Best Jewelry Brands Under $100
Affordable jewelry that looks and feels premium. What to look for in plating, construction, and design to avoid pieces that tarnish or turn green after a week.
Updated 2026-04-15
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Gold vermeil over plating: Gold vermeil (thick gold layer over sterling silver) lasts significantly longer than thin gold plating over brass. It costs slightly more but holds up for years instead of months.
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Sterling silver base: Look for 925 sterling silver as the base metal. It resists tarnishing better than brass or copper and does not cause skin reactions for most people.
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Minimal design: Simple, clean designs age better and look more expensive than ornate or heavily branded pieces. Classic shapes transcend trends.
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Secure closures: Quality lobster clasps, screw-back earring posts, and sturdy jump rings prevent loss. Cheap jewelry fails at the closure first.
Built for your closet
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Jewelry is the fastest way to transform an outfit. TRY helps you see how accessories change the look of your existing wardrobe combinations.
Mejuri offers affordable gold vermeil and solid gold pieces with minimal design. Missoma bridges fashion and fine jewelry with semi-precious stones. Ana Luisa focuses on sustainability and accessible pricing. Astrid & Miyu excels at stackable, layering-friendly designs. Gorjana offers California-inspired basics that layer well.
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Questions, answered.
Will affordable jewelry tarnish?
It depends on the material. Gold vermeil and sterling silver tarnish slowly and can be polished back. Brass and thin plating tarnish quickly and cannot be restored once the plating wears through. Store jewelry in anti-tarnish pouches and remove before showering to extend life.
Is it worth buying solid gold at this price point?
Some brands offer solid 14k gold in simple designs (thin rings, small studs) under $100. These are excellent investments — solid gold does not tarnish, fade, or cause reactions. For larger pieces, gold vermeil over sterling silver is the best quality-to-price ratio.