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Diamonds are usually the ultimate symbol of beauty and luxury, yet when it comes to selecting the right one, many people struggle to reconcile size versus cost. The bigger the diamond, the more expensive it is, yet you might be surprised to learn that there are methods of making your diamond look even larger for less money. The trick is in how your diamond is set, its shape, cut, and how you maintain it. In this blog, we will discuss some tips and tricks to enhance the visual appeal of your diamond without adding to its carat weight.
1. Choose the Right Setting:
One of the best methods of making a diamond look bigger is through choosing an appropriate setting. Although the actual size of the diamond matters, the setting may contribute significantly to its appearance.
Halo Settings:
A halo setting is a great way to make a diamond look bigger. This type of setting creates a ring around the center diamond using smaller diamonds, giving the illusion of an even larger and more prominent center stone. Light is reflected from the halo, enhancing the glow of the center diamond, causing it to appear much larger than it really is. Halo settings complement all types of diamond shapes, from rounds to cushions, so they're a good pick.
Cathedral Setting:
The cathedral setting raises the diamond higher than the band, creating more room and height. The curved metalwork not only provides a touch of elegance but also makes the diamond look larger visually by picking it up higher off the finger. The extra height lets more light travel through the stone, making it sparkle and look larger.
Solitaire Setting with Thin Band:
A solitaire setting emphasizes the diamond itself, with one stone resting on a band. Opting for a thin band makes the diamond look bigger since the focus is solely on the stone, without distraction from a heavy band. The thin band also provides contrast, making the diamond look even more prominent.
2. Opt for a Higher Quality Cut:
When it comes to diamond size, carat weight might be the first thing that springs to mind, but a diamond's cut is equally, if not more, significant. Because it will reflect more light and sparkle more than a poorly cut diamond of the same carat weight, a well-cut diamond can seem larger.
Ideal Cut:
A diamond with the proper dimensions, angles, and facets will reflect light in the best possible way. Precisely cut diamonds appear larger and sparkle more. Even with a higher carat weight, a poorly cut diamond will appear smaller and duller because it does not optimize light reflection.
Round Brilliant Cut:
One of the greatest options for enhancing the diamond's visible size is the round brilliant cut. This cut tends to reflect light better because of its symmetrical shape and multiple facets, creating the appearance of a larger, brighter diamond. A well-cut round diamond can appear significantly larger than another shape of the same carat weight, even though it might not be the most affordable choice.
3. Consider the Diamond’s Shape:
The cut of a diamond has a big influence on how big it will look on your finger. Some shapes create the illusion of a larger diamond than others, without having to add more carat weight.
Oval, Marquise, and Pear Shapes:
These shapes are elongated, creating the illusion of a larger size. Oval, marquise, and pear-shaped diamonds have a more extensive surface area compared to round diamonds, so they look larger. These shapes are perfect substitutes for clients who desire a more spacious appearance without having to spend more on a greater carat weight.
Cushion and Emerald Cuts:
Cushion and emerald cuts also appear to be larger because they possess larger surface areas than rounded diamonds. Cushion cut, with its softened corners, tends to make the diamond appear more voluminous with its wider profile, whereas emerald cut's step-cutting produces an stretched appearance, with maximum apparent size.
4. Use a Diamond Band or Setting with Visual Impact:
The diamond's band and setting may also contribute to the stone's appearance of size. Even though the diamond is the main attraction, its framing can make it stand out even more.
Metal Selection:
Select platinum or white gold for the diamond's settings. The diamond's visual appeal is improved by the subtle contrast and light reflection these metals provide. The diamond appears more noticeable due to the contrast between it and the gleaming metal. Conversely, yellow gold might not produce as dramatic a contrast.
Prong Settings:
A prong setting with minimal metal around the diamond can give the stone more exposure. A setting with less metal around the diamond, like a four-prong or six-prong setting, allows more light to hit the diamond, making it sparkle more and appear larger. This is especially effective with round diamonds.
5. Keep the Setting Clean and Well-Maintained:
A diamond will always appear its best when it is clean and well-maintained, which may give the impression that it is larger. Daily wear can cause diamonds to collect oil and dirt over time, dulling their sparkle. Here are a few easy ways to maintain the brilliance of your diamond:
Frequent Cleaning:
Maintaining the highest level of sparkle in your diamond requires routine cleaning. To get rid of any accumulation, you can use a gentle brush and a mild dish soap solution.
Prevent Damage and Scratches:
A dull or scratched diamond may become less brilliant and appear smaller. Always treat your diamond with care, and have it cleaned by a professional and inspected for damage on a regular basis.
6. Choose a Diamond with a Lower Profile:
Since they sit closer to the finger, diamonds with a lower profile appear larger. The stone appears larger and more centered on the finger because these diamonds don't sit as high. It's also a sensible option because a lower profile diamond keeps from snagging on clothes or other items.
Final Thoughts:
While carat weight is crucial in deciding on a diamond, size isn't the only thing. By choosing the correct setting, cut, and shape, as well as proper care for your diamond, you can make your stone look far larger without the need to raise its carat weight. For diamonds, perception can be reality. With these suggestions, you can have a bigger-looking diamond without going broke.
