Fiat Lux—thin baguette diamond bateau in 14k yellow, rose or white gold with six baguette diamonds set along the tips of the pointed ring, $980"> clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

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Five Exquisite, Local Engagement Rings for Less Than $1,000

By Kristen Philipkoski
Rings by Claire Kinder from <a href="http://fiatluxsf.com">Fiat Lux</a>—thin baguette diamond bateau in 14k yellow, rose or white gold with six baguette diamonds set along the tips of the pointed ring, $980
Rings by Claire Kinder from Fiat Lux—thin baguette diamond bateau in 14k yellow, rose or white gold with six baguette diamonds set along the tips of the pointed ring, $980

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The idea that an engagement ring should cost three months salary is not only passé, but for Bay Area residents would result in the kind of enormous rock that might send a girl's heart racing, either with excitement or fear of wearing such a gem in public. Not everyone likes that much bling, and not everyone has three months rent to spare, especially after paying three months of rent in San Francisco.

Luckily, we've got plenty of local jewelry makers and sellers who can hook up a bride and groom on a budget. We've rounded up five San Francisco rings, each splendidly original and priced at less than $1000. Some even bring their fair share of bling. Ready to put a ring on it? —Anne Jude Kiesow

  • Fiat Lux: This Castro shop boasts handmade goodies of all sorts, though the ah-mazing jewelry takes center stage. Their “$1000 Diamond Ring” is popular with the ‘girl power’ crowd, and they also carry a range of bands starting around $700. This Daisy San
  • Sarah Swell: For a simple, traditional approach, look no further than Swell’s Carved Feather ring. Available by special order, choose from yellow or white gold; from $675.
  • Rare Earth: Sold exclusively on Etsy, this SF artist focuses on ethically sourced and responsibly-crafted bridal jewelry. Her recycled metals and bright, (conflict free!) gems start around $300. This jaw-dropping rose gold White Topaz goes for $465
  • Gallery of Jewels: This San Francisco mainstay has three locations and something for every budget. The whimsical rose gold Princess Diamond goes for an impressive $789.
  • Colleen Mauer Designs: Locally-crafted CMD jewels are individually made with love by Colleen herself. Check out these thick individual bands for $64 each. Add-on option: signature stackable rings make a great anniversary gift.


· Fiat Lux Owners Talk Selling Diamonds and Goat Hammers [Racked SF]
· The Eleven Best Jewelry Shopping Experiences in SF [Racked SF]
· All Weddings Week posts [Racked SF]