Nothing beats a good few pieces of jewelry in the accessories department! When you want to take a kinda meh outfit up to the next level, you can instantly transform it when you have the right set of earrings, bracelet, and necklace. Y’all know I love accessories, and Nigel has bought me lots over the last 53 years. In fact, almost all of my “good” jewelry pieces are gifts from him. Of course, many times, he was working from a list of items I’d given him. But, he asked for the list so I’m not to blame what he buys, right? For our 20th anniversary, he upgraded my engagement ring.

Check Out a Few More Thrift Stores…
The right piece of jewelry completes your outfit, gives it that zhuzh we’re all after, and maybe aids in creating the aesthetic you want. But, what about when you’re on a budget and want to add some more expensive pieces to your jewelry box? A lot of hidden gems can be found in thrift stores, and in this case, quite literally. Some thrift stores lay out high quality pieces without even realizing it. It’s up to you, as a thrifter, to know when there’s a bit of genuine quality hiding amongst the jewelry cabinet they’ve got up front. And it’ll take some time and effort to find pieces like this, but if you enjoy accessory and/or fashion shopping, the process will be more than enjoyable! You can also check out Etsy for bargains…but make sure you look carefully at the items and descriptions.

Look at Lab Grown Diamonds…
Did you know it’s more than possible to create diamonds in a lab? Did you also know that they’re indistinguishable from naturally occurring diamonds? If you didn’t, now you do! Lab grown diamonds sell for around half the price (or less) than their wild counterparts. That makes lab diamond earrings a much more budget friendly option when you want to wear diamonds but don’t have the traditional disposable income for it. Similarly, the lower cost of a lab diamond means you can get bigger, more sparkly jewelry pieces for the same price as a small, low quality natural diamond. More carats for your buck, more options for your jewelry box. There’s no competition!
Make an Investment…
High-end, luxury jewelry often comes at a price that makes them a one off kind of purchase. As such, you should choose your these jewelry pieces very, very carefully. In fact, you should go into this like it’s an investment decision – because it genuinely could be. When you buy luxury jewelry, the value is going to appreciate over time. The gem or stone you buy now could have doubled in price within the next 10 to 15 years. So, even if you’re on a budget at the moment, you could more than make back the cost by the time you’re ready to retire.

When you’re on a budget…
High class jewelry can be a hard sell when you’re on a budget. You don’t want to spend more than your monthly wardrobe costs on a single ring or necklace. But at the same time, you would love to have a bit more luxury to wear from time to time! And thankfully, you can strike a balance here. Use the tips above to build a higher class jewelry box at a lower cost and enjoy your accessories!

Wrap it up, Marsha!
While we all know “diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” I have discovered my playful World Finds kantha and Sylca jewelry is often what I reach for. At this moment in time, my aesthetic is more colorful and boho. My diamond jewelry doesn’t necessarily say what I want it to with these outfits. Nigel was just complaining I never wear my big diamond earrings. The biggest reason is my hair covers my ears. But, I do need to wear them more! So, can we talk? Do you have a favorite piece of jewelry? Are you a fan of vintage or thrifted jewelry? Do diamonds make your heart go pitter patter? Please leave me a comment or two, and we can talk. I promise to respond as quickly as I can.
Thank you!
Thank you so very much for reading today’s post. I hope you enjoyed it. I also very much appreciate those of you who comment, email and/or subscribe. It’s what keeps me going! If you’d like to follow me on Instagram, you can find me here.
Affiliate links, discount codes, and such:
Just a reminder that Marsha in the Middle may use an affiliate link. Those links are usually italicized. If you click or make a purchase from an italicized link I provide, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support. My April Cornell code, MARSHA15, now works, but it’s good for only one use. You can get $15 off $100. I’d wait and use it during a really good sale! Use Marsha12 for 12% off any order of $65 or more at Buykud. I have also become a Halftee Partner. Use the code, MARSHA2098, for 20% off any purchase. I am also an affiliate with Clara Sunwoo. You can use my code, MARSHA10, for 10% off your entire order. Use MARSHA15 at Katia Designs for 15% off your order. In case you didn’t know, bloggers must disclose the use of affiliate links. That’s why I include this in each post.
Where you can find me:
Linking up with Nancy’s Fashion Style, Fine-Whatever, Is This Mutton, Shelbee on the Edge, Chez Mireile, Suzy Turner, and Away from the Blue as well as Deb’s World . I also link up with I do deClaire, Mummabstylish, Style Splash and Elegantly Dressed and Stylish as well as the Senior Salon Pit Stop (Esme’s Salon) and Slices of Life. Please check out these wonderful ladies and their blogs! I also am a co-host for Ageless Style on the third Thursday of the month and Songful Style on the last Monday of the month as well as the Global Writing Challenge on the second Thursday. I co-host Traffic Jam Weekend every Thursday with Melynda, Lisa, Cat, and Rena. I also host 10 on the 10th on the 10th of the month! I do hope you’ll check out all of these blogs and link parties!
