Finding the Perfect Diamond: A Guide to Shape, Size, and Budget Based on Your Ring Size

When it comes to purchasing a diamond, the options can be overwhelming. From choosing the ideal shape and size to fitting your budget, it can feel like a lot to take in. However, one key factor that can guide your decision-making is your finger size. Your ring size can significantly influence what will look best on your hand. This blog post will help you navigate these choices, from selecting the perfect diamond shape and size to understanding trending jewelry settings and even looking at celebrity-inspired choices for a little extra sparkle.

So, what IS the perfect diamond shape for you?

There are several popular options, each with its own unique appeal. You have the traditional shapes

• Round Brilliant Cut:
  The most popular diamond shape, known for its classic beauty and timeless brilliance. A round diamond sparkles more than any other shape, and it’s ideal for people who appreciate traditional, understated elegance. Many celebrities opt for this timeless look, including Emily Blunt. For a finger with a smaller size (like a size 4-6), a round diamond in the 0.75-1.25 carat range will stand out without overwhelming your hand. For a larger ring size (like a size 7-9) we suggest 1.00-2.50 carat range

• Princess Cut:
  A trendy and modern cut that combines the elegance of a square or rectangular shape with the brilliance of a round cut. Princess cuts are versatile and look great on smaller fingers. For a finger size of 4-6, a 0.75-1.00 carat princess cut is an excellent balance of size and sophistication.

• Cushion Cut:
  A romantic and vintage-inspired cut that combines rounded corners with a square shape. It’s a great option for those looking for something a little different. A 1.00-1.25 carat cushion cut works beautifully on a size 5.5-7 finger, making it an elegant yet substantial choice. Add a halo for extra dazzle or rock a classic solitaire like Kate Bosworth. Cushion cuts are among the most versatile shapes.

• Oval Cut:
  The oval cut gives the illusion of a larger stone while maintaining the classic appeal of a round diamond. This shape can elongate the appearance of fingers, making it a fantastic choice for those with smaller hands. An oval diamond between 1.00-3.00 carats would suit any finger size. The shape and brilliance of an oval diamond adds a romantic and sophisticated feel on all hand shapes and finger sizes; putting oval cut at the top of our favorite list! Wear it with a stunning halo like Princess Diana. Hailey Bieber’s oval diamond, set in a classic solitaire setting, has inspired countless brides-to-be who appreciate modern simplicity.

• Emerald Cut:
  Known for its elegant, rectangular shape and “hall of mirrors” effect, the emerald cut is perfect for those looking for a sophisticated, understated diamond. Its open facets and unique cut make it stand out on larger fingers, but for a finger size 7-8, a 1.25-2.25 carat emerald cut diamond will create a striking balance. With that said, it’s no surprise that Taylor Hill chose this shape for her engagement.

• Marquise Cut:
  This shape resembles a football, with pointed ends that give the illusion of a larger diamond. It works beautifully on smaller fingers as it creates the illusion of length. For a finger size 5-6.5, a 1.00-2.50 carat marquise cut would be ideal for a bold, eye-catching look. The beauty of this shape though, you can wear a bold size and the diamond won’t look disproportionate. A perfect example of this is Selena Gomez’s beautiful 8 carat Marquise engagement ring.

Now that we have some shapes, what’s next?

While the diamond shape plays a huge role, the size (carat weight) also matters. So how do you decide what size to get? Maybe you’re thinking bigger is always better, right? Not necessarily. You don’t want a stone that will overwhelm your hand.

So what is a good diamond size then? Here’s a general guide to help you make the right choice:

• Size 4-5 (Small Fingers):
  If you have a smaller finger, a diamond between 0.75 to 1.50 carats will complement your hand without looking too large. Anything bigger may overwhelm the finger, making the diamond appear too bulky. Consider shapes like round or oval for a balanced look.

• Size 6-7 (Average Fingers):
  For average-sized fingers, diamonds between 1.00 and 2.50 carats will look elegant and proportional. Most shapes work well here, including cushion, oval, and princess cuts.

• Size 8-9 (Larger Fingers):
  Larger fingers can pull off bigger stones. Diamonds between 1.50 and 3.00 carats work beautifully on larger hands. Square, emerald, and marquise cuts can add dimension and sophistication to your ring.

Okay, so we have an idea on the shape and size. Lets talk about budget

There are a few factors to consider when you’re trying to stay in budget. Like,

will you choose a yellow gold setting? Yellow gold tends to reflect in the diamond, giving it a slightly yellow tint. If you’re on a budget and you want a yellow gold setting, this can work in your favor. opt for a lower color grade for a more wallet friendly price.

Natural or lab grown? Lab grown diamonds will always be budget friendly, and eco-friendly! ( and yes, it is the same thing)

Are inclusion okay? Nobody wants a big inclusion in the middle of their gorgeous diamond ring but many inclusions are invisible to the naked eye or easy to hide under a prong or bezel setting. Consider choosing a diamond with inclusions for a more appealing price.

Alright! So you found your dream diamond and the price is right! We’re done right?

Well, not quite. Let’s talk SETTINGS!

Solitaire settings This classic setting features a single diamond and is perfect for a clean, elegant look. Celebrities like Ramona Agruma (with her iconic Tiffany setting) and Megan Markle have embraced this timeless style.

The halo setting encircles the center stone with smaller diamonds, enhancing the diamond’s size and sparkle. A popular choice among celebrities, this setting is often seen in the rings of Penelope Cruz and Nikki Reed. It’s a glamorous choice that adds extra brilliance to any diamond, making it appear larger.

Three Stone Settings This setting feature three diamonds, often symbolizing the past, present, and future. Celebrities like Demi Lovato and Victoria Beckham have worn three-stone engagement rings, embracing its emotional symbolism while maintaining elegance.

For a more romantic and antique feel, vintage-inspired settings, with intricate details like milgrain or filigree work, are incredibly popular. Lady Gaga’s engagement ring, with its unique vintage touch, has inspired many brides looking for something that tells a story.

When choosing a diamond, your finger size should guide the decision on shape and size. It’s essential to consider how the diamond will look on your hand and what feels comfortable within your budget. Whether you’re drawn to a round brilliant cut, a modern oval, or a vintage-inspired cushion cut, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Take inspiration from the celebrities who have helped shape diamond trends, and trust that the right diamond will bring out the best in your hand’s natural beauty.