We're currently living in a golden age of affordable demi-fine jewellery, thanks in part to a surge of Instagram-famous brands using the platform to market their up-and-coming boutiques. But mostly, we've got to give credit to the Duchess of Sussex. Ever since Meghan Markle's [1] love of British demi-fine jewellery brand Missoma [2] became public knowledge, there has been a major move by similar brands to populate this space.
While we love the Insta-famous boutiques we find online, we actually have a ton of affordable fine and demi-fine jewellery brands right here in the UK. Much like Missoma, our homegrown jewellery designers create minimal pieces that carry a certain nostalgia that we'll call "modern vintage." From fashion-crowd favourites like Otiumberg, Edge of Ember, and Orelia to newcomers like Lily & Roo, Maya Magal, Astrid & Miyu, and Bonvo — along with some more established brands like Laura Lee, Rachel Jackson, Monica Vinader, and Dinny Hall — these British brands offer a wide range of contemporary fine and demi-fine jewellery featuring ethically sourced gemstones at surprisingly affordable prices.
Ahead, you'll be able to find some truly stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces starting at £60, and if you fancy something for a milestone event, there are gorgeous engagement rings [3] and personalised pieces, too.
Edge of Ember
This London-based brand is one to have on your radar. Founded by Lynette Ong in 2014 around the time she moved from Singapore to London, social responsibility is at the heard of the brand. Using recycled solid gold and sterling silver, this fine jewellery is timeless, not to mention gorgeous. Layer up initial necklaces and stack on the rings. It has a collaboration with fashion influencer Victoria Magrath, too.
Edge of Ember Initial Necklace [5] (£95)
Orelia
Orelia was born out of the founder's desire for aspirational, yet affordable jewellery. Friends Collette Flood and Louise Hirst came up with the idea of launching a jewellery brand while on a trip to Delhi, and returned buzzing with ideas. Since 2008, Orelia has become a go-to for chic designs that look much more expensive that their price tag.
Orelia Jet Black & Pearl Stationed Huggie Hoop Earrings [6] (£25)
Otiumberg
A favourite of the fashion crowd, Otiumberg is one of the brands behind the huggie hoop earrings trend. The London brand, founded by sisters Christie and Rosanna Wollenberg in 2016, is inspired by the sentimental moments between loved ones: the ring you wear while visiting a dear friend, earrings worn on a first date, or a necklace worn on a job interview for good luck.
Otiumberg Love Link Bracelet in Yellow Gold Vermeil [7] (£130)
Lily & Roo
Founded by Brittany Preston, all pieces by Lily & Roo are handcrafted in Hatton Garden, with its materials sourced within the UK.
Lily & Roo Huggie Pearl-Drop Earrings [8] (£75)
DAPHiNE
Founded in 2017 by friends Damasia Ball and Philippine de Follin, London-based brand Daphine embodies their mutual love for "simple, uncomplicated design." All pieces are hand-made by local artisans in Jaipur, India.
DAPHiNE Ines Necklace [9] (£135)
By Alona
London based designer, Alona Shelemy, grew up surrounded by breathtaking jewels. Her father was a fine jeweller who constantly spoiled her mum with pieces that were "too beautiful to sell". Currently, By Alona is donating 10 percent of the proceeds of each order to Ocean Conservation charities.
By Alona Nayla Turquoise Earrings [10] (£98)
Astrid & Miyu
This London-based jewellery brand is all about the "curated ear," but it makes gorgeous necklaces, rings, and hair accessories, too. Launched in 2012, the brand is lauded by Pippa Middleton and Georgia May Jagger.
Twilight Pendant Necklace in Solid White Gold [11] (£200)
Bonvo
The name "Bonvo" is a Haitian creole word that means "valuable". The London-based jewellery brand was founded by Greek designer Maria Leonidopoulou and focuses on "effortless clean lines and understated luxury".
Bonvo Gaia Bracelet [12] (£168)
Monica Vinader
Sustainability is central to Monica Vinader, who launched her brand in 2008. The designer creates pieces that use 100-percent recycled gold vermeil and sterling silver, with ethical diamonds that are traceable through the Kimberley Process. A favourite of Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, Monica Vinader is frequently worn by Bella Hadid and Olivia Palermo.
Monica Vinader Siren Stacking Ring [13] (£80)
Tada & Toy
Tada & Toy's founders Tansy Aspinall and Victoria Van Holthe met at the age of 13 and immediately realised their shared vision of going into the jewellery business. Launched in 2013, the brand uses materials that are responsibly sourced and manufactured in Jaipur, India. The designers describe Tada & Toy's aesthetic as an "amalgamation of Indian embellishment and Swedish Scandinavian style".
Tada & Toy Celestial Hoops [14] (£115)
Dinny Hall
Dinny Hall offers a fresh, eclectic take on modern jewellery design. Hall, the company's founder, rose to prominence after her entire Central Saint Martins graduating collection was bought by Liberty London. With over 30 years of experience, Dinny Hall is committed to ethically sourced gemstones and materials.
Dinny Hall Gem Drop Freshwater Pearl Hoop Earring [15] (£150)
Maya Magal
Based in Islington in London, Maya Magal founded her eponymous brand in 2013. Her designs are made of precious metals and stones, and handcrafted by artisans in Jaipur, India. Maya Magal London has locations in King's Cross, Marylebone, and Islington.
Maya Magal Solid Gold Mini Spotlight Ring [16] (£196)
Rachel Jackson
Rachel Jackson's eponymous brand launched in 2006 when the designer would make every piece of jewellery by hand and sell them at a market stall in Spitalfields. Today, Jackson works out of her London studio and her wares are often seen on Rita Ora, Ellie Goulding, and Kylie Jenner.
Rachel Jackson Monogram Hexagon Gold Bangle [17] (£155)
Laura Lee
Laura Lee is all about catering to the unique personalities and jewellery styles of its clientele. Lee started making jewellery in the '80s, with her friendly boutique located in Covent Garden and a workshop in Bloomsbury, both located in London. Laura Lee has a unique gift of combining metals and gemstones to create contemporary vintage designs.
Laura Lee Minibar Diamond Necklace [18] (£230)
Olivia & Pearl
As a pearl specialist launched by Olivia Smith in 2017, Olivia & Pearl only uses top certified AAAA+ grade pearls that are ethically sourced from family-run establishments from around the globe, and hand selected by the founder.
Olivia & Pearl Keshi Choker Necklace [19] (£225)