While your engagement should be incredibly special, that old adage that a ring needs to be worth a month's salary is just that — old, and certainly no longer a hard-and-fast rule. The perfect stunner is both a highly personal choice (remember: you literally wear it with everything) and honestly just one step towards starting a life with your significant other. For many, there are other milestones on the horizon worth saving your cold hard cash for instead of a massive diamond (you know, like a mortgage). That's why we decided to round up our favorite under-$350 rings that are look just as beautiful as their more expensive counterparts. Ahead, say yes to any of these picks that only look like they cost a million bucks.
A vintage-inspired ring without the estate sale prices.
Links of London, $258.23, available at Harrods
For those who prefer a simple band to stones, this sterling silver ring is a sweet choice.
Nora Kogan, $180.00, available at Nora Kogan
Forget black diamonds. This onyx stone on a 14-karat band is calling our name.
Jennie Kwon, $210.00, available at Jennie Kwon
An 18-karat gold vermeil finish and inlaid cubic zirconia put this groovy ring on the same wavelength as our bank account.
Beatrice Oggier, $69.00, available at Mejuri
No need to wait until your anniversary — an eternity band in 10-karat rose gold and diamonds is just as gorgeous as a more traditional single stone ring.
Zales, $339.00, available at Zales
We're bewitched by the teardrop crystal center and criss-cross shape of this gold ring.
Lady Grey, $144.00, available at Lady Grey
Rutilated quartz is rumored to be an energizing stone. The better to kick start that wedding planning, right?
Lauren Wolf Jewelry, $100.00, available at Lauren Wolf Jewelry
How gorgeous would this baguette-set diamond look when paired with a matching 14-karat rose gold wedding ring?
Vrai and Oro, $230.00, available at Vrai & Oro
For the girl who wants to design her own ring, but doesn't have the cash to create something custom, this delicate band can be personalized in sterling silver or 10-karat yellow gold and adorned with either a black or white diamond, emerald, sapphire, or ruby.
WWAKE, $145.00, available at WWAKE
The sleek lines of this sterling silver ring make it easy to wear with your other everyday jewelry.
Ariel Gordon Jewelry, $165.00, available at Ariel Gordon Jewelry
Rose-cut diamonds give this vintage-inspired ring a certain grandeur without an over-the-top price tag to match.
Victoria Townsend, $160.00, available at Macy's
We heart this solitaire ring from New Zealand jeweler Meadowlark because it comes with a variety of affordable stone choices, including rhodolite garnet, seen here.
Meadowlark, $136.51, available at Meadowlark
The now-classic bar silhoutte replaces pavé diamonds with crystals, making it an under-$100 option.
Vanessa Mooney, $64.00, available at Vanessa Mooney
Retro without being literal, this ring is a little bit deco with its single white sapphire set in a geometric gold-plated band.
Gabriela Artigas, $260.00, available at Gabriela Artigas
Filigree is an awesome choice if you're looking for an ornate silhouette without splurging on gems.
Grace Lee, $285.00, available at ABC Carpet & Home
An upside-down black diamond for the bride-to-be that's beyond conventional.
Bel & Skar, $80.00, available at Bel & Skar
Why choose one gemstone when you can have the rainbow? Show your true colors with blue topaz, green amethyst, and grey diamonds.
Alexis Bittar, $295.00, available at Alexis Bittar
Blue spinel stones and a cool open face make this a bold, but incredibly wearable, choice.
Aesa, $235.00, available at Steven Alan
Traditionally elegant 14-karat gold and white diamonds for the demure bride.
Eliza Page Collection, $272.00, available at Eliza Page
A tiny set of diamonds all wrapped up in 14-karat gold.
Vale Jewelry, $350.00, available at Stone and StrandLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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