DTC Jewelry Brands With Unique, Conversation-Sparking Pieces Under $500

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Many DTC jewelry brands have cropped up over the last few years, opening the doors to a whole new world of high-quality, affordable pieces made for everyday wear. Even better: many are designed in-house, handmade, and/or ethically sourced.

With these options available, why pay thousands of dollars for a single piece of jewelry? For me, having a collection of interesting, reasonably-priced pieces is a much more appealing route. That way, I can wear jewelry that’s beautiful and well-made without being on high alert or having a full-on meltdown if I happen to misplace it...which seems to happen...a lot.

If you can relate, you’re in the right place. I’ve curated some of my favorites pieces from DTC jewelry brands as a jumping-off point for your shopping adventure.

Bird + Stone

The Climate Cuff by Bird + Stone is a conversation starter: Made from upcycled brass, it features a line graph showing a 1.4-degree increase in average global temperature since 1880.

Credit: Bird + Stone

That alone is a powerful reminder that the issue of global warming is real. I find this message very similar to the bracelet’s aesthetic—subtle, but clear and powerful. Bonus: It only costs $35.

Bird + Stone is a jewelry brand that has long believed brands can be instrumental in creating positive change. By shopping with them, you support socially responsible organizations while making your own positive impact. With every purchase, 10% of the profits are donated to New York Renews, a coalition dedicated to climate-related efforts.

Pura Vida

Pura Vida’s Crowned Opal Ring stands out in the statement ring category. It’s bold enough to stand out, but not so large as to be considered costume jewelry. The vibrant color of the opal is the detail that commands attention. For just $20, the quality is surprisingly great.

Credit: Pura Vida

There are two finishes to choose from for this ring: rose gold and silver. The iridescent stone in the middle is available in two options as well: blue or white.  Like any Pura Vida product, it comes with a 100% biodegradable polybag, and each purchase also supports artisans around the world. Win-win!

Miranda Frye 

Miranda Frye’s Tatum Ear Crawler earrings are a must-have statement piece at just $60. Made with 18k gold or sterling silver-plated material and cubic zirconia, this pair of earrings features an elegant marquise shape in a curved silhouette. I could not stop tucking my hair behind my ears when I wore these...they scream to be seen!

Credit: Miranda Frye

I also really like that these are small and subtle enough to work well with virtually any outfit. In fact, it makes for a great everyday accessory. They add a little bit of flair for daytime outfits and transition easily into a night out with friends.

Meghan Bo Designs

The Fortune Medallion Necklace from Meghan Bo Designs ($58) features a gold-overlay chain with a gold medallion pendant set with cubic zirconia and blue stones. Again, this piece is perfect for layering with other necklaces.

Credit: Meghan Bo

The details are lovely, too: The pendant features hamsa hands, an evil eye, as well as a moon, star, heart, elephant, and peace symbols--all of which are supposed to bring good luck.

Bryan Anthonys

The Beautifully Broken ring by Bryan Anthonys is a delicate piece made of brass with a 14k gold or silver finish. 

Credit: Bryan Anthonys

What sets it apart is the encouraging message that comes with the ring: to let go of the idea of perfection and embrace our uniqueness. Here’s a snippet from the message on the card that arrives with the item:

“Let go of the idea of perfection — you are not perfect, you are real. Let yourself be flawed, and allow yourself to make mistakes. Recognize that you’re not always going to have it all together.”

This ring looks far more expensive than it is at its $42 price point, and it makes for a great gift if you know of someone who needs a reminder of this message.

Kinn

Kinn’s Love Letter Charm Pendant is one of those classic designs that every woman should have in her jewelry box. It’s the modern interpretation of love letters in the classic Allegro Script font and offers a touch of personalization without being over-the-top; it still feels elegant.

Credit: Kinn


Of course, I chose the letter K for my first name. The size is perfect, and the chain is so delicate that I can even layer it with a longer necklace for a little extra oomph. My favorite part? It’s made of 14k solid gold but only retails for $180. 

IceLink 

The Mini Emerald Evil Eye studs by IceLink are 14K gold earrings featuring a single emerald surrounded by diamonds in the evil eye shape (which is said to ward off bad vibes.)

Credit: IceLink


I like that they are surprisingly lightweight and dainty and pair well with hoops, tassels, or other earrings. The pop of emerald color grabs attention, and these always garner lots of compliments. At $300, they’re a bit more of an investment but are a statement piece worth buying.

Ana Luisa

The layered Temple Green necklace set from Ana Luisa is for those days when you want to take the guesswork out of the layered necklace look. At $92, its two chains are dipped in 14k gold...but the real show-stopper is the gorgeous, green-banded Malachite gemstone pendant. This necklace set is also available with an Onyx gem.

Credit: Ana Luisa

It’s an earth-friendly purchase, too: Ana Luisa pieces are in-house plated, and the manufacturing process is zero-emission.

Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott’s $45 Demi Gold Wrap Ring is subtle but interesting. I like the version made of gold with a light blue magnesite detail at the tip, but other color options include Papaya Mother of Pearl and White Baroque Pearl.

Credit: Kendra Scott

For me, it looks like a delicate piece of art. A nice splash of color complements the ring’s somewhat shiny gold finish. No guessing on the sizing, either: It’s completely adjustable.

Aurate

Aurate’s Venus Organic Pearl Gold Ring exudes a sense of calm and gentleness. It’s crafted from 100% recycled gold and centered around elements of the ocean, resulting in a rich array of intricacies and textures.

Credit: Aurate

At $150, this ring allows you to wear an attainable piece of art. It’s highly unusual in a sea of clean finishes and textures, making it a great statement piece that’s elegant enough to be worn alone.

Gemandi

Gemandi is known for its radiant lab-created crystals, and the $55 Moon Sign ring is no exception. Aside from the moonstone crystal, it’s surrounded by white crystals on the side. The actual ring is made of hypoallergenic brass dipped in 14k gold three times.

Credit: Gemandi

My favorite part of this ring is definitely the stone. It glows a lovely shade of rosy lavender under the right lighting. It instantly makes any outfit look feminine and soft, and looks great paired with a dress and a cute pair of strappy sandals.

Aaryah

Aaryah’s Ura Tribal Ring features tribal markings with a narrow opening. This $175 design is symbolic: It encourages wearers to maintain a firm stance but to stay open to new ideas and possibilities.

Credit: Aaryah

Aside from providing a thoughtful reminder, it makes a stylish addition to my jewelry collection. While it’s not a statement piece because of its minimalist design, it has the right edge to give it a distinctive style. Like most of Aaryah’s products, this ring is ethically sourced, thoughtfully designed, and individually handcrafted.

If you’re looking to spruce up your jewelry collection, hopefully this has provided a solid jumping off point (or even some easy finds) to help you do that. Here are a few other DTC jewelry brands you may want to check out as well:

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