Choosing the size of your center stone is no easy task. Think about your budget, finger shape, and what you would like to achieve with you ring design.
Think About the Budget
The size of your center stone normally is determined by budget. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that diamond alternatives such as moissanites and precious gems such as sapphires and Morganites can offer you a big look for less than the price of a diamond. The price per carat on gems other than diamond can be significantly lower and definitely budget friendly.
Take a look at our video gallery showing different carat weight diamonds side by side
This is also sortable by size and budget so you can narrow downt your options from the start and get a good sense of what is available in your range.
Find Out What You Like
It’s very helpful to try on engagement rings in person to help determine the shape and size best suited for you. There is no rule about how big the stone should be compared to your ring size! We make so many different engagement rings for our clients and there are those who prefer a smaller stone and those who prefer a larger one. Finger size is irrelevant to this decision. We find it has more to do with what you would like to achieve visually and like best on yourself
Center Stone Size Tricks
There are center stones that are known for looking larger than their carat weight. Take the pear cut for example. This stone spreads across the finger north/south and has a wide base to make the shape even larger. Similar to the pear shape, the oval, radiant and emerald cut all spread across the finger north/south for a larger look which also elongates the finger. Essentially you would get a bigger look for less carat weight with these shapes.
Elongated oval diamond
Things To Remember
There are some center stones that most of our clients prefer to be bigger or not at all such as the emerald cut. The emerald cut is an understated and elegant step cut diamond that offers no brilliance. Instead, it offers an Art Deco style arrangement of clean elongated facets best admired from up close. As you do need to take a further look to fully appreciate this stone’s intricacies, it’s not unheard of to prefer an emerald cut at 1.50 cts.+ but if that is not within the budget, to go in a different direction completely. This is because a stone will brilliance will sparkle and catch your eye across the room at any size.
Round halo engagement ring
You can always increase the size appearance of a center stone by adding a seamless diamond halo! Lauren B’s diamond halos will increase the center stone size by at least 1.00 carat. Check out our halo designs on our website here.
Contact us today to discuss your center stone size interests and questions! Our diamond consultants look forward to hearing from you.