15 Beautiful Budget-Friendly, Alternative Engagement Rings

updated May 3, 2019
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(Image credit: Taryn Williford)

I’m starting to think it’s a very sneaky secret that an engagement ring doesn’t have to destroy your wallet to be the perfect companion to a marriage proposal. Because it’s true: you really don’t have to take a hammer to the piggy bank (or your paycheck for the next three years) to find a stunner worthy of “I do.” And to prove it, here’s your very own budget-friendly engagement ring guide. Looking for classic vibes? Vintage options? Something completely non-traditional? Gang’s all here – and it’s all under $1000. Just try to contain the ring fever. I couldn’t.


Under $200

(Image credit: MinimalVS/Etsy)

Black Diamond Ring

A diamond ring doesn’t have to be uber traditional to have big impact. This tiny black diamond option’s modern lines and black stone are the perfect case in point. ($196, etsy.com)

(Image credit: MinimalVS/Etsy)

Tiny Twisted Band

This super delicate ring is ideal for minimalists. Preferably those who like a little bit of whimsy in their attire. ($165, etsy.com)

(Image credit: Local Eclectic)

Aura Moonstone Ring

The sophisticated cut of this semi-precious stone makes it look miles above its actual price point and the rainbow hues of the moonstone are a gorgeous accessory for that ring finger. ($97, localeclectic.com)

(Image credit: BlissjJewellery/Etsy)

Tiny Diamond Ring

Chic and simple, this slender ring is just the thing for a minimalist. ($120, etsy.com)

(Image credit: Tarin Thomas)

Billy Ring

Sterling silver and Herkimer diamonds may take the cake for the best non-traditional engagement ring. The raw feel of the stone and hammered setting are an aesthetic bonus. ($128, tarinthomas.com)


Under $500

(Image credit: ErinAntiques/Etsy)

Vintage Boho Engagement Ring

With a vintage ring, you know you’ll always have a piece that’s wholly unique to you. And this particular diamond cluster-topped selection is especially scene-stealing. ($290, etsy.com)

(Image credit: Margaret Elizabeth)

Gold White Pearl & Diamond Ring

Between the statement pearl and the bezel-set diamond, this ring is 100 percent one of a kind. ($495, margaretelizabeth.com)

(Image credit: Bario Neal)

Senna Round Ring

Black glass enamel, square band and a designer dedicated to ethical sourcing? Engagement ring goals. ($327, bario-neal.com)

(Image credit: KHIMJEWELRY/Etsy)

Three Stone Round Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

The best word to describe this sparkler is definitely dainty. Dainty and also amazing. ($395, etsy.com)

(Image credit: Barneys)

Loren Stewart Diamond & Gold Spade Ring

This ring. There are practically no words. The open band, the diamond cluster…don’t tell my husband but I’m about ready for a trade-in. ($420, barneys.com)


Under $1000

(Image credit: Catbird)

Painter’s Blue Sapphire Ring

The best thing about modern engagement rings? They can be any stone or style you like. This pale blue sapphire and white diamond combo, for example, is alternatively dreamy. ($675, catbirdnyc.com)

(Image credit: Bliss Lau)

Minimalist Band

Super sleek design and contemporary, minimalist lines equal one incredibly chic engagement band. ($650, blisslau.com)

(Image credit: Jennie Kwon Designs)

Morganite Opal Leaf Ring

A little bit ethereal and completely eye-catching – especially when you consider the price tag – this whimsical setting looks perfect with a color-infused combination of morganite, opals and just a hint of diamond. ($750, jenniekwondesigns.com)

(Image credit: Catbird)

Demi Circlet Ring, White Diamonds

Slim, gorgeous and still budget-friendly, this engagement ring would look as amazing on its own or piled into a stack meant for your ring finger. ($990, catbirdnyc.com)

(Image credit: Victor Barbone)

Bianca Engagement Ring

Art deco design and mixed metals? Match made in heaven. ($650, victorbarbone.com)

See an engagement ring you could fall for? Let us know below!

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