At some point, every budget-conscious fashion lover realizes it’s time to move beyond ultra-cheap jewelry. While stores like Forever 21 offer fun and affordable accessories, many of these pieces don’t last. They might cause skin irritation, turn your skin green, or end up forgotten at the bottom of a jewelry box.
That’s not to say trendy, colorful pieces don’t have their place. Brands like SUGARFIX by BaubleBar still offer great options for a pop of color. However, over time, I’ve found myself moving away from heavy earrings and bold statement pieces in favor of a more refined, understated style.
When it comes to jewelry, I’ve learned that less is often more. That’s why I’ve embraced midrange jewelry—pieces that offer better quality without the high price tag of fine jewelry.
### What is Midrange Jewelry?
Midrange jewelry falls under the category of fashion jewelry, meaning it’s not made from solid precious metals. However, there’s a wide range of quality within this category. On the lower end, you’ll find pieces with a thin layer of gold-colored paint, while higher-end options are electroplated with 14k gold. The latter is where midrange jewelry shines—it costs more than fast fashion jewelry, but the quality makes it worth the investment.
If you’re shopping for midrange jewelry, here are three key things to consider:
### 1. How Does the Price Compare to Fine Jewelry?
A gold-plated midrange piece should be significantly more affordable than solid 14k gold jewelry. However, some designer brands charge premium prices for gold-plated pieces simply because of the brand name. The best midrange jewelry looks and feels luxurious while remaining reasonably priced. Personally, I find that a comfortable price range for midrange jewelry is between $50 and $125, depending on the piece and occasion.
### 2. How Is It Made?
Since you can’t always inspect the materials firsthand, it’s important to check how a piece is made. Is it dipped, filled, or plated? How long will the finish last? Are there any special care instructions? These details can help you determine whether a piece is worth the investment.
### 3. Will It Stay Stylish Over Time?
Opt for classic designs that will remain wearable season after season. Since midrange jewelry costs more than fast fashion pieces, it’s best to choose styles that won’t go out of fashion quickly.
### Jewelry Brands to Watch
One brand that has caught my attention is Grand Avenue Jewelry. I first discovered them when they launched a successful Kickstarter campaign under the name Cy Collection. Their pieces have a delicate, feminine aesthetic that pairs well with any outfit, from casual to formal.
What I love most about Grand Avenue Jewelry is how lightweight their earrings are—they don’t tug on my earlobes at all. The necklaces are also comfortable to wear, even in hot weather. Their bracelet set has a slightly heavier feel, which works well for me since I prefer sturdier wristwear.
Grand Avenue pieces are plated with two layers of 14k gold for a longer-lasting finish, with prices ranging from $80 to just over $100.
Another brand worth considering is Ana Luisa Jewelry. Their collection features high-quality pieces with unique details, such as bold colors and interesting textures.
Ana Luisa’s earrings strike a balance between lightweight and substantial. While I wouldn’t normally gravitate toward their blue flower earrings, they look surprisingly elegant when worn. They’re versatile enough for both work and casual outfits.
Their hoop earrings stand out because they face forward rather than sitting perpendicular to the earlobe. While they can be a bit tricky to put on, they make more of a statement than traditional hoops.
The double-wrap bracelet is another standout piece, adding a bold pop of blue to any outfit. I’d likely wear it most in the summer when my wrists are bare to avoid snagging.
Ana Luisa’s prices start at $65, with most gold pieces dipped in 14k gold. They also offer some solid gold and sterling silver options.
Both Grand Avenue Jewelry and Ana Luisa provided these pieces for review, allowing me to share an honest assessment of their quality and style.