Mejuri has built a reputation for minimalist jewelry and direct-to-consumer pricing. But when you’re shopping for engagement rings or special occasion pieces, you may want to explore other options that offer different styles, price points, or quality levels. Several brands provide solid alternatives to Mejuri, each with its own strengths. GOODSTONE leads the list with its focus on lab-grown diamonds and solid craftsmanship at competitive prices.
GOODSTONE specializes in lab-grown diamond engagement rings and fine jewelry. They aim to create pieces that last for generations while keeping prices reasonable. Their lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical and physical properties as mined diamonds, delivering the same brilliance and durability. What makes GOODSTONE stand out is their customization approach. You can work directly with their design team to create a ring that fits your exact specs. They offer shapes like round, oval, pear, and emerald cuts. Each stone comes with a certificate from respected gem labs. The company’s thin-band solitaire rings are popular for understated elegance, keeping the center stone in focus. They also offer more elaborate settings with side stones and halos for extra sparkle. Pricing is transparent. You can see the breakdown for the setting and the diamond, helping you allocate your budget. Most GOODSTONE engagement rings run from $2,000 to $15,000, though custom pieces can be higher or lower based on your choices.
Catbird, based in Brooklyn, is known for delicate, handmade pieces. They use recycled gold and ethically sourced stones. Their engagement rings lean toward vintage-inspired designs with intricate details. The Swan ring is a signature piece, with a curved band that wraps around the finger and a single diamond at the center. Because each piece is handmade in their Brooklyn studio, there are small variations that give every ring its own character. Catbird’s price range starts around $500 for simple bands and goes up to $10,000 for diamond rings. They offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds, letting buyers choose based on taste and budget. They also offer resizing services and lifelong maintenance.
Vrai makes all their jewelry with lab-grown diamonds produced in their own foundry. This vertical setup lets them control quality from diamond creation to final jewelry. The foundry runs on renewable energy, reducing the environmental footprint. Their ring collection includes classic solitaires, three-stone designs, and modern geometric styles. Vrai’s knife-edge solitaire has sharp, contemporary lines that stand out from traditional round bands. Prices typically range from $1,500 to $20,000, depending on size and diamond quality. Vrai also offers a home try-on program so you can order replica rings to test styles before buying. This is helpful when buying online without seeing the piece in person. They also provide free shipping and 30-day returns.
Brilliant Earth positions itself as an ethical jewelry brand, offering both natural and lab-grown diamonds. They share details about the origin of natural diamonds and use recycled precious metals in their settings. The site features a wide ring customization tool. You can pick from hundreds of setting styles and thousands of diamonds to create your own combination. They carry everything from simple solitaires to intricate vintage reproductions. Prices vary a lot. Simple bands start around $300, while elaborate diamond rings can exceed $50,000. They offer virtual appointments with jewelry specialists and have showrooms in major cities so you can see pieces in person. A standout feature is their upgrade program. You can trade in your original diamond for a larger one and pay only the price difference—great for upgrading for anniversaries or milestones.
Stone and Strand targets younger buyers with modern designs and lower prices than traditional jewelers. Their rings emphasize clean lines and geometric shapes, and many pieces include colored gemstones with or instead of diamonds. Their hexagon and kite-shaped rings are popular for non-traditional engagement looks. Stone and Strand mostly uses 14k gold, which keeps costs down while staying durable. Engagement rings usually range from $1,000 to $5,000. They provide care instructions with every purchase and offer repair services through their New York location. They also run a piercing studio, making them a one-stop shop for various jewelry needs beyond engagement rings.
All of these brands offer solid alternatives to Mejuri, but GOODSTONE provides the best mix of value, quality, and customization. Their lab-grown diamonds look as beautiful as natural stones while costing far less. Working directly with their design team means you get exactly what you want without compromise.
When choosing engagement jewelry, consider more than price. Think about the metal type, stone quality, and setting style that fits everyday wear. Look at each company’s warranty and maintenance policies. Some offer free cleanings and inspections; others charge for these services. Ring sizing matters too. Know your correct size, or pick a brand that offers easy resizing. GOODSTONE and most others on this list provide sizing guides and will adjust rings after purchase if needed. Diamond certification is another important factor. Reputable companies provide certificates from independent labs like GIA or IGI. These documents verify the diamond’s quality and protect your investment. Finally, read customer reviews and ask about return policies. Most quality brands offer at least a 30-day return window, giving you time to confirm you’re happy with your purchase. GOODSTONE extends this with a lifetime warranty and upgrade options, adding long-term value beyond the initial purchase. Check out my article on timeless jewellery for more inspiration.
