Looking for affordable engagement ring options? You’re not alone. A recent survey conducted by TD Ameritrade revealed that younger Americans don’t think engagement rings should cost more than $3,000. At the same time, high-end fashion trends seem to be at an all-time high, popularizing expensive inspiration that may not be giving you the most bang for your buck. Cluster engagement rings may be the style we’ve all been waiting for.
As more millennials are considering taking the next big step (with smaller budgets), we can expect them to be on the search for nontraditional looks that offer a more reasonable price range but still give that classic “wow” factor. Luckily, there are now innovative engagement ring styles available that offer budget-friendly options for a standout ring.
Cluster engagement rings
Cluster engagement rings offer a big-sparkle look without the hefty price tag. Made up of a collection of smaller gems that come together to create the appearance of a bigger diamond, these rings are the perfect alternative to pricey center stones, if you’re open to a more contemporary style.
Trendy and modern
Besides offering a lower price point, cluster engagement rings have been growing in popularity over the years — even some of our favorite celebrities have been seen sporting this distinctive style:
Katy Perry showed off her engagement ring from fiancé Orlando Bloom in February, featuring a unique flower design highlighting a bright red ruby.
In her previous engagement, Scarlett Johansson wore an Art Deco-inspired cluster engagement ring that offered just the right amount of bling.
Christina Applegate combined her wedding and engagement ring for a cluster ring style worthy of an encore (or two).
Exclusive designs
Want to try out this distinctive style for yourself? Here are some of our favorites:
This Pear-Shaped Cluster Diamond Ring comes in our signature shade of 14k rose gold, giving it a unique and feminine look. With 12 round diamonds and a sweet pear-shaped design, this ring is a stunner for only $1,185.
If you’re not a fan of diamonds, our White Sapphire Cluster Ring in 14k Yellow Gold is a steal that offers superior sparkle. Twenty-one round white sapphires come together in this gorgeous cluster design paired with a classic yellow gold band. Shop now for only $680.
For an added pop of color, this Traditional Blue Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Ring is elegant and sophisticated. Sixteen round blue sapphires surround 21 brilliant round diamonds for the ultimate bling — and at $577, you don’t have to worry about going over budget.
Featuring a unique floral-like design, this diamond ring shines brightly with a diamond-encrusted face and band highlighted by 14k white gold. Not to mention, this showstopper is available for just $2,570.
For more rose gold sparkle, this Diamond Floral Ring in 14k Rose Gold has vintage-inspired details complemented by an on-trend design. Fifty-seven round diamonds create gorgeous patterns encircling five larger diamonds, which act as the focal point. You can take this ring home for $1,497.
Other affordable options
If you’re looking for other ways to ensure you and your partner will stay on budget when choosing affordable engagement rings, it can be extremely beneficial to create your own engagement ring by picking out a center stone and setting separately. Doing this allows you to prioritize your budget based on what matters most to you. For example, you may decide to choose a simpler setting, such as a white gold solitaire, so that you have more money to spend on a bigger center stone. Or you may choose to opt for a sapphire or ruby rather than a diamond, which can cut down the price of your ring significantly.
Why shop Shane Co.?
Shane Co. makes it easy to customize your engagement ring in three easy steps: 1. Choose your favorite setting. 2. Choose the perfect center stone. 3. Personalize it with engraving and more! You can even shop by price online or speak with a member of our no-pressure, noncommission staff to figure out how to create your dream ring without breaking your budget. We also offer preset rings in every price range and all our favorite styles.
Because we buy our diamonds directly from the cutters, we are able to get rid of the middlemen and pass the savings on to you. As fourth-generation jewelers, we’ve developed long-standing relationships with our cutters and jewelry vendors, allowing us to get first pick of all newly cut stones. We optimize for quality and offer fair prices that give you the best value in the business.
Still struggling to find the perfect ring? Take our ring style finder quiz to see a list of exclusive Shane Co. designs curated especially for you.
