelry

Etsy

Shop all jewelry from Etsy.

Fine jewelry, costume jewelry, personalized jewelry — you'll find it all on Etsy. Since independent designers and shop owners can skip the retailer markup, you can score beautiful (and in many cases, handmade) jewelry for less. Mila Kunis even picked up her and Ashton Kutcher's platinum wedding bands on Etsy for just $100 each.

Amazon Handmade

Shop all jewelry from Amazon Handmade.

Amazon's jewelry selection can feel overwhelming, but if you're willing to do some sifting, there are plenty of hidden gems — especially in the handmade shop. This section of the site has super affordable pieces that range from on-trend statement styles to dainty earrings and rings with gemstones. Plus, if you're a Prime member, you'll have the added perk of two-day shipping in most cases.

Brook & York

Shop all jewelry from Brook & York.

Along with Etsy, Brook & York has a huge selection of jewelry that can be engraved or monogrammed. Whether it's a set of initials or a special date, this is where you can create custom jewelry that's an ideal gift for yourself or someone else, and the majority of pieces are under $100.

Shashi

Shop all jewelry from Shashi.

When you want to keep up with the latest trends without dropping an entire paycheck, Shashi has affordable accessories that span everything from headbands to hoop earrings. Stackable beaded bracelets and statement necklaces sit alongside super simple pendants, so there's something for just about everyone. 

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