
For those who love to frequently update their jewelry collection, affordable options are essential. However, it's important to avoid simply choosing the cheapest items, as low-quality pieces may tarnish quickly and fail to last.
To uncover jewelry that offers a luxurious appearance without the high cost, we surveyed the entire Mytour editorial team for their go-to brands that combine quality and affordability. With over 20 responses, we compiled a list of 14 standout brands, ranging from large retailers to smaller boutiques. We also gathered insights from Alison Bruhn, co-founder of The Style That Binds Us, and Brenna Lyden, CEO and founder of East West Gem Co.
What defines affordable jewelry?
Affordable jewelry brands are those that typically offer pieces with a median price point of approximately $150.
Etsy

With thousands of choices, you can discover highly unique and customized jewelry pieces.
The quality can vary significantly depending on the seller.
Etsy is a treasure trove for jewelry lovers, boasting over 16 million listings. It was the top recommendation from the Mytour team, with five editors highlighting it as their preferred destination for budget-friendly jewelry.
“Etsy is fantastic because it offers an endless variety—I even found a miniature Anne of Green Gables pendant there as a birthday gift for a friend,” shares features director Amy Maclin. “You can directly communicate with sellers to ensure you get exactly what you’re looking for, all while supporting small artists and their businesses.”
Etsy provides numerous filters to streamline your search, including options for occasion, holiday, gemstone, material, style, and theme. It’s an excellent platform for discovering vintage, handmade, and unique statement jewelry.
“Searching for the perfect jewelry on Etsy can sometimes feel like finding a needle in a haystack, but with a bit of patience and targeted keyword searches, you can uncover truly remarkable pieces,” says senior home editor Hannah Baker.
Managing editor Tara Cox shares the sentiment: “Whether I’m searching for a floating anchor necklace, a KISS band-inspired piece, or a star-adorned ring, Etsy fulfills every whim and often leads me to discover even more unique treasures.”
Etsy truly shines when it comes to personalized jewelry. The platform offers a wide array of customizable options, from name rings to necklaces and bracelets engraved with meaningful coordinates. You can even transform your child’s artwork into a wearable keepsake to celebrate a memorable occasion.
However, it’s important to note that shipping costs and return policies are determined by individual sellers, and the quality of items can vary depending on the shop.
“I don’t want to jinx it, but my experiences with Etsy sellers have always been exceptional,” says contributing senior research editor Maya Kukes. “They’re communicative about shipping, and the thoughtful notes included in packages always bring a smile to my face. The personal touch makes supporting small businesses even more rewarding, and the sheer variety of options is unmatched. Etsy genuinely offers something for everyone.”
Price Range: $2–$50,000 | Jewelry Types: Necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets, watches, body jewelry | Return Window: Varies by seller
Etsy Editor’s Top Picks:
- Handmade Art Deco Earrings by L. Greenwalt Jewelry
- Minimalist Dome Ring for a Sleek Look
- Miniature Book Locket from Vintage Charmed Books
- Owl Pendant Necklace by Sweet Silver Co.
Mejuri

The brand offers an extensive collection of jewelry, featuring dedicated sections for men and wedding accessories.
The designs lean heavily towards minimalism, which may not appeal to those seeking more elaborate styles.
Mejuri distinguishes itself by providing high-quality fine jewelry at accessible prices. Their collection includes pieces crafted from 14-karat gold, yellow gold, and adorned with precious stones like white sapphire, pearls, and even diamonds, making them excellent earring options for sensitive ears. Among their most affordable offerings are earrings, such as 14-karat yellow gold studs, pearl drop earrings, and single diamond studs, all priced under $100.
“I absolutely adore Mejuri,” shares shopping editorial director Nicole Lund. “I own several pieces from the brand, including gifts I’ve received and those I’ve given to others. Every item I’ve purchased from Mejuri has been exceptional in quality, design, and durability—my oldest piece, which I’ve had for about five years, still looks as stunning as the day I got it.”
VP Kate Geraghty echoes this sentiment: “What I truly appreciate about my Mejuri pieces is how well they’ve held up over years of consistent wear. While some affordable jewelry brands show signs of wear quickly, my Mejuri rings have remained as pristine and vibrant as when I first bought them. Although the solid gold pieces come at a higher cost, I believe they’re worth every penny, especially the rings, which offer incredible value for their price.”
Mejuri is renowned for its minimalist hoop earrings, available in a variety of styles, including beaded and diamond options. Additionally, you can purchase charms to customize your hoops, allowing you to create a more personalized and striking look.
The majority of Mejuri’s collection caters to minimalist tastes, which might not satisfy those seeking bold, colorful jewelry. However, the brand also features a men’s section with chains, necklaces, and rings. Additionally, they offer wedding bands for both men and women, along with elegant yet understated engagement rings.
Price Range: $38-$8,400 | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, chains, bracelets, rings | Return Window: 30 days
Mejuri Editor Picks:
- Slim Signet Ring
- Sapphire Choker
- Bold Pearl Drop Earrings
- Boa Gemstone Coil Ring
Gorjana

The brand offers extensive personalization options for its jewelry, such as birthstones, initials, engravings, and charms.
Silver jewelry options are quite limited.
Gorjana is a premier destination for gold jewelry, offering a stunning array of both timeless and unique designs that are destined to become lifelong favorites. Their collection features elegant pendant necklaces that can be adorned with various charms, such as hearts, lockets, or even a jeweled bee. Additionally, you’ll find signet rings, chain-link bracelets in both slim and bold styles, and a wide variety of hoop earrings.
“Gorjana is my top choice for affordable yet high-quality jewelry,” says shopping editor Lily Gray. “Living right across the street from their store doesn’t help my wallet! I own multiple earrings, bracelets, and necklaces from Gorjana, and after years of daily wear, none have tarnished or lost their quality. Their collection of versatile, stylish pieces complements almost any outfit.”
Lily is especially fond of the Lou Hoops, which she wears daily. This brand is an excellent choice for those with multiple ear piercings, as it offers a wide range of studs, huggie earrings, and layering sets to mix and match.
Gorjana also boasts an impressive selection of affordable fine jewelry. Their collection includes 14-karat gold pieces and jewelry featuring opals, pearls, and diamonds. “I bought two items from their fine jewelry line for my sister to commemorate the birth of her daughters, and they still look as radiant as ever,” Lily shares.
Additionally, Gorjana provides numerous customization options for your jewelry. Beyond monogrammed pieces, you can choose from astrological necklaces, birthstone earrings, and a variety of engravable designs to make your jewelry truly unique.
Price Range: $25-$135 | Jewelry Types: Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, charms | Return Window: 30 days
Gorjana Editor Picks:
- Lou Hoops
- Compass Coin Necklace
Astrid & Miyu

60% of its jewelry is crafted from recycled metals, making it an eco-conscious choice.
Earrings are non-returnable, which may be a drawback for some customers.
Astrid & Miyu is a London-based jewelry brand renowned for its modern and stylish designs. Their collection includes a variety of pieces, such as zodiac and initial pendant necklaces, minimalist and bold rings, and stackable jewelry sets. A standout feature is the ability to easily filter earrings by piercing type, making it a go-to for diverse jewelry needs.
The brand offers a wide range of earrings suitable for conch, helix, tragus, and lobe piercings. Their selection includes budget-friendly sterling silver pieces plated with 18-karat gold, as well as premium solid 14-karat gold options for those seeking higher-quality jewelry.
Shopping editorial director Nicole Lund discovered Astrid & Miyu while searching for “permanent jewelry”—jewelry that is welded on and cannot be removed. “I chose to get a bracelet ‘zapped’ on and, after researching, decided on Astrid & Miyu. The experience was excellent, the pricing reasonable, and the quality outstanding. I was concerned about tarnishing since I can’t remove it, but after six months, it still looks as good as new!”
Astrid & Miyu is also dedicated to sustainability, offering a silver jewelry recycling program and an entire collection crafted from recycled sterling silver. However, with only one U.S. store in New York City, customers outside the area can’t view pieces in person before purchasing. NYC visitors can enjoy additional services like welding, piercing, and even tattooing.
Price Range: $40-$490 | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets | Return Window: 28 days; earrings and huggies are non-returnable
Astrid & Miyu Editor Picks:
- Astrid Chain Bracelet
- Wave Ring
Madewell

Frequent sales make it an ideal spot to experiment with new styles without breaking the bank.
The quality can be inconsistent.
Madewell is the perfect destination for everyday jewelry that blends current trends with timeless appeal. Their collection features popular styles like layered necklaces, stackable rings, chain-link bracelets, and classic gold hoop earrings.
“The quality of Madewell’s jewelry is impressive—pieces I’ve bought from them have lasted me for years,” says senior home editor Leslie Corona. “Madewell offers a fantastic mix of unique and classic designs, which I absolutely love. No matter your outfit, you’ll find something from Madewell that complements it perfectly.”
Madewell’s jewelry is designed to enhance your look rather than dominate it, so you won’t find many bold, colorful statement pieces. Instead, expect a range of understated, elegant options suitable for various settings, from the office to weddings.
“As a fan of minimalist jewelry, Madewell’s collection is a dream come true!” says shopping writer Jamie Fischer. “I especially adore these gold hoops because, even with just one piercing, they create the illusion of a double piercing.”
The brand also offers a limited but playful selection of jewelry for those with eclectic tastes. Additionally, you’ll find watches and fine jewelry, though these come at a higher price point. “The sales are fantastic!” Leslie adds. “You can snag already affordable pieces at even lower prices.”
Price Range: $20-$600 | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets | Return Window: 30 days
Madewell Editor Picks:
- Chunky Double Huggie Hoop Earrings
- Katie Dean Jewelry™ Artist Face Necklace
Pavoi

All items are priced under $85, making them highly affordable.
The collection is limited to gold jewelry and very simple designs.
While it may seem obvious, Amazon truly offers an impressive range of affordable jewelry. Among the countless brands available, Pavoi stands out, as highlighted by editorial apprentice Megan Lenzi:
“I first came across Pavoi on Amazon a few years ago, and since then, I haven’t looked elsewhere for jewelry. Pavoi’s extensive collection includes necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, and more. My absolute favorite is the 14k gold-plated hoops, which come in various sizes and thicknesses to match any style. Pro tip: None of my Pavoi pieces have ever tarnished.”
Pavoi jewelry is also available at Walmart and on the brand’s official website. The brand specializes in gold jewelry, offering 14k solid gold, yellow gold, white gold, and gold-plated options. With prices topping out at $83 (for their most expensive necklaces), Pavoi is the most budget-friendly brand on our list.
This brand is ideal for purchasing everyday essentials that are durable and worry-free, though it’s not the best choice for bold, statement pieces. While there’s a small selection of jewelry featuring colorful stones, none are particularly striking or attention-grabbing.
Price Range: $11-$83 | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, anklets | Return Window: 30 days
Pavoi Editor Picks:
- 14K Gold Plated Hoop Earrings
- 14K Gold Plated Croissant Dome Ring
- 14K Gold Plated Tennis Bracelet
- 14K Gold Plated Love Ring
Ana Luisa

The brand prioritizes transparency and eco-friendly practices, achieving carbon and water neutrality.
Its jewelry tends to be delicate, making it less suitable for those seeking bold, statement pieces.
For eco-conscious shoppers, Ana Luisa is a standout choice. The brand is dedicated to ethical production, ensuring carbon and water neutrality across every stage of its jewelry-making process.
The brand also emphasizes recycling, incorporating recycled sterling silver into some of its gold-plated jewelry. This eco-conscious approach is reflected in a portion of the pieces available on Ana Luisa’s website.
Ana Luisa offers a variety of rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, primarily in gold, with some pieces featuring cubic zirconias. While silver options and bold statement jewelry are limited, the brand’s collection is rich in earrings and necklaces.
The brand specializes in understated yet distinctive pieces that stand out without being overly flashy. Many designs include charms or colorful gemstones, adding a touch of uniqueness.
Shopping editorial director Nicole Lund is a recent fan: “I impulsively bought two pairs of earrings from Ana Luisa, and they’ve quickly become favorites! They’re unique yet versatile—perfect for any outfit while still feeling special. The Gemstone Hoop Earrings, in particular, look far more expensive than their price, and I’ve received countless compliments on them!”
Price Range: $29-$350 | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings | Return Window: 30 days
Ana Luisa Editor Picks:
- Dobby Gemstone Hoop Earrings
- Classic Mini Hoops
Anthropologie

The brand offers a wide array of bold statement pieces crafted from unique materials and textures.
The quality of the jewelry can be inconsistent.
If you’re drawn to vibrant, textured jewelry, Anthropologie’s extensive collection will captivate you. The brand features earrings, bracelets, rings, and necklaces made from pearls, semi-precious stones, rattan, wood, glass, embroidery, and shells. These pieces can effortlessly complement casual outfits or add a touch of elegance to formal attire.
Home director Erica Finamore is particularly fond of the brand’s earrings: “Anthropologie has the best statement earrings! They constantly add new designs, and the frequent 40% off sales are a huge bonus.”
Anthropologie is also a fantastic destination for body jewelry, offering anklets, hand chains, belly chains, and even chest and back draping chains. For those who prefer understated styles, the brand also carries classic jewelry, including stone rings, bangle bracelets, gold hoops, and monogrammed pieces.
“Having worked at Anthropologie, I can say the jewelry quality varies,” notes shopping editorial director Nicole Lund. “Some items are exceptional, while others tarnish or break quickly. I’ve had success with earrings and certain necklaces—and even if something doesn’t last forever, the affordable prices make it worth it, especially compared to their clothing. It’s a great spot to experiment with trendy styles without breaking the bank!”
Price Range: $20-$6,500 | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets, watches | Return Window: 30 days
Anthropologie Editor Picks:
- Delicate Monogram Necklace
- Uncommon James Chain Huggie Earrings
BaubleBar

It’s an excellent destination for quirky, unconventional jewelry as well as timeless classics.
Silver jewelry is not available in their collection.
BaubleBar provides a diverse range of affordable jewelry, from everyday staples like chain necklaces and gold bangles to unique novelty items such as a Mickey Mouse tennis bracelet. The brand is particularly renowned for its extensive selection of earrings, which far surpasses the variety of other jewelry types on its site.
The brand offers a vast assortment of earring styles, including cubic zirconia studs, jeweled statement drop earrings, bold hoops, cuffs, and even crawlers. Additionally, you’ll find a charming collection of whimsical earrings featuring designs like animals, food, drinks, and more.
SVP Dwyer Frame is a fan of BaubleBar: “BaubleBar is my go-to for both personal purchases and gifts. I appreciate how it balances trendy pieces with classic and personalized options. With prices ranging from budget-friendly to over $100, there’s something for every budget.”
BaubleBar also offers rings, anklets, and charms for charm bracelets. Their fine jewelry collection is surprisingly affordable, with earrings starting at $24, bracelets at $38, and necklaces at $42. However, the brand’s selection lacks silver jewelry options.
Price Range: $18-$325 | Jewelry Types: Bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings, anklets | Return Window: 30 days
BaubleBar Editor Picks:
- Pisa Necklace
- Skye 18K Gold Layered Bracelet
Kate Spade

Many of the brand’s pieces are available at department stores, allowing you to see them in person before purchasing.
There are limited options for those who prefer minimalist styles.
If you’re drawn to vibrant, playful novelty jewelry, Kate Spade is a must-visit. The brand excels in creating statement pieces that exude youthfulness and joy, making it an ideal choice for gifting to maximalists. For minimalists, Kate Spade also offers classic designs like studs, tennis bracelets, and initial necklaces.
The timeless Initial Pendant is a favorite of shopping writer Lauren Taylor: “I’ve owned this necklace for years, and it still looks brand new. It hasn’t tarnished or scratched, even after countless wears. (I avoid getting it wet and don’t wear it with other jewelry to keep it pristine.)”
Kate Spade also offers a variety of unique watches and Apple Watch bands for those who enjoy accessorizing functional items. For fans of novelty jewelry, the brand’s website features an entire section dedicated to quirky pieces, including charm bracelets, bold earrings, and designs inspired by seasons or hobbies. Additionally, Kate Spade jewelry is available at department stores, allowing you to view and try on pieces before purchasing.
Price Range: $32-$350 | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, rings | Return Window: 30 days
Kate Spade Editor Picks:
- Initial Pendant
- Heart Of Gold Idiom Bangle
Rocksbox

You can explore new jewelry styles and types every month.
Perks are exclusive to members only.
Rocksbox stands out from other jewelry sites as a jewelry rental service. For $21 a month (including shipping), you can rent three pieces at a time and receive a monthly credit of the same amount to use toward purchasing any jewelry you wish to keep. Pieces are chosen by you or a stylist based on your preferences, such as gold vs. silver or statement vs. delicate designs.
“I’m a jewelry enthusiast, so I adored my Rocksbox subscription,” says features director Amy Maclin. “For $21 a month, you can select three pieces to keep as long as you like, with the option to swap them for new ones anytime. It’s like having an endless jewelry collection!”
Both members and non-members can shop from the Rocksbox store, which features designer brands like Kendra Scott, Kate Spade, and Lele Sadoughi. This subscription service is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with new styles and frequently updating their jewelry collection. It’s also a great choice for special occasions like weddings or vacations, where you might want to wear something different from your everyday pieces.
Price Range: $21/month for membership; jewelry ranges from $33-$225 for members | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, body jewelry | Return Window: 180 days
Rocksbox Editor Picks:
- Demifine by Rocksbox 18k Gold Plated Solid Hoops
Sézane

The brand focuses on distinctive shapes, materials, and textures.
The collection is relatively limited in size.
French retailer Sézane brings a touch of European sophistication to the American jewelry scene. Each piece is exquisitely crafted, exuding elegance whether it’s a delicate pendant necklace or bold hoop earrings. The collection primarily features gold jewelry, along with beaded necklaces, stone rings, and bracelets.
“I absolutely love Sézane!” says senior home editor Leslie Corona. “The pieces are wonderfully eclectic—each has a quirky yet refined aesthetic. Since Sézane isn’t widely known in the U.S., you’re unlikely to see others wearing the same designs. It feels truly special! Plus, the jewelry arrives in beautiful patterned boxes or pouches that I reuse for other purposes.”
The most captivating aspect of Sézane’s jewelry collection is undoubtedly its earrings. You’ll discover stunning drop and hoop designs that are perfect for resort wear, including vibrant styles ideal for summer getaways.
It’s worth noting that Sézane’s jewelry collection is seasonal, meaning pieces available now might not be there in a few months. This adds an element of exclusivity to their offerings.
Price Range: $50-$160 | Jewelry Types: Earrings, necklaces, rings, bracelets | Return Window: 30 days
Sézane Editor Picks:
- Felipa Necklace
- Amandine Earrings
Verameat

Every item is meticulously handcrafted, boasting a distinctive, bold aesthetic that sets it apart from the rest.
Returns are not an option, though exchanges are permitted within a 30-day window.
Verameat, a brand adored by celebrities and founded by a woman, focuses on creating bold, statement-making jewelry such as necklaces with barbed wire motifs, rings shaped like snakes, and earrings inspired by tarot cards. It’s perfect for those who dare to stand out! Crafted in the heart of New York City, each piece showcases intricate, handmade details that are truly one-of-a-kind. This brand is also a fantastic choice for gift-seekers, offering a range of unique items that cater to both lovers of bold statements and those who prefer understated elegance.
“Verameat offers unparalleled statement jewelry that exudes elegance and timelessness,” shares senior shopping editor Taylor Rock. “Their stunning, long-lasting pieces effortlessly complement your existing collection, with each design showcasing character without being overly flashy. I frequently wear the Barbed Babe Necklace, and the Sweet Tooth Necklace is next on my wishlist. While the prices may seem steep initially, the brand consistently offers discounts of 70% or more.”
One drawback is Verameat’s limited customer service due to its small-scale operations. Refunds or returns are not permitted unless the item is damaged within 30 days of purchase. However, exchanges for a different item or size are allowed within the same timeframe.
Shipping times are also longer compared to other brands, ranging from one to five weeks for standard delivery. Despite this, the brand’s bold and uniquely crafted jewelry is sure to make a lasting impression.
Price Range: $38-$780 | Jewelry Types: Necklaces, chokers, rings, earrings, bracelets, pins | Return Window: No refunds, only exchanges; returns can be made on broken items within 30 days
Verameat Editor Picks:
- Barbed Babe Necklace
- Sweet Tooth Necklace
Vitaly

Every item is crafted from robust stainless steel and backed by a lifetime warranty.
The designs tend to be bold and bulky, which may not appeal to those who prefer sleek, minimalist styles.
Like Verameat, Vitaly focuses on bold, modern jewelry designed for those who dare to stand out. Each piece is crafted from stainless steel, with most designs available in gold, silver, or black finishes. The brand’s standout items include chains, ranging from bold necklaces to sleek bracelets that remain timeless. Additionally, you’ll find an array of rings, earrings, and pendants to complete your look.
Assistant editor Hannah Dorough is a big fan of Vitaly: “I adore Vitaly for its unique twist on classic designs and its exceptional quality!” Her top pick is the Basis Ring, which combines two curved rings connected by a delicate cable chain.
A key highlight of Vitaly is its lifetime warranty, applicable to all jewelry. While it doesn’t cover lost items, typical wear-and-tear scratches, or damage from improper use or storage, this perk is rare among non-fine jewelry brands.
Additionally, every piece is designed to be unisex. However, it’s worth noting that most designs are quite bold and chunky, offering limited options for those who prefer minimalist, understated styles.
Price Range: $40-$250 | Jewelry Types: Chains, rings, earrings, bracelets, pendants | Return Window: 30 days
Vitaly Editor Picks:
- Basis Ring
- Dropp Earrings
How to Shop for Affordable Jewelry Like a Pro
Metal
While shopping, prioritize pure silver and gold options. Unlike plated or sterling silver, pure metals won’t fade, rub off, or tarnish over time. Although pure gold and silver come at a higher price, their durability and longevity make them a worthwhile investment.
In the world of silver, the two most common types are pure silver and sterling silver. While sterling silver contains over 90% silver, the remaining portion consists of other metals. For gold, purity is indicated by karats—the higher the karat, the closer the piece is to being pure gold.
A karat measures the proportion of gold in a jewelry item. Pure gold is 24 karats, and lower karat values indicate a mix of gold with other metals, similar to how sterling silver combines silver with additional materials.
“For everyday wear, I recommend 14K gold as it strikes the perfect balance between durability and affordability,” advises Lyden.
Style
Ensure the jewelry aligns with your personal style, but don’t hesitate to experiment. Affordable jewelry allows you to frequently update your collection without spending a fortune.
This allows fans of minimalist designs to explore bolder, more playful styles without a significant financial commitment to pieces they might not wear frequently.
“Opting for jewelry that appears high-end but isn’t classified as ‘fine’ jewelry can save you a considerable amount,” Bruhn explains. “This way, losing an earring, dealing with a broken piece, or misplacing an item isn’t a major loss.”
Shipping and Returns
When buying jewelry online, always review shipping and return policies. Most budget-friendly jewelry brands provide free standard shipping, though order minimums often apply.
If free shipping isn’t available or your order doesn’t meet the minimum requirement, delivery fees can increase costs. Additionally, expedited shipping may come with extra charges, especially for last-minute purchases like gifts.
Before making a purchase, review the return policy to ensure you can return items if they don’t meet your expectations—like a bracelet that looks different in person or a ring that doesn’t fit. (Tip: Check out how to measure your ring size for a perfect fit.)
Most recommended sites offer a 30-day return policy, but always verify exceptions, as clearance or customized items may not be eligible for returns.
Questions You Might Ask
What’s the Difference Between Gold-Filled and Gold-Plated Jewelry?
While shopping for budget-friendly jewelry, you’ll encounter terms like gold-filled and gold-plated. Although they sound alike, there’s a notable distinction between the two.
“Gold-plated jewelry features a thin layer of gold over a base metal, such as sterling silver, brass, or copper,” explains Lyden. “Gold-filled jewelry follows a similar principle but contains more gold and less base metal, making it more durable and valuable.”
Properly cleaning gold-plated jewelry is essential, as it can tarnish or lose its color if mishandled. Gold-filled jewelry, with its higher gold content, is often regarded as a close alternative to solid gold, according to Bruhn.
Why Does Some Jewelry Make Your Skin Turn Green?
Green skin from jewelry occurs due to copper content, which reacts with moisture, lotions, or natural oils on your skin. This harmless reaction can be easily cleaned with soap and water. In low-quality jewelry, copper is often the primary material, coated with a thin layer to mimic higher-quality metals.
To avoid this, apply clear nail polish to the parts of the jewelry that touch your skin, creating a protective barrier. However, this requires frequent reapplication, so investing in copper-free jewelry is a more practical solution.
How Do You Prevent Jewelry From Tarnishing?
Tarnishing occurs when jewelry interacts with everyday elements like air, fabrics, or food. “Sterling silver tarnishes upon contact with water or through oxidation, a natural process that happens over time,” explains Lyden. She notes that gold jewelry, particularly white gold, can also lose its luster.
To prevent tarnishing, take extra care of your jewelry. “Apply perfume, hairspray, or similar products before putting on affordable jewelry,” advises Bruhn. “If you forget, gently wipe the jewelry with a damp cloth to remove any residue that could harm it.”
After each use, clean your jewelry with a microfiber cloth. Periodically, give it a deeper clean by gently scrubbing with a soft brush dipped in warm water and mild dish soap. Alternatively, use a store-bought jewelry cleaner, ensuring the pieces are completely dry before storing them.
Proper storage is also key. Organize your jewelry to allow space between pieces, preventing scratches and tarnishing. Fabric bags included with jewelry purchases are ideal for keeping items separate and prolonging their lifespan. Bruhn recommends soft pouches for silver jewelry to slow tarnishing.
Take Our Word for It
This piece was authored by Rachel Center and revised by Nicole Lund, the shopping editorial head at Mytour. We gathered insights from the entire Mytour editorial team to identify top affordable jewelry brands and products, alongside tips for finding high-quality yet budget-friendly pieces. For expert guidance, we consulted Alison Bruhn, co-founder of The Style That Binds Us, and Brenna Lyden, CEO and founder of East West Gem Co.