Like my capsule wardrobe — and like myself — my jewelry collection is ever evolving. If you read my Capsule Jewelry Collection post, you’ll know I tend to stick to only a few pieces that I know I love. However, the nature of blogging (and loving to discover indie brands) is that I do buy and test other pieces. And from this testing, I discover the brands that I learn and love. I guess there are parallels to dating and marriage, no?
As I’ve also spoken about before, I am of the mind to invest in quality over quantitiy, especially when it comes to jewelry. However, I also balk at the prices of high-end jewelry, and sometimes — whether it’s for a gift, or because I actually don’t wear all that much jewelry — I just want something more affordable. In the past, ‘affordable jewelry’ was synonymous with cheap, tacky pieces from H&M, gold color that rubbed off with scant a few years.
Now, I know that affordable jewelry can be so much more than that. For most, the gold doesn’t come off that quickly (if you take good care of it). And for many, the styles and brands are just as beautiful and whimsical, if not more so, than more expensive brands. From ethical brands that support vulnerable communities, to brands that evoke a sense of mythology, I’ve gathered up 5 affordable jewelry brands you need to know about. Thank you for supporting this blog — and for supporting indie brands!
HANDMADE BY MEVVA
My Mevva Picks: 18k Gold Plated Croissant Earrings* (gifted) // 18k Gold Rope Chain Bracelet* // Chunky 18k Gold Aztec Coin Necklace* (gifted)
If you’re looking for gold everyday jewelry that’s ethical, sustainable, small-batch-made, and surprisingly affordable, look no further. Mevva rival big-name brands for cute (dare I say trendy?) styles, while somehow still remaining minimalist. Better yet, their company focuses on providing a stable income for economically disadvantaged communities — so you know you’re supporting a truly heartfelt business. I have the croissant earrings*, which are incredibly lightweight but interesting enough to stand out against my outfits. I also have the Aztec Coin necklace, which is a great affordable alternative to Missoma’s Roman Arc necklace. Both have a solid space in my capsule jewelry collection.
Please note: Mevva kindly gifted me 2 pieces of jewelry to review at no obligation. However, I love the pieces so much that I wanted to share with you this ethical, local jewelry brand.
EDGE OF EMBER
My Edge of Ember Picks: Stellar Charm Earrings* // Constellation Ear Climbers* // Vintage Chain Necklace*
I featured Edge of Ember on my Capsule Jewelry Collection post, as Nick bought me one of their pieces as a wedding present. They have quickly become one of my favorite jewelry brands. Pieces are ethically produced using sustainable materials, and they are very transparent about their processes. Their styles are whimsical and romantic, capturing a spirit that I am instantly drawn to. When I’m not wearing the croissant earrings above, I have these moon & star earrings* in my ears always — yes, even in the shower. The gold has help up for months.
MEJURI
My Mejuri Picks: Libra Signet Ring // Diamonds Pave Evil Eye Ring // Sapphire Twin Hoops
For many, this won’t be a “wow, I’ve never heard of them!” feature here. But, I’d be remiss not to feature Mejuri as an affordable jewelry brand you need to know about. For one, they offer solid gold pieces at pretty reasonable prices (for those who don’t know, solid gold pieces will never tarnish or loose their color, whereas vermeil/plating will eventually over time). But even for the gold vermeil pieces, the color lasts for a long time, the styles perfect, and the prices good. I wear my Libra signet ring almost everyday. And as a side note: Mejuri’s travel jewelry case is categorically the best. Trust me — I did a lot of research to determine that.
THE GOOD FOX
My The Good Fox Picks: Maison Chain necklace // Small Beaded Hoops // Santo Chain Bracelet
I discovered The Good Fox on instagram when I was searching for a not-too-expensive gold chain necklace, and boom, I found it. Their products are seriously affordable, with pieces as low as $10 (making them great Secret Santa gifts). However, it’s the styles and quality that count, and their product selection, while smaller, is precise, the kind of minimal capsule collection where you’d want to take home everything. I layer the Maison Chain necklace with my pendant necklaces for when I’m feeling especially fashion blogger (usually, I’m too busy in the morning to layer necklaces).
AGAPE STUDIO
My Agapé Studio Picks: Theo Ring // Achille Choker // Margot Ring
Agapé Studio is my newest discovery, but one that captures my aesthetic so beautifully. “Jewelry is the last thing left of most civilizations,” they quote, and it’s a thought that’s stuck with me as I select these pieces to share with you. Jewelry is a way to connect to the past; to mythology; and to yourself, and Agapé Studio truly evokes this concept into their designs and branding. And, of course, their pricing is incredibly affordable, with most of their pieces under $100. I can’t speak to the longevity of the gold, but in terms of swoon-worthy pieces that make you excited to buy — you can’t beat this.
*Links indicate affiliate links. This means, if you choose to purchase the product linked here, at no additional cost to you I will make a small commission. Considering this post took me close to 5 hours to put together, it is very, very appreciated. Thank you for supporting sustainable brands, and thank you for supporting this blog!
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