If you've done any other perusing on the internet for engagement rings under $1000 (or better yet, $500), you've probably had a good laugh. The majority of the rings seem to made of cubic zirconia and are certain to leave skin green upon contact. Not quite the kind of memory we're looking for, if you know what I'm saying. What we are looking for is something elegant: something that speaks to our personality and won't break the bank. Is that too much to ask? Bridal stress can be daunting, but it shouldn't start with the proposal!
The trick when seeking a budget-friendly engagement ring is to not search for an engagement ring at all. With engagement rings, prices are often marked up, as retailers know that brides-to-be (or nervous grooms-to-be) are willing to pay a premium. There is, however, a plethora of stunning rings that fit the bill—they're just filed under categories like demi-fine jewelry. While comic relief is enjoyable, it's even more enjoyable to find the perfect loop to slip around your finger and wear for a lifetime.
That's why we've rounded up 25 of the most beautiful engagement rings under $1000 (even if they're not listed as engagement rings).
Catbird
Dew Drop Diamond Ring
The beautiful combination of a pearl and diamond uniquely elevates this simple band.
Jennifer Meyer Jewelry
18k Gold Thin Diamond Ring
The solo diamond setting makes this the ideal engagement ring.
Monica Vinader
Diamond Eternity Ring
If you're looking for a band style, this 360-degree line of pavé diamonds sets this ring apart.
The Last Line
Large Solitaire White Topaz Ring
Nearly indistinguishable from a diamond, an alternative gemstone such as topaz can often help you choose a larger stone setting (more bang for your buck!).
Stone and Sand
14-Karat Gold Diamond Ring
With a gold disc surrounded by pavé diamonds, this ring is an eye-catching inversion from your typical engagement ring.
David Yurman
'Wheaton' Petite Ring
Black diamond engagement rings are all the rage with brides looking to differentiate themselves, and black onyx is an affordable alternative.
AH Bogem Studio
Vintage Style Engagement Ring
This ring really looks like it was made for a princess.
Pandora
Timeless Elegance Ring
The vintage-inspired halo setting of this ring is a classic choice for the boho bride.
Zoe Chicco
Bezel Set Ring
Why have one diamond when you could have three?
Lafonn
Lasairre Round Halo Ring
Simulated facet diamonds are another excellent way to ensure all of the sparkle with less spending.
Swarovski
Attract Trilogy Crystal Ring
Swarovski clearly knows how to do romance.
Sarah
Sebastian
Kintsugi Line Gold Diamond Ring
The name of the line, Kintsugi, is named after the Japanese art of piecing back together broken pottery. This celebration of imperfection is beautifully reflected in this whimsical design of the band.
Zoe Chicco
14k Gold Horizontal Diamond Ring
This diamond has an east-west setting, because you know exactly what direction your marriage is going.
Bony Levy
Diamond
18K Gold Bead Stacking Ring
Despite what the name implies, this stunning ring can confidently stand alone.
Lagos
Caviar Spark Diamond Square Ring
Look closely and you will see that the center diamond is not in fact one large square cut, but nine smaller diamonds—this subtly elegant touch is enough to make anyone look twice.
EF Collection
Teardrop Diamond
Topaz Stack Ring
A teardrop-style engagement ring is a personal favorite.
Mejuri
Beaded Diamond Ring
This is a solo diamond setting's rebellious sister who went out and got herself a beaded band boyfriend.
Persée
Zeus 18-Karat Gold Diamond Ring
Certainly not a typical engagement ring, the pierced drop diamond is so extravagant and stunning that I had to include it. You can thank me later.
Jennifer Meyer
18k Gold Thin Ring
Sapphire is another beautiful alternative gemstone if you're looking for something other than a diamond.
Adina Reyter
14k Pavé Band Ring
A pavé diamond band is an engagement classic.
Erth
I Want You Marquise Ring
Diamond, or not? It's hard to tell, but this is a topaz stone with all the glitz and glam of a diamond. Plus, it's called "I Want You," which seems oddly fitting for an engagement ring.
Apres Jewelry
Micro Pave Diamond Ring
At such a significant reduction, this glittering diamond-encrusted band is a steal—perfect for a soon-to-be bride.
Konstantino
Thalia Pearl Ring
A stunning alternative to a diamond or any kind of gem stone is a pearl. This attention-grabbing setting has a vintage and boho feel.
David Yurman
Cable Wrap Ring
Diamonds, black onyx, and silver—oh my!
Sarah
Sebastian
Coral Relic Gold, Diamond and Pearl Ring
I can't get over the stunning setting of the pearl and diamonds in this ring.