Baubles That Won’t Break the Bank

One day, while standing in a jewelry store, staring into a case of shiny baubles, I pointed out a pair of diamond, bezel set earrings to my Father.  Just a few weeks shy of finishing graduate school, I was hoping to subtly drop a hint that these sparkly studs would make a fine celebratory gift.  My Father, ever the wordsmith and humanitarian, leaned over and whispered in my ear, “If you want diamonds, find yourself a husband.”*

Luckily for me, a proud member of the Past-30 Spinster’s Club, Capitol Hill Chapter, there are many under-$50 fashion jewelry pieces for sale this spring that are sure to adorn and delight.

From Left, C. Wonder Tortoise Bracelet ($48) // Kate Spade Party Drops ($47) // Blu Bijoux Statement Necklace ($32) // Sku Braided Ring ($35) // Bird on a Wire Necklace ($19) // Berry Reversible Drops ($24) // Hammered Turquoise Bangles ($18) // Charles Albert Kyanite Ring ($ 50)// Mint Multi-Lens Necklace ($28) // Beaded Hoop Earrings ($24) // Sabine Flower Bracelet ($18)

One. Tortoise is making an appearance on store shelves this spring, and I for one am thankful.  Take one look at these sweet tortoise drop earrings or this long chain necklace and tell me you couldn’t work this rich brown material into your wardrobe?

Two. I just thought these pretty drops would be perfect for weddings, holiday parties or dinner dates.  I love the slightly-art deco feel and the neutral color palette.  And on the topic of deco, I also love these half-moon dangly earrings for just $13.

Three.  This jewel-toned statement necklace is a versatile choice.  I also like the mirror-like quality of this ABS necklace and the simplicity of this burgundy-hued necklace from JC Penney for $14.

Four.  I’ve featured this lovely braided ring before, but I liked it so much that it deserved another showing.  This braided jade ring is also very interesting, and I love the braided detail on this pricey pearl ring from Konstantino.

Five.  I have a bit of a thing for jewelry with birds on it, so this necklace is right up my alley.  If the avian theme appeals to you as well, try this love bird necklace, this inexpensive little ring or these cute earrings.

Six.  The best part about these berry drops–aside from their rich hue, of course–is that they’re reversible.  Raspberry on the front, jet black on the back.  Two for the price of one.

Seven.  These stylish bangles come in the pretty turquoise above, grey and white and red.  I also love this thin hammered bangle from Lisa Stewart and this enormous hammered cuff.

Eight.  I love the vibrant blue hue of lapis lazuli, so this Kyanite ring (same effect, lower price) is right in my wheel house.  This bib laced with layers of the stone is to.die.for, and these simple drop earrings are only $30.

Nine.  Long beaded and station necklaces are a chic way to add a hint of color and shine to an outfit.  This multi-strand sand dollar necklace is fabulous, and the mix of shapes and textures in this Tory Burch necklace is sophisticated and modern.

Ten.  While my good friend Miss M loves a generous hoop earring, I prefer mine on the small side.  In addition to the beaded hoops above, I love these twisted Tom Binns hoops and these rose gold ones.

Eleven.  This is a bracelet that just catches your eye–the floral detail, the metal work, the sheen in the stones–how could you miss it?  That is a lot of style for less than-$20.

Jewelry is an inexpensive way to perk up an outfit or buy something new to wear without breaking the bank.  If you’ve discovered any fiscally feasible jewelry finds recently, feel free to share them in the comments.

*You mustn’t judge my Father too harshly.  Most of his friend’s children were married with children before they were of eligible age to run for the House of Representatives, such is the way in small, rural towns.