The phrase "fine jewelry" makes me think of super-wealthy women draped head-to-toe in diamonds or over-the-top family heirlooms. But sometimes, you want a really special piece, whether it's to commemorate a special occasion or simply to stand up to daily wear and look good with everything in your closet.
Well, the internet is disrupting everything, the fine jewelry market included. Not only are there many affordable fine jewelry brands cropping up, to offer quality pieces in cool silhouettes, but the products are also often made with an emphasis on sustainable materials.
The ethical concerns when buying real jewels, especially diamonds, are very real. Many newer brands claim to have made responsible sourcing a top priority and focus on transparency in their business models.
Of course, "affordable" is relative, but it's absolutely possible to get quality gold and silver jewelry for less than $1,000 these days, as well as sustainable diamonds that are reasonably priced. You just have to know where to look. These direct-to-consumer brands minimize markup to keep prices down and pay close attention to design. Many of them have pieces that cost less than $100 if you're willing to skip the fancy stones. Happy jewelry shopping!
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Catbird, the Brooklyn, New York-based company best known for dainty stackable rings, carries pieces from trendy brands like Bittersweets NY and WWAKE alongside its namesake collection. The selection is great for minimalists, maximalists, and everyone in between.
Prices are wide-ranging — everything from $35 for a tiny pearl ring to $4,480 for the Three Cosmos Ring. While rings are Catbird's bread and butter, you can also find necklaces, earrings, bracelets, anklets, and lifestyle items like candles and paper goods. Quirky-cool couples will love the selection of unconventional engagement rings and wedding bands made with materials like black or grey diamonds.
Catbird has a few locations in Brooklyn, but most of us will shop at its impressive website. According to the retailer, all the brands' Catbird stocks claim to use recycled gold and conflict-free gemstones.
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