What Diamond Cut Looks The Largest?

 

They say that size doesn't matter, or does it? While size is one factor to consider when shopping for your perfect diamond, it should not be at the top of your list. How the diamond appears on your finger matters as much as its size. Many diamond shoppers think a larger carat equals better quality, but that is far from the truth. The diamond cut and shape greatly influence the diamond's perceived size. 

This guide will help you understand which diamond cuts for rings make a ring look its largest without increasing carat weight or cost.

Carat Weight vs. Cut

The two main characteristics people look for when shopping for diamonds are carat and cut. A carat is a measurement of a diamond's actual weight, not its visible size, whereas the cut refers to shape. Think of the difference like fruit. The carat will let you know how much each piece of fruit weighs, but the cut is the type of fruit you select. The heavier the fruit or diamond doesn't necessarily equal higher quality—it just means it's heavier. 

This is where the different shapes of diamonds come into play. A well-cut diamond maximizes light reflection, making it appear larger and more brilliant. Investing in a high-quality cut ensures your diamond shines brightly and looks its best, even with a modest carat weight.

 

Diamond Table Size vs. Depth

Two other essential characteristics of a diamond's appearance are its table size and depth. A diamond's table is its flat top surface, and the depth is the height from top to bottom. 

A diamond's table showcases the gem's brilliance. Its size is crucial because it influences how light reflects and refracts, which dictates the diamond's sparkle. Think of a diamond's table as a mirror in a small room. The larger the mirror, the more light it can reflect around a space. Similarly, a diamond with a bigger table surface captures and redirects the light that enters, making it appear more brilliant and larger than it is!

The diamond's cut affects how light travels within a diamond. The depth is measured from the table to the bottom tip of the stone and expressed as a percentage of the diamond's total diameter. A shallow depth spreads the diamond's weight across a wider surface area, which creates the illusion of a larger stone. However, if it is too shallow, you may lose brilliance. Conversely, deep cuts may look smaller despite their carat weight as more of the diamond's weight is hidden in the bottom.

 

Diamond Shape Comparison: Which Shapes Look the Biggest?

Now that you understand the basics, let's see how they apply to diamond shapes! Here are some options:

Marquise Cut

The Marquise Cut features an elongated shape with two pointed ends resembling a football. This classic diamond cut has a central flat facet at the top of the diamond, resulting in a naturally large table. This combination optimizes light dispersion within the diamond, giving it extra sparkle.  Additionally, its elegant shape makes fingers appear longer and slimmer, enhancing the diamond's perceived size.

Pear Cut

This diamond shape pairs a rounded back with a pointed tip, much like its namesake. Known also as the teardrop, the Pear Cut boasts the best attributes of both round and Marquise Cut diamonds. It features a larger table, allowing ample light entry and enhancing the diamond's brilliance. This cut style has a higher depth percentage than round diamonds, giving them a larger perceived size, similar to the Marquise Cut.

Oval Cut

The Oval Cut combines the appeal of a classic round diamond cut with a unique elongated shape. The oval shape gives the cut a larger table, as we know, results in more brilliance and perceived size. Even more exciting is that the oval cut features a depth percentage similar to round cuts, giving you more visible brightness. 

Elongated Emerald Cut

While Emerald Cuts have fewer facets, the elongated version features a large, open table that showcases the stone's clarity and linear faceting. Although this cut style doesn't aim to dazzle with brilliance, the Emerald Cut offers a sophisticated, modern elegance.

Round Brilliant Cut

Unlike the more elongated shapes on the list, a well cut round diamond prioritizes brilliance over surface area. Round diamonds will refract the most light allowing for more sparkle to catch the eye and creating an illusion of a larger diamond.

Shapes to Avoid if Perceived Size is a Priority

Although all engagement ring diamond cuts have their charm, some appear smaller due to their proportions or depth:

Princess Cut

The square design often hides more weight in the pavilion (bottom part), reducing the visible size.

Cushion Cut

While soft and romantic, its rounded edges and deeper cut make it appear smaller.

Asscher Cut

Its step-cut design emphasizes clarity but lacks the elongation or width to maximize perceived size.

 

Diamond Cuts for Rings: How the Setting Affects Appearance

In addition to picking the right diamond cut and shape, the ring setting can amplify your diamond's perceived size. 

• Halo settings surround the central diamond with smaller stones, creating the illusion of a larger centerpiece.

• Three stone settings feature side stones that enhance the center diamond's size.

• Solitaire Settings focuses solely on the central diamond, maximizing its impact.

Also, consider the prong size and arrangement. Smaller prongs expose more of the diamond's surface, making it appear larger, and strategic prong placement helps emphasize the diamond's dimensions.

 

Other Factors That Affect Apparent Size in Diamonds

Beyond cut and setting, consider these elements to maximize your diamond's perceived size:

Clarity

Diamonds with fewer flaws reflect light better, making them sparkle and look bigger. Choose clarity grades like VS1 or VS2 for a good mix of quality and value.

Cut Quality

Cut quality measures the proportions, alignment, and polish of a diamond's facets, directly impacting its light performance. Grading systems like the GIA cut quality from Excellent to Poor. Choose higher-rated cuts to help make the diamond appear larger.

Color

Color grades impact a diamond's overall brightness. Whiter diamonds (grades D-F) reflect light better, creating a brighter and larger appearance.

 

The biggest diamond cut is about more than carat weight. By prioritizing the cut, shape, and setting, you can maximize its perceived size while staying within your budget. Keeping these characteristics in mind while you shop will help you pick the best diamond for your big day!