Why Diamond Shape Affects Perceived Size
The shape of a diamond affects its perceived size due to a combination of visual factors such as:
- How light reflects off of the stone.
- The diamond’s proportions.
- How the diamond’s shape interacts with the ring’s setting or background.
While the diamond’s carat weight affects the actual size, the diamond’s shape affects the visual impact therefore creating a difference in how the diamond’s size is perceived.
Carat vs. Visual Size
The carat of a diamond refers to its weight, not the size of the diamond. Carat weight gives a measurement of how much a diamond weighs.
Visual size is how large the diamond appears to the eye.
The carat weight indicates the actual mass while the visual size can vary based on the diamond’s shape, cut and ring setting.
Two diamonds with the same carat weight might look different in size depending on these factors so it's important to consider all elements when choosing a diamond for both its actual and perceived size.
The Role of Table Surface Area
A diamond’s “table” is the flat, top portion of the stone which plays a significant role in how large the diamond appears and how it interacts with light.
While a larger table may enhance the perceived size of a diamond, it can also affect its brilliance if not properly proportioned to the depth of the diamond. It’s all about balance!
Ideally, the table should be proportionate to the rest of the diamond’s cut for optimal visual size and sparkle.
Top Diamond Shapes That Appear Larger
- Oval Cut Diamonds
- Marquise Cut Diamonds
- Emerald Cut Diamonds
- Pear Cut Diamonds
These diamond shapes are known for creating the visual illusion of a larger diamond due to their elongated or large table surfaces. These shapes maximize the surface area, making the diamond look bigger than a more compact shape of the same carat weight.
Oval Cut – Elegant and Flattering
Oval cut diamonds are one of the most trending shapes right now! This unique shape features the brilliance of a classic round diamond but in an elongated shape. Oval cuts not only make the diamond appear larger, but they can also make the finger seem longer which is flattering (especially for those with shorter fingers).
Marquise Cut – Maximizing Surface Area
The marquise cut is an elongated diamond shape with pointed ends that enhance the stone’s visual length. The marquise cut is particularly good at maximizing the use of carat weight by focusing more on the length rather than the depth. A marquise diamond often has less depth than a round or cushion cut diamond shape which means that more of the diamond’s weight is distributed along the length which results in the appearance of a larger stone.
Emerald Cut – Large Table for a Bold Look
One of the most notable features of the emerald cut is its large, flat table (the top surface) which makes the diamond appear larger than round or other shapes of the same carat weight. The wider table gives the diamond more visual real estate, making it look bolder and more substantial. Unlike brilliant-cut diamonds that maximize sparkle, the emerald cut is all about clarity and bold elegance, making it a stunning choice for those who want a refined and sophisticated diamond.
Pear Cut – Unique and Lengthening
Pear cut diamonds have a distinct shape that combines the features of both round and marquise cuts. The elongated, teardrop shape stretches the look of the diamond creating the illusion of a bigger size, similar to other elongated shapes like the oval and marquise.
Shapes That May Appear Smaller
Diamonds with shallower or deeper cuts, or those with smaller table surfaces, often appear smaller than those with elongated shapes. These diamonds can seem smaller depending on the cut quality and proportions, even when their carat weight is comparable to larger-looking shapes like the oval or emerald cut.
Round Cut – Popular but Compact Appearance
The round cut is known for its timeless brilliance and is what we consider to be the most popular and traditional diamond shape.
However, despite its popularity, the round cut can sometimes appear smaller than other shapes of the same carat weight, especially when compared to elongated cuts like the oval or emerald. The round cut is, by nature, compact and symmetrical, which means that its surface area is limited compared to more elongated shapes.
While the round cut maximizes brilliance due to its precise faceting, the overall surface area it occupies on the finger is smaller, especially when viewed from above.
Princess Cut – Smaller Surface Area
The princess cut has a square or slightly rectangular shape with sharp corners. While this gives the diamond a distinct and modern appearance, it also limits its surface area. Princess cut diamonds have a greater depth compared to their surface area which results in a “taller” diamond that appears more chunky and less expansive. These factors combined affect how large the diamond appears from above.
Tips to Maximize the Look of Your Diamond
Choosing a diamond that looks larger and more radiant doesn't always mean buying a higher carat weight – it’s all about maximizing the visual size and sparkle of your diamond regardless of its actual carat weight. If you want your diamond to appear larger, consider these style and design choices:
- Choose an elongated diamond cut – Oval cut diamonds, marquise cuts, pear-shaped diamonds, and emerald cut diamonds make the stone look larger.
- Opt for a halo setting – A halo of smaller diamonds around the center stone enhances the look of the diamond, making it appear larger.
- Consider a thin band – A delicate, thin band makes the diamond look larger in contrast.
- Select a bright white metal – A white gold setting reflects light around the diamond, boosting its brilliance and visual size.
- Focus on cut quality – A well-cut brilliant cut diamond with excellent facets maximizes brilliance, making the diamond look bigger.
DRD offers styles with many different diamond cuts to ensure that every client finds a stone that aligns with their dream. Most of our engagement rings are custom made and the DRD team is always happy to help customers find the diamond that’s perfect for them! Please reach out – always happy to discuss jewelry magic and the plethora of options with all of you!
