If you’ve been burned one too many times by gold-plated jewelry that looks gorgeous for a few months only to slowly lose its luster, this article is for you. Previously, there was a huge price gap between solid-gold and plated-gold jewelry, making it hard for women on a budget (aka almost all of us) to build a jewelry wardrobe with solid-gold picks. But thanks to some miraculously game-changing startups that cut out a lot of the traditional price markup, that’s no longer the case. It’s entirely possible to find chic solid-gold jewelry at affordable price points, and just to make it even easier for you to make the switch, we rounded up our favorite picks.
There are a few benefits to wearing solid gold. First, the freedom! You can take showers, work out, and basically just live your life without taking off your pieces. Secondly, because they stay looking lovely forever, these are pieces you wear well into old age and pass down to your loved ones. We think the value is pretty clear, so go ahead and shop affordable solid-gold options that are fashion editor–approved.
Tacori
Why It's a Winner: I own this piece myself (that's me in the picture above!), and I can attest that once you put on this bracelet, you'll never take it off. I'm a sucker for anything customizable, and it makes a great gift, too. Perhaps one for you and one for your best friend this holiday season?
Maria Tash
Why We're Obsessed: Maria Tash in inspired by Indian and Pakistani designs. We adore her opal pieces, as the iridescent stone has been trending for a while.
The Last Line
Why It Made the Cut: The direct-to-consumer jewelry landscape was dominated by minimal, classic designs—that is until The Last Line burst onto the scene. With colorful, on-trend offerings, the brand is "rewriting the rules of the jewelry world one finely priced diamond at a time," according to its site.
We've got a ring for everything—and everyone. This Diamond Baby Ring is perfect little piece, with a dainty diamond pavé shape set against the 14K yellow gold band. Details: 14K yellow gold with a white diamond Approximately:1.5mm width, 3.2mm height Available in size 3-8 Average carat weight: 0.15cts
Alison Lou
Why You Should Get It: Fashion and fruit are a pairing the style world never seems to get sick of. We love how Alison Lou speaks to the girl who wants to wear a cherry stud and also wants it to be 14-karat gold.
Mejuri
Why You Should Be Interested: Mejuri's prices are super low for super-high quality. I love how it has an entire section on its site just for solid-gold picks.
Vrai & Oro
Why They're It: We love how Vrai & Oro gives the consumer control by letting them pick different necklace lengths. As for why we chose this one? Initial necklaces always come back in style, and we particularly adore the font that these necklaces come in.
AUrate
Why AUrate? AUrate is transparent about its pricing and sourcing. Did you know this darling pearl anklet would cost $468 at traditional retail prices? As an extra bonus, a book is given to a child who needs it with each purchase.
Cyril Studio
Why We're All About Them: Catbird was very early to the scene of high-quality jewelry at affordable prices. We can see why its stocks these earrings by Cyril Studio, which are handmade by an artist in New York City.
Noémie
Why We Love It: It's always a good time to honor your mama. Although this pick is gold, Noémie's diamond pieces are all certified conflict-free.
Melissa Joy Manning
Why You Should Add to Cart: Melissa Joy Manning uses recycled gold and traditional metalsmithing techniques to produce her stunning jewelry pieces. We love how these are mismatched on purpose.
Jennifer Meyer
Why You Need These Too: Jennifer Meyer has a rather large fan club of celebrity followers. Give your lobes the A-list treatment with these pretty solid-gold earrings.
