We’ve all been there…flipping through fashion magazines staring at the gorgeous jewelry ads, strolling past the glistening display cases at the jewelry store, or gawking at what the latest celebrity is wearing…only to quietly whisper to yourself, “I wish I could own something as beautiful as that, but I could never afford it.”

But what if I were to tell you that you can. Yep, that’s right! Stunning, elegant, and luxurious jewelry doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg (or your entire paycheck!). Many women are searching for pieces that bridge the gap between costume and fine—and that’s the sweet spot that affordable jewelry brands fill.

You’ve heard of the classic gemstones, but just because something is a ruby or an emerald doesn’t mean that it automatically is high quality or “precious.” The International Gemological Institute categorizes gems based on four primary criteria, often referred to as the “4 Cs”: color, clarity, cut, and carat.

Sure, those earrings that come with a several-thousand-dollar price tag probably rank at the tip top of the value scale, but what consumers often don’t realize is that small steps in quality yield large price differences. Meaning, affordable jewelry is still produced from very beautiful gemstones that have great placement in the 4 Cs categories.

Not all budget jewelry is created equal, however, so make sure that you keep an eye on a few things while shopping:

1. Quality materials. No one wants to spend money on a ring that will leave an unsightly green band around your finger, or a necklace that tarnishes against your skin.
2. Modern meets classic styles. Look for pieces that fit the style you’re after, whether it’s the hottest trend, or a classic, timeless design.
3. Production standards. IGI certified gemstones come with the reassurance that you’re purchasing a genuine, quality stone. Many brands also require quality checkpoints along the way.
4. Reviews from others. Sounds too good to be true, right? When customers are happy, they’ll share…which is exactly what women of all ages are raving about.

So the next time you’re searching for that perfect sparkly something—be it a ring, bracelet, necklace, or earrings—remember that affordable options are endless, and can pack a big punch without a big price tag. In the end, women shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality to reach a price point they’re comfortable with—and thankfully budget-friendly brands exist for this exact purpose.