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.
For those who prefer a simple band to stones, this sterling silver ring is a sweet choice.
Forget black diamonds. This onyx stone on a 14-karat band is calling our name.
An 18-karat gold vermeil finish and inlaid cubic zirconia put this groovy ring on the same wavelength as our bank account.
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.
We're bewitched by the teardrop crystal center and criss-cross shape of this gold ring.
Rutilated quartz is rumored to be an energizing stone. The better to kick start that wedding planning, right?
How gorgeous would this baguette-set diamond look when paired with a matching 14-karat rose gold wedding ring?
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.
The sleek lines of this sterling silver ring make it easy to wear with your other everyday jewelry.
Rose-cut diamonds give this vintage-inspired ring a certain grandeur without an over-the-top price tag to match.
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.
The now-classic bar silhoutte replaces pavé diamonds with crystals, making it an under-$100 option.
Retro without being literal, this ring is a little bit deco with its single white sapphire set in a geometric gold-plated band.
Filigree is an awesome choice if you're looking for an ornate silhouette without splurging on gems.
An upside-down black diamond for the bride-to-be that's beyond conventional.
Why choose one gemstone when you can have the rainbow? Show your true colors with blue topaz, green amethyst, and grey diamonds.
Blue spinel stones and a cool open face make this a bold, but incredibly wearable, choice.
Traditionally elegant 14-karat gold and white diamonds for the demure bride.
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