Best Diamond Stud Earrings Under $1,500: What You Can Get?

Think stunning diamond stud earrings are out of reach? Think again. Whether you’re shopping for a gift or treating yourself, there are gorgeous, high-quality diamond studs available for under $1,500—if you know where to look and what to look for. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best buys in this budget range and share tips to help you maximize sparkle without overspending. 

With the right strategy, you can get: 

• Natural or lab-grown diamonds up to ~1.00 carat total weight (CTW) 
• Top-quality craftsmanship with solid gold or platinum settings 
• Ideal cut diamonds that emphasize brilliance over size 

Pro Tip: Lab-grown diamonds give you more carat weight and clarity for the same budget. 

Best Diamond Stud Picks by Category 

Everyday Elegance: 0.50 CTW Natural Diamonds 

Why it’s great: Subtle yet sparkling; perfect for daily wear 

• Specs to look for: G-H color, SI1 clarity, excellent cut 
• Best settings: 4-prong or martini in 18K white or yellow gold 
• Prices are starting at $900 
• Perfect for: First pair of diamond earrings 

Big Look, Better Value: 1.00 CTW Lab-Grown Diamonds 

Why it’s great: Get full 1.00 CTW for under $1,500 

• Specs to look for: F-G color, VS2 clarity or better 
• Best settings: Bezel for modern minimalism, halo for extra sparkle 
• Prices are starting at $800
• Perfect for: Bold everyday or affordable gifting 

Gift-Ready Style: Halo Diamond Studs (0.40–0.60 CTW center stones) 

Why it’s great: Halo design makes center stones look bigger 

• Specs to look for: Center + accent diamonds, G-H color 
• Best settings: 18K gold with pavé halo 
• Prices are starting at $1400
• Perfect for: Birthdays, anniversaries, or bridal gifts 

Understated Luxury: Diamond Huggie Studs 

Why it’s great: Tiny hoops with embedded diamonds for a unique look 

• Specs to look for: 10–20 small lab grown diamonds per earring, total ~0.25–0.35 CTW 
• Best settings: Inside-out hoops or pavé huggies 
• Prices are starting at $1300
• Perfect for: Trendsetters, layering fans, second piercings 

Travel-Friendly Sparkle: Lab Diamond Studs in Bezel Setting 

 Why it’s great: Secure, stylish, and great if you’re worried about loss 

• Specs to look for: ~0.70–0.90 CTW, VS2–SI1 clarity 
• Best settings: Low-profile bezel in white or rose gold 
• Prices are starting at $1200
• Perfect for: Vacation jewelry, everyday wear, or minimalist style 
  

Budget Tips to Maximize Value: 

• Go Slightly Under Popular Weights: Try 0.45 CTW or 0.90 CTW instead of 0.50 or 1.00 CTW—often a better price per sparkle. 
• Choose Lab-Grown for Size:  Lab diamonds can give you twice the size for the same budget compared to natural. 
• Simplify the Setting: A basic 4-prong setting lets the diamond shine—and costs less. 
• Consider Color & Clarity Tradeoffs: You can safely opt for G–H color and SI1 clarity without compromising visual beauty.  

Where to Shop:

• Look for retailers that offer:
• Transparent pricing with clear diamond grading
• Certification ( GIA, IGI, etc.)
• Return policy and warranty
• Customization or upgrade options

Ritani Tip: Use the Ring Studio or chat with our diamond experts to design custom diamond studs within your budget.

You don't need a five-figure budget to own stunning diamond stud earrings. With smart shopping and a little insider know-how, you can find high-quality, eye-catching studs under $1,500. 

Watch the below video to learn how to find high-quality, eye-catching studs under $1,500—and love them for years to come.