Over the past several months, internet searches for “cheap engagement rings” have increased by approximately 40% as reported by the Today Show, Raleigh News & Observer, and others.  What this tells us is two things: diamond shoppers aren’t looking to overspend, and more importantly, people are still in love!

So now the question is, when someone types “cheap engagement rings” into a search engine, what are they really looking for? Surely they’re not interested in a poor quality piece. Most, if not all people, want to get more bang for their buck. The most literal translation of the “cheap engagement ring” would go something like “highest-quality-possible-for-a-low-price” engagement ring. Of course, we know no one is going to type that. So, cheap it is. For all those internet searchers in need to proclaim their undying love while still maintaining a positive balance in your bank account, we give you Love for Less, a collection of knock-out engagement rings all priced at $2,000 and under.

Over the past decade, the amount of dollars spent on a diamond engagement ring has been influenced by the pressure to impress and our “Super-Size-Me” society.  Many shoppers are intimidated by the old rule that their ring purchase should be equal to three months salary. While a high budget may be doable for some shoppers, most of us are looking to save our money, particularly in times such as these. Yet, even with the uncertain markets, the tumultuous economy, and the influences of the likes of Suzie Orman, the symbol of commitment that is the diamond engagement ring remains strong.

So, when shopping for your diamond engagement ring, remember that estate and vintage pieces offer great buys that won’t kill your budget. More importantly, be sure that you’re not compromising your quality for a lower price! If you know the right places to shop, you’ll be sure to get your money’s worth!

Sterling jewelry is spectacular in its own right and often overlooked in lieu of higher end gold and platinum alternatives. In our current economic climate, this affordable metal is making a well-deserved comeback. 

Here’s a little history:  Silver is one of the first metals to be used and may have been the first metal smelted from ore. The art of silver working dates back to the ancient Byzantine, Phoenician and Egyptian empires, where silver was forged into domestic utensils, jewelry, buttons, weapons, and many other articles. The silver mines in Mexico and Peruare still the highest-producing in the world, while methods of silver jewelry making among the natives remains largely unchanged today. The niche of silver making in Western society has been a bit more dynamic. Silver’s value as a jewelry and utensil metal made it an early target for ambitious miners, and the discovery of the Comstock Lode in Nevada in 1859 created a silver rush that rivaled the Gold Rush.

 With each new age or decade come new fashions in jewelry. Current styles include necklaces with oversized pendants; particularly stylish on a silk or leather cord; charm and cuff bracelets, large hoops, and the still-popular chandelier earrings. The smart way to stay in the fashion loop this season: sterling silver. It’s affordable yet stylish, and always eye-catching!

Sterling jewelry is usually highly shiny, but can be oxidized or blackened with patinas for a vintage look. Silver is the queen of metals: gleaming and elegant, pleasing to the eye, lavish to the touch. Whether given as a gift (without breaking the bank) or treating yourself, nothing compares with sterling silver jewelry for affordable elegance and fashion forward design.