When selecting a diamond, size perception plays a significant role. While carat weight directly affects a diamond’s size, its shape and cut can dramatically impact how large it appears. Some diamond shapes are cut to maximize spread, creating an optical illusion of a bigger stone, even if they weigh the same as another shape.
If you're searching for an engagement ring that gives you the largest look for your budget, this guide explores which diamond shapes appear the biggest, why they create that effect, and how you can enhance the visual size of your chosen stone.
Which Diamond Shapes Look the Largest?
Not all diamond shapes carry their weight the same way. Some retain more surface area on top, making them look larger, while others are deeper, with more weight hidden beneath the surface.
1. Oval Cut Diamonds – The Ultimate Elongation
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Why it looks bigger: Oval diamonds have an elongated shape that stretches across the finger, giving a larger visual presence.
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Best ratio: A length-to-width ratio between 1.35 and 1.50 creates the perfect balance between size and sparkle.
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Additional perks: The soft curves and lack of sharp edges make oval diamonds more durable than pointed shapes.
An oval diamond set in a thin band or halo setting enhances its already impressive size perception.
2. Marquise Cut Diamonds – Maximum Spread
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Why it looks bigger: The marquise cut has the largest crown surface area of any diamond shape, making it appear much larger than its carat weight suggests.
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Best ratio: A ratio between 1.85 and 2.10 helps maximize size without looking too narrow.
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Additional perks: This cut’s pointed ends create an elegant, elongated look on the finger.
A marquise diamond set in a north-south orientation emphasizes length, while an east-west setting creates a modern, unique look.
3. Pear Cut Diamonds – Brilliant and Bold
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Why it looks bigger: The combination of a rounded end and a tapered point stretches the appearance of the diamond.
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Best ratio: 1.50 to 1.75 is ideal for maintaining symmetry and maximizing size.
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Additional perks: A pear-shaped diamond looks stunning as a solitaire or surrounded by a halo for even more presence.
When worn with the pointed end facing outward, a pear diamond can create a slimming effect on the hand.
4. Emerald Cut Diamonds – Large, Open Facets
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Why it looks bigger: While emerald cuts don’t have the same depth as round diamonds, their broad, open facets create an illusion of size.
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Best ratio: A ratio between 1.40 and 1.55 balances proportion and surface area.
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Additional perks: This cut shows clarity more than sparkle, making higher clarity grades preferable.
Choosing an emerald-cut diamond with a bezel setting can enhance its sleek, modern look while protecting its corners.
5. Radiant Cut Diamonds – A Bold Alternative
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Why it looks bigger: A hybrid between round and emerald cuts, the radiant cut maximizes brilliance while still offering an elongated look.
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Best ratio: For a square radiant, aim for 1.00 to 1.05; for a rectangular shape, 1.20 to 1.35 works best.
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Additional perks: This cut has rounded edges, making it more durable than sharper shapes.
A radiant cut set with side stones can further enhance its size perception while adding extra brilliance.
Choosing the Right Diamond Setting to Maximize Size
Your diamond shape plays a huge role in how large it appears, but the setting also contributes to its overall impact. Here are some ways to make any diamond appear larger:
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Halo Setting – Surrounding your center stone with a ring of smaller diamonds creates a bigger, more eye-catching look.
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Thin Band – A slender band makes the diamond look proportionally larger in contrast.
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Bezel Setting – Enclosing the diamond in metal can create a smooth, modern look that enhances its visual presence.
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East-West Setting – Rotating an elongated diamond (like an emerald or marquise) sideways creates a unique wider look.
Looking for a unique custom setting? Explore Acredo’s custom jewelry design options to craft a ring that enhances the beauty of your diamond.
Round Brilliant vs. Fancy-Cut Diamonds: Which Looks Bigger?
The round brilliant cut is the most popular diamond shape, but does it look the biggest?
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Round Brilliant Diamonds – Offer the most brilliance but retain more depth than spread, so they don’t always appear as large as elongated shapes.
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Fancy-Cut Diamonds (Oval, Marquise, Pear, Radiant, etc.) – These shapes have more surface area on top, meaning they often look bigger than a round diamond of the same carat weight.
If you prioritize brilliance over size perception, round diamonds remain the best choice. But if you want a larger-looking stone, opt for an elongated shape.
How to Choose the Right Diamond Shape for You
Selecting the best diamond shape comes down to your personal style, hand shape, and budget.
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If you love classic brilliance, go for a round brilliant.
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If you want a larger look, try an oval, marquise, or pear cut.
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If you love vintage glamour, an emerald or radiant cut is ideal.
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If you want something bold and unique, consider a radiant or east-west set stone.
Need expert guidance? Acredo’s personalized consultation can help you find the perfect diamond shape and setting to suit your vision.
Find the Perfect Diamond at Acredo
At Acredo, we specialize in custom-designed jewelry that lets you create an engagement ring that’s truly yours. Whether you want a classic round diamond or a stunning elongated cut that looks larger than life, our expert team is here to guide you through every step.
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Explore our diamond selection
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Visit an Acredo showroom near you
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Design your custom engagement ring today
Find the diamond that speaks to your love story with Acredo.