The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.
With its inaccessible prices, technical terminology, and nebulous production practices, the world of fine jewelry is intimidating to step into and, for a generation that cares simultaneously about value, style, sustainability, and ethics, a world to be altogether avoided.
Not too long ago, we wouldn't even have considered buying nice jewelry online, but then again, that's what we thought about mattresses, luxury watches, and wine. With direct-to-consumer jewelry companies taking center stage, no middlemen or mark-ups mean that you can pay a palatable price that's closer to the true cost of making that beautiful gold necklace, while high standards for sourcing and production quell any fears that your purchase sets other livelihoods or the environment back.
Whether it takes the form of a single, thin gold ring, a heavy statement necklace, or dangling earrings that sparkle with every subtle head movement, jewelry is a very personal purchase. These online jewelry companies will help you make the decision without overcharging you in the process.
Mejuri
Shop jewelry at Mejuri
Toronto-based startup Mejuri, founded by a former art director and a former engineer and third-generation jeweler, drops new pieces every week of the year, and without fail, its largely female clientele return again and again to its 14-karat gold, gold vermeil, and sterling silver jewelry that's made for everyday wear. Mejuri's mission is to have women "embrace a daily dose of luxury." With plenty of under-$100 options, it makes fulfilling this mission very achievable.
What to buy:
- Sapphire Hoops, $59
- Rolo Bracelet, $65
- Spiral Earrings, $125
- Engravable Necklace, $259
- Hammered Stacker Trio, $259
AUrate
Shop jewelry at AUrate
AUrate offers both the solid foundation pieces and the unique statement pieces that you'll need for a jewelry refresh. Everything is crafted right in New York City, which also means that NYC dwellers can enjoy same day delivery of 14- and 18-karat gold, AAA pearls, and ethically sourced diamonds (the rest of the country gets free shipping). For indecisive shoppers, Curate is AUrate's personalized jewelry box delivery service that gives you a week to try on five pieces and decide which one(s) you want to keep.
What to buy:
- Flower Earring Back Small, $150
- Inverse Cuff, $220
- Diamond Bezel Ring, $220
- Solid Circle Earrings, $280
- Icon Ring, $380
Catbird
Shop jewelry at Catbird
Hip neighborhood boutique vibes meet the ease of browsing and speed of online shopping at Catbird, where you can find delicate $40 rings alongside sparkly $14,000 engagement rings. It's fully transparent about the source of its materials, and donates 1% of all sales to non-profits including the ACLU and Planned Parenthood. In addition to jewelry that's crafted in-house, Catbird is home to other designers and beauty and home goods.
What to buy:
- Loopdie Earring Gold (Single), $44
- Greco Lariat Necklace, $188
- Gold Safety Pin Earring, $275
- Kitten Mitten, Yellow Gold, $238
- Snow Queen Ring, $1,296
See the rest of the story at Business Insider