Engagement Ring Deals: How to Find the Best Sparkler for Less

BERRICLE’s halo CZ ring earned 6.5/10 for delivering that classic engagement look at just $27.99. In our testing, the large center stone and rhodium-plated sterling silver offered impressive shine that reads much pricier in photos and across the room. Be aware cubic zirconia isn’t a diamond and plating will wear with heavy daily use, potentially requiring re-plating down the road. If you’re chasing the halo aesthetic on an ultra-tight budget, this is a savvy stand-in.

At just $15.95, PAVOI’s 3 CT CZ solitaire is a fun way to test-drive an engagement look or use as a travel stand-in. While it scored 4.5/10 in our guide, the large ~9mm stone is undeniably eye-catching, and our experience shows it photographs beautifully. However, during regular wear the 14K gold plating can chip and durability is limited, so it’s not built for everyday, long-term commitment. Choose this when affordability and sparkle matter most, and save fine-jewelry budgets for your forever piece.

For an ultra-affordable diamond look, PalmBeach’s platinum-plated 2.00 ct CZ solitaire earned an 8/10 in our testing—this batch’s best price-to-look ratio at just $34.99. The lab-created cubic zirconia delivers bold sparkle in a classic solitaire, and the silvertone plating gives a polished, engagement-ready vibe. Our experience shows the plating can wear with frequent water or chemicals, and CZ won’t match diamond durability or resale; no certificate is provided. Treat it as a stunning starter or travel ring, removing before showers to keep that shine.

While not our highest scorer, the Berricle 3‑stone CZ ring earned a solid 7/10 in our review for its dramatic 4.9 ct (11 mm) center and high-impact sparkle under $100. Crafted in nickel-free 925 sterling silver with rhodium plating, it feels comfortable and comes with a gift box plus a 90-day warranty. Our testing shows lab-created cubic zirconia can scratch or lose brilliance over time, and it isn’t a diamond. Consider it a stylish statement or proposal placeholder, not a long-term heirloom.

Our top-rated 10/10 pick, this Brilliance Fine Jewelry solitaire gives you a genuine lab-grown diamond at an accessible $128. In our testing, the 1/4-carat center stone delivered authentic diamond sparkle and ethical peace of mind, while sterling silver keeps costs low without sacrificing a classic look. The trade-offs are modest size and limited fixed ring sizes (often 5 or 7), so confirm fit before ordering. If you want the real thing on a budget, it outperformed pricier lookalikes in overall value and buyer praise.

While it offers genuine (non–lab-grown) diamonds and a cluster setting that mimics a larger center, Zales’ 1/5 ct. t.w. ring scored just 4.5/10 in our review—the weakest deal in this batch. At $159.60, the sterling silver build keeps costs down but is prone to scratching and tarnish with everyday wear, and there’s no certificate or individual grading. In person, we found the tiny stones sparkle modestly, but the overall look skews delicate. Better as a temporary or fashion option than a forever engagement ring.

This 1 ct moissanite solitaire is our best deal in the guide, scoring 9.5/10 for brilliant performance at just $44.99. In our testing, the moissanite delivered diamond-like fire, and the platinum-plated sterling silver kept the finish bright and upscale. The adjustable open-end band helps with sizing out of the box, but it isn’t as secure as a fixed ring for long-term daily wear. If you want maximum sparkle per dollar, this is the standout budget pick.

This Kay Outlet three-row lab-created sapphire ring scored 5.5/10, looking glam for under $100 when on clearance. We found the pavé-style rows add eye-catching sparkle across the band, and the sterling silver setting keeps the look classic. That said, multiple small stones can loosen over time, and some buyers reported cloudiness after a few weeks, plus silver needs periodic polishing. Best for occasional wear when you want extra shimmer without the splurge.

Earning a 7.5/10, this sterling silver birthstone ring offers a sizable 7mm lab-created white sapphire for just $90. During our review, the solitaire setting put the stone front and center, with consistent clarity and an ethically made origin that’s easy to love. Keep in mind it’s not a diamond and sterling silver requires occasional polishing, and there’s no certificate or grading provided. If you want clean, bright sparkle without diamond pricing, it’s a strong value pick.

The Swarovski Matrix Eternity scored 6/10, offering bright, uniform crystal sparkle and multiple finish options for $89. In our testing, the slim pavé band stacked beautifully and added a pop of shimmer without overpowering your set. However, the thin, plated band can show wear with daily use, so treat it as a fashion piece rather than a forever ring. If you want a sleek stacker or anniversary accent with brand polish, this fits the brief.

Swarovski’s Attract Pavé ring earned a 7/10 for delivering bold, uniform sparkle and reliable brand presentation at just $83. In our testing, the pavé design throws lots of light for a dressy look, making it a great occasion or stacking piece. Because it uses Swarovski crystal and rhodium plating, expect fashion-jewelry durability: the plating can wear with daily use. Consider it when you want maximum shimmer for the money, not a forever gemstone.

Pandora’s Timeless Elegance scored 6.5/10, balancing brand polish and bright halo sparkle at a reasonable $105. During our review, the hand-finished sterling silver and multi-faceted cubic zirconia created a refined, giftable look that catches light from every angle. Just note that CZ isn’t a natural diamond and sterling silver can tarnish, so occasional polishing will keep it looking fresh. If you want a recognizable name and classic halo style without overspending, this is a smart mid-range choice.

If you want big sparkle on a small budget, the Keepsake Harmony Gem earned an 8/10 for sheer visibility and value. Its 2.2-carat total of lab-created white sapphires and classic three-stone setting shine brightly in polished 925 sterling silver. During our review we loved the visible fire for $98, but the lightweight feel and non-resizable band were downsides for long-term wear. If diamond prestige isn’t essential, this makes a photogenic engagement-style or promise ring, though daily wear may warrant a sturdier, resizable option.