Selecting The Right Size For Your Sweetheart

When shopping for diamonds for that special woman in your life – whether it’s an engagement ring, pendant, bracelet, or classic stud earrings – size isn’t everything… but it sure matters. Pick a stone that’s too small, and she’ll need a magnifying glass every time she admires it (and good luck impressing her friends). Go too big, and she might be too nervous to wear it (let’s be real – most women don’t want to look like they’re trying too hard). Finding that perfect diamond takes some thought, but with a few simple guidelines, you’ll nail it for any occasion.

1. Under half a carat. This size is really only suitable for everyday diamond studs (earrings), tennis bracelets, or diamond necklaces (not pendants—think a strand of smaller diamonds… though each stone should be under half a carat, not the total weight of the whole necklace). While this size works well as accent stones around a larger center diamond in pendants or rings, it’s just too small to stand on its own.
2. Up to 1 carat. A 0.5 to 1-carat diamond can work as an engagement ring if chosen carefully, but this size is really better suited for a stunning pair of earrings. You could also go for a bracelet or necklace with multiple stones, but keep in mind—too many small gems might outshine your loved one’s natural sparkle.
3. Between 1 and 2 carats. Not too large and not too small, this tends to be the preferred size for engagement rings. You won’t break the bank and she’ll have an adequately sized sparkler to wow her gal pals.
4. Between 2 and 3 carats. Now you’re getting into pendant range. A stone this size sported solo on a bare neckline will make draw attention, but not detract. You can use it for a ring, but it could be considered a bit flashy. If you really want to give her an experience of wide-eyed awe, buy a matching set and make them into long drop earrings.
5. Over 3 carats. If her idea of a good diamonds is “the bigger the better”, then you can’t go wrong with anything over this benchmark. It may not be tasteful, but it will certainly garner attention.