“Where can I find affordable and stunning – while also ethically made – engagement rings?” is one of the most common questions we’re asked from our smart and environmentally conscious readers. So, we’re excited to announce that we’ve partnered with our friends at Diamond Nexus to create a curated collection of affordable, beautiful, and ethical engagement rings and wedding bands that check all those boxes for you! We’re big fans of Diamond Nexus because they share many of the same values as our wonderful readers and we do.
1. No Mined Stones. Ever.
Diamond Nexus uses no mined stones. Ever. Diamonds are beautiful, but destructive—so they simulate their beauty with their patented Nexus Diamond™ alternative. What is that, you ask? It’s a lab-created diamond simulant that is conflict-free and environmentally superior because it’s not mined. It’s visually indistinguishable from a flawless diamond, we’ve been staring at them for weeks, and we just love them. The Nexus Diamond™ alternative is perfect: D color, IF clarity, and Ideal cut.
2. Affordability
Many will spend at least $6,000 (and many spend considerably more) or more on an engagement ring. That’s great if you’ve got money to burn, but if you’re like most couples, you’re closely watching your money as you eye a looong list of things you need to spend money on as you begin your new life together. So we say save on the ring and spend on the things that make life better. Take the trip to Paris or adventure in the jungles of Bali, making memories together is one of our favorite things to do as a couple.
3. Quality Above All
Engagement rings and fine jewelry are often passed down through generations. Diamond Nexus understands this, so they work with master craftspeople to create their pieces, and their stones are guaranteed forever. Yep, forever!!
Let’s take a closer look at some of the stunning rings from our Green Wedding Shoes collection!
As we were curating this collection, we wanted to offer you a mix of gorgeous and statement-worthy engagement rings and matching wedding bands. These rings are STUNNING in person and so affordable. Perfect for a young couple!
Each ring comes in different metal options and carat sizes. We have some vintage-inspired pieces that have a modern twist and simple, timeless rings that will always be en vogue. We wanted to be sure our collection had something for everyone!
Let’s take a closer look at a few of our favorites from the collection….
For the trendsetting bride: Toi Et Moi Emerald And Pear Cut Engagement Ring
We love the concept behind the Toi Et Moi ring. This stunning Toi Et Moi ring pairs an Emerald And Pear Cut Engagement Ring for such a statement! It’s available in 14K Yellow Gold, 14K White Gold, or 14K Rose Gold. A modernized rendition of a style worthy of an heirloom. The union of this emerald and pear-cut stone alludes to the “You and Me”.
Timeless Oval Cut Engagement Ring
This Timeless Oval Cut Engagement Ring is a twist on a three-stone ring that is simultaneously modern and elegantly traditional. The Oval cut Nexus Diamond™ alternative is flanked by two Trillion cut side stones. The curved lines of the Trillion cut stones echo the curved lines of the Oval cut, creating a cohesive yet visually interesting piece. This ring features lower basket settings and subtle cathedral shoulders for comfort. From afar, the silhouette may appear like an East-West setting, but closer inspection reveals three distinct stones. It is a piece that draws inspiration from the past, honors the present trends, yet has a simplicity to remain beautiful into the future. We’re kind of obsessed!!
Basket Set Emerald Cut Classic Engagement Ring
This Basket Set Emerald Cut Classic Emerald Ring is a STUNNER! It comes in 14K Yellow Gold, 14K White Gold, 14K Rose Gold, or Platinum. The beauty of this solitaire is in its simplicity. A low-profile basket setting is secure and comfortable, letting the eye-catching Emerald cut shine. A subtle knife-edge shank makes the band appear dainty without sacrificing its durability. With its sturdy design and clean lines, this timeless ring will be beautiful for a lifetime.
Two-Piece Deco Elan Engagement Set
This split band Elan Engagement Ring solitaire is designed to fit with five different Elan Enhancers to make it truly one-of-a-kind! Included in this two-piece set are the Elan Engagement Ring and the Deco Elan Enhancer. Since it’s two rings in one, you can mix metals with this ring which is super fun.
Bali Classic Marquise Cut Engagement Ring
A classic solitaire, the Bali engagement ring is simplicity in its most beautiful form. The six prongs add extra detail to the fire of the Nexus Diamond™ alternative, and the slim band flows into the loops of the trellis-like “lotus” setting, which is as lovely as the flower for which it is named.
Need a wedding band?: Manhattan Petite Wedding Band
Simple yet sophisticated, the Manhattan Petite Band has a slender width and low profile, making it a perfect fit with many engagement rings. This band adds just the right amount of extra sparkle to any engagement ring. Also, this ring is a rapid ship item, meaning your piece is produced to your specifications when you order it and will take just five (5) business days to create. Love that if you need a wedding band fast!
Engagement Ring Tip!
Save these photos to your private Pinboard and send them to someone you hope pops the question!
Head over to Diamond Nexus to see our full collection!
