When we’re talking about diamonds, size matters. While it might seem like the bigger the diamond, the better, it’s actually more important to consider how big your ring will look on your finger. And if you’re getting a ring for someone else, knowing how their style helps avoid buying something too small (or too big). So what’s the right size for all of these things? As with many things in life, there are no hard and fast rules; but here are some tips that can help make picking out an engagement ring easier:
What makes us your trusted partner
With over 40 years of expertise, Diamond Registry’s CEO and owner, Nissan Perla, is your trusted guide in the diamond-buying world. Recognized by prestigious publications like The Washington Post and Chicago Tribune, Nissan’s extensive knowledge and experience in evaluating, buying, and selling diamonds are unparalleled. Our commitment to integrity, transparency, and delivering exceptional value ensures that you make an informed decision when acquiring your timeless treasure. Choose Diamond Registry for personalized guidance, education, and a curated selection of the finest quality diamonds, backed by decades of industry expertise and dedication to your satisfaction.
What size diamond should I get?
The diameter of the stone is an important factor in determining its size, but not the only one. The cut of the diamond and its depth will also affect how big it is. Speaking of depth, if you want a particular carat weight for your engagement ring but aren’t sure about what size diamond would look best on your hand, use our handy scale below to determine whether you need a big ol’ solitaire or something else altogether.
Do I need to know the shape?
The shape of the diamond is not as important as the 4 Cs. A diamond can always be cut to a different shape if you change your mind, but most people choose what they want and then stick with it.
If you’re looking for more information about shapes, we have a great article here that goes into detail about all types of shapes!
Factors that affect the stone’s size impact.
Carat weight is the most common way to indicate the size of a diamond. A one-carat diamond weighs about 190 milligrams and is equal in size to a cube that measures 5/8 of an inch, or 2.13 cubic centimeters (cc). Carats are divided into 100 points, so if you see a diamond described as “0.70 carats,” it’s actually 70 points and just over half a carat.
Carat weight is determined by a number of factors:
- The rough stone’s size
- How many facets or sides have been cut into the stone to give it its shape (most often round)
- The quality of this cutting and polishing process
Wedding band style
When choosing a wedding band, you’ll want to make sure that it complements your engagement ring. For example, if you have a traditional gold engagement ring with accents of white and yellow gold, then you may want to get a white gold wedding band as well. Alternately, if your engagement ring has an emerald cut center stone surrounded by smaller diamonds on each side (sometimes referred to as “fancy cuts”), then it would be best to go with some similarly shaped or sized stones on the band.
Also keep in mind that while the style of both pieces doesn’t have to match exactly, they should at least share certain features such as metal type or width of materials used. This will help ensure they complement each other visually and don’t clash when worn together
How big is your finger?
The size of a diamond is measured by its weight and cut. To find out what size diamond you need, first measure the circumference of your finger. Then measure the length of your finger from where it connects to your hand to the tip. Next, measure the width of your finger at its thickest point (typically right below the knuckle). Finally, get someone else to measure around all sides of the ring itself when worn (it’s important not to include any metal shank or setting in this measurement).
What does her style say about her jewelry preferences?
- If she’s into vintage jewelry, she might prefer a smaller diamond.
- If she’s into the minimalist look, she might prefer a smaller diamond.
- If she’s into the traditional look, she might prefer a larger diamond.
- 1 Carat DiamondsThe average cost of a 1 carat diamond is $5,000 – $7,500. A one-carat diamond is the most popular size diamond because they are large enough to show off their sparkle, but not too big that they look ostentatious. These diamonds are also small enough that it’s easy to keep them safe when you’re wearing them or storing them in your jewelry box.
- 2 Carat DiamondsThe average cost of a 2 carat diamond ranges from $8,000 – $10,000 per carat[iii]. They’re very similar to one-carat stones in terms of size and price range; however, two-carats might be an option if you’re looking for something with more sparkle than what you’d get from a single stone (and aren’t concerned about having enough room on your finger). Just keep in mind that two-carats total can be quite expensive depending on how much they weigh!
How big should my diamond engagement ring be?
When choosing the size of your diamond, it’s important to consider both the finger and the setting. The size of the diamond is determined by its weight and cut. The weight of a diamond refers to how much a diamond weighs compared to other diamonds in its category. This can range from .40 carats (a quarter-carat) up to 10 carats or more. The cut refers to how well polished it is, which can make it look bigger or smaller than it really is when held up against another stone of similar size but different quality.
The style of your ring will also play into how large a stone you should buy for an engagement ring:
- If you want an old-fashioned Victorian style setting with lots of detailing around your center stone (such as milgrain edges), then a smaller size will work best so that everything looks proportional within what would otherwise be an overstuffed setting; alternatively, if you’re looking for something more modern or minimalist in design (like simple pave settings), then you may be able to get away with larger stones because they won’t look overwhelming when surrounded by simpler elements like metal bands instead of elaborate filigree pieces like those found on older rings.*
The answer to this question comes down to what you can afford and what your significant other wants.
The answer to this question comes down to what you can afford and what your significant other wants. If she’s really into diamonds, she may want a larger stone than you can afford. On the other hand, if he has no interest in sparkly jewelry and would prefer a simple band with an inscription inside it, there’s no need for an expensive diamond solitaire ring that will probably end up at the bottom of your jewelry box after the honeymoon ends. In general, your budget should determine how big or small of a diamond you purchase.
The size of the stone also depends on where it will sit on your finger: A .75 ct oval cut could look enormous on someone with thin fingers—but it would be far too small for someone with large hands or fingers! The key here is moderation: A 1 ct round solitaire might be too big for some women but not others; likewise with any other shape or style of ring!
Finally (and most importantly), remember that while diamonds are forever—marriage is not!
Finding the right size of diamond to buy can be a delicate balancing act. You want to pick one that’s big enough, but not too big. You don’t want it to look cheap or gaudy. And you need to consider what your partner wants as well. If they say they don’t care about the size, then maybe you should go bigger! But if they say they really want something smaller than average, then stick with what she says because she knows herself better than anyone else does.
Bonus!
Sell your diamonds with ease with Diamond Registry’s comprehensive approach and vast global industry connections to help you find the best buyer for your diamond fast. Visit www.diamondregistry.com/sell-your-ring to take your first step to fast, easy and reliable way of selling your diamond.
Want to check and calculate diamond per carat instantly? Go to DR’s diamond price calculator www.diamondregistry.com/diamond-price-list/#calc-move-to to know how. Reliable and trusted carat calculator in the diamond industry since!