Which Diamond Shapes Look Biggest?

When you're shopping for a diamond, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is how big it looks. Everyone wants a dazzling stone that catches the eye, but not everyone wants to spend a fortune on a higher carat weight. The good news is that the shape of a diamond plays a huge role in how big it appears. Some shapes naturally look larger than others, even when they weigh the same. In this guide, we'll walk you through the diamond shapes that give the biggest look and share some tips to make your stone appear even larger.

Top Diamond Shapes That Look the Biggest

Not all diamonds are cut the same, and some shapes are designed to maximize the visual size of the stone. If you're looking for a diamond that looks bigger than it actually is, consider these options:

Oval Cut

Oval diamonds have an elongated shape that spreads the carat weight over a larger surface area. This makes them look bigger than a round diamond of the same weight. Plus, they create a flattering, lengthening effect on your fingers.

Marquise Cut

The marquise cut, with its pointed ends and long, narrow shape, is one of the best options if you're after a larger-looking diamond. Its design helps maximize the visible surface, making it seem much bigger than it actually is.

Pear Cut

Pear-shaped diamonds, also called teardrop diamonds, combine the best of round and marquise cuts. Their elongated shape helps them appear larger, and they add a touch of elegance to any ring.

Emerald Cut

This cut features long, rectangular facets that create a "hall of mirrors" effect, drawing attention to the diamond's size. While emerald cuts don't sparkle as much as brilliant cuts, their wide table makes them look larger than their actual carat weight.

Radiant Cut

Radiant diamonds offer the best of both worlds: the rectangular shape of an emerald cut with the brilliance of a round cut. This combination makes them appear larger and more eye-catching.

Diamond Shapes That Appear Smaller

Some diamond shapes tend to look smaller than others due to how they are cut and how they distribute their weight:

Round Brilliant Cut

The round cut is the most popular and sparkly, but because a lot of its weight is hidden below the surface, it can appear smaller compared to other shapes of the same carat weight.

Asscher Cut

The Asscher cut, with its square shape and deep step cuts, creates a more inward-looking appearance, which can make the stone seem smaller.

Cushion Cut

Cushion-cut diamonds have a soft, pillow-like shape, and while they offer vintage charm, their deeper cut can make them look smaller compared to elongated shapes.

The Importance of Length-to-Width Ratio

A diamond's length-to-width ratio can significantly impact how big it looks. Longer shapes, such as oval and marquise, tend to have higher ratios, which help create the illusion of a larger stone. When choosing a diamond, consider the ratio that best suits your style and hand shape.

Other Factors That Make a Diamond Look Bigger

Beyond the shape itself, a few other factors can help enhance the size of your diamond:

Setting Styles

Choosing a halo setting, which surrounds the center stone with smaller diamonds, can make your diamond appear much larger.

Band Thickness

A thinner band can make your diamond stand out and appear more prominent.

Metal Choice

White metals like platinum or white gold help blend with the diamond and can make the diamond look bigger, whereas yellow or rose gold can create a contrast that may highlight or outline the stone’s actual size.

Carat Weight vs. Visual Size

Many buyers focus solely on carat weight, but the actual visual size of a diamond depends on other factors like cut quality, shape, and how the weight is distributed. A well-cut diamond will always appear larger and more brilliant than a poorly cut one, even at the same carat weight.

Tips to Make Your Diamond Look Bigger

If you're looking for ways to enhance the appearance of your diamond, here are a few tricks to consider:

1. Opt for elongated shapes such as oval, marquise, or pear.
2. Choose a halo setting to create a bigger, more glamorous look.
3. Go for a thinner band to emphasize the stone.
4. Prioritize cut quality to maximize sparkle and visual size.
5. Look for a diamond with a higher length-to-width ratio for an elongated effect.
   

Frequently Asked Questions

Which diamond shape gives the most value for looking bigger?

Oval and marquise cuts tend to offer the best value because they look larger than their actual weight.

Does the type of setting make a diamond look bigger?

Yes, settings like halo can create the illusion of a larger stone by adding extra sparkle and dimension.

Is carat weight the only thing that affects diamond size?

No, cut, shape, and setting all play a crucial role in how big the diamond appears.

What cut should I choose to make a smaller diamond look bigger?

Elongated shapes like oval, marquise, and pear cuts are great choices to maximize the appearance of size.

Conclusion

Finding the right diamond shape can make a big difference in how large your stone looks on your hand. Whether you're drawn to the timeless elegance of an oval cut or the dramatic flair of a marquise, knowing which shapes appear larger can help you make the best choice. Keep in mind that lab grown diamonds are also a fantastic option—they offer the same brilliance and beauty as natural diamonds but at a more affordable price. At Eternal Permanent Jewelry, we specialize in helping you find the perfect diamond that matches your style and budget, ensuring you get the most sparkle for your money.