When shopping for a diamond – especially an engagement ring – it’s easy to get caught up in carat weight; after all, bigger often seems better. But while carat weight is important, it’s far from the only factor that determines how impressive a diamond looks.
From cut and shape to setting and design, here’s why carat weight isn’t everything — and how to choose a ring that looks stunning, no matter the size.
1. Cut Impacts Brilliance More Than Size
The cut of a diamond affects how well it reflects light — which directly impacts how much it sparkles. A well-cut 0.70ct diamond can outshine a poorly cut 1.00ct stone. Prioritising cut over carat ensures your diamond delivers maximum brilliance and fire.
2. Shape Changes Perception
Some diamond shapes offer more visual size per carat. For example:
Oval, marquise, and pear-shaped diamonds tend to appear larger than round diamonds of the same weight.
Emerald and radiant cuts offer a broad surface area for a bigger look.
Choosing the right shape can help your diamond appear larger — without increasing the carat.
3. Settings Make a Difference
The setting plays a huge role in how big a diamond appears. A halo setting, for instance, surrounds the centre stone with smaller diamonds, creating the illusion of a much larger gem. Slim bands or elevated settings can also help emphasise the centre stone.
4. Carat Refers to Weight, Not Size
It’s a common misconception that carat refers to a diamond’s size. In reality, it refers to weight, and the actual dimensions vary based on cut and shape. Two diamonds with the same carat weight can look very different in size depending on how they’re cut.
5. Budget Goes Further with Smart Choices
Focusing on cut, shape, and setting allows you to get more visual impact for your budget. Opting for a slightly lower carat weight with excellent proportions and sparkle often offers better overall value.
Find The One
Carat weight is just one piece of the puzzle. By paying attention to cut, shape, and setting, you can choose a diamond that looks beautiful, regardless of the number on the scale. Explore beautifully cut, diamond rings at The Diamond Store and discover designs that maximise brilliance at every size.
Why Carat Weight Isn’t Everything
When shopping for a diamond – especially an engagement ring – it’s easy to get caught up in carat weight; after all, bigger often seems better. But while carat weight is important, it’s far from the only factor that determines how impressive a diamond looks.
From cut and shape to setting and design, here’s why carat weight isn’t everything — and how to choose a ring that looks stunning, no matter the size.
1. Cut Impacts Brilliance More Than Size
The cut of a diamond affects how well it reflects light — which directly impacts how much it sparkles. A well-cut 0.70ct diamond can outshine a poorly cut 1.00ct stone. Prioritising cut over carat ensures your diamond delivers maximum brilliance and fire.
2. Shape Changes Perception
Some diamond shapes offer more visual size per carat. For example:
Choosing the right shape can help your diamond appear larger — without increasing the carat.
3. Settings Make a Difference
The setting plays a huge role in how big a diamond appears. A halo setting, for instance, surrounds the centre stone with smaller diamonds, creating the illusion of a much larger gem. Slim bands or elevated settings can also help emphasise the centre stone.
4. Carat Refers to Weight, Not Size
It’s a common misconception that carat refers to a diamond’s size. In reality, it refers to weight, and the actual dimensions vary based on cut and shape. Two diamonds with the same carat weight can look very different in size depending on how they’re cut.
5. Budget Goes Further with Smart Choices
Focusing on cut, shape, and setting allows you to get more visual impact for your budget. Opting for a slightly lower carat weight with excellent proportions and sparkle often offers better overall value.
Find The One
Carat weight is just one piece of the puzzle. By paying attention to cut, shape, and setting, you can choose a diamond that looks beautiful, regardless of the number on the scale. Explore beautifully cut, diamond rings at The Diamond Store and discover designs that maximise brilliance at every size.
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