For those of us in love, and who are on a tight budget, there are few options out there for a tasteful, affordable diamond ring. Whether its a sweet and simple engagement ring or a promise ring, here are some great finds if your requirements are:
- Real diamond
- Budget of $100
- Sterling Silver or Gold (any color)
Credits: Top to bottom, left to right: One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine.
If you don’t want Cubic Zirconia, or a semi precious stone (even if it resembles a diamond), and are set on a real diamond no matter how small, here are some great finds.. Using the budget $50 – $100 in a search on Etsy (to weed out the unworthy), these are the best results.
Super simple, chic and classic, these are beautiful solitaires. One hundred percent real diamonds, with varying clarity. Etsy sellers usually always offer to make the ring in your size, or use a metal of your choice, so you really can’t go wrong.
Be sure to become familiar with the diamond classification terms, such as diamond Clarity, Cut, and Color. These are good resources to read up on when choosing a diamond.
As for my personal budget ring story: my boyfriend wanted to give me, what he calls, a “real estate” ring. As in, it is claiming the real estate on my ring finger, but isn’t really an engagement ring. We are living abroad, and away from both our families, so he has promised to only give me a true engagement ring when he has met my family. “Promise ring” reminds him too much of impulsive teenagers, and he didn’t want it to lose it’s meaning.
That is my ring there on the left (photo from the listing), and it was an amazing find: a vintage diamond ring from around the 1950s, with an illusion setting (great feature for budget rings), two side diamonds, and solid 14kt White Gold. It was $99 and I couldn’t be happier. I wanted something unique, and original, and I got it. Don’t underestimate the power of ebay, for great antique, vintage rings! They can always be resized by your jeweler if you find the ring of your dreams.
If you are looking for a conflict free, eco friendly, luxurious diamond, be sure to check out Brilliant Earth.
