Designer vs. Dupe? Or Designer vs. Value Hack?

When shopping for an engagement ring, most couples expect to make trade-offs: pay more for quality, or sacrifice a little sparkle for affordability. But sometimes, a “dupe” isn’t really a dupe at all — it’s a smarter way to get more for your money.

Today we’re comparing two stunningly similar rings:

• The Designer: Brilliant Earth’s “Secret Garden” Diamond Ring — a designer engagement ring with a 2.0 carat, VS1 clarity, E-color lab-grown diamond set in their signature “Secret Garden” floral halo design.

• The Contender (a.k.a. the “Dupe”): Kalyn & Co’s Secret Garden-style ring — nearly identical in design, but with a 2.0 carat, VVS1 clarity, D-color lab-grown diamond for a lower price point.

Mini Comparison

✨ Quick Specs at a Glance

• Diamond Size: Tie — Both are 2 carats

• Clarity: Kalyn & Co (VVS1, higher grade) > Brilliant Earth (VS1)

• Color: Kalyn & Co (D, perfectly colorless) > Brilliant Earth (E, near colorless)

• Metal: Tie — Both available in gold options

• Design: Virtually identical floral “Secret Garden” halo

• Price: Kalyn & Co wins (better diamond, for less)

What You’re Really Paying For

• With Brilliant Earth: Brand prestige, ethical sourcing reputation, strong after-sale service, and the comfort of buying from an established jeweler.

• With Kalyn & Co: Better diamond specs (higher clarity and higher color grade) at a friendlier price. You get more sparkle for less money, without compromising on design.

The Verdict

This isn’t a case of “settling for a dupe.” With Kalyn & Co, you’re actually getting a better diamond in the same Secret Garden look. Brilliant Earth offers the cachet of a designer name and brand reassurance, but if what you want is maximum sparkle and quality for your budget, Kalyn & Co is the smarter buy.

At the end of the day, the right choice depends on what you value most: the name or the numbers. Either way, both rings are timeless symbols of love — and both will leave your partner speechless. 💍✨