What Diamond Shape Looks The Biggest
When you choose a diamond, size matters—but it’s not just about carat weight. The shape of your diamond plays a major role in how large it looks on your hand. Some cuts maximize surface area and sparkle, creating the illusion of a bigger stone without increasing carat weight. Others may carry more weight in depth, appearing smaller when viewed from the top.
At Simone & Son, we guide couples in Orange County through every detail of custom design—including helping you select the diamond shape that looks the biggest and best suits your style.
Why Shape Influences Size
A diamond’s “face-up” appearance (what you see when you look down at it) depends on how its carat weight is distributed. Shapes with more spread across the surface, elongated proportions, or brilliant faceting patterns often appear larger than their carat weight suggests.
This means that two diamonds of the same weight can look very different in size depending on shape and cut.
Diamond Shapes That Look the Largest
Marquise Cut Diamonds
The marquise cut has pointed ends and a long body, giving it one of the biggest spreads for its carat size. It can look significantly larger while maintaining elegance and distinction.
Oval Cut Diamonds
Ovals are elongated, which makes them look larger than round diamonds of the same weight. They also create a slimming effect on the finger, making them a favorite for modern brides.
Pear-Shaped Diamonds
With a rounded end tapering to a point, pear shapes combine the benefits of ovals and marquise cuts. They look large, elongate the finger, and offer a unique, romantic silhouette.
Emerald Cut Diamonds
Though emerald cuts have fewer facets and less sparkle than brilliants, their large, open table gives them an impressive face-up size. They look bold and elegant on the hand.
Radiant and Cushion Cuts
Radiant and cushion cuts blend sparkle with shape. While they may not always look as large as ovals or marquise cuts, their faceting creates brilliance that draws the eye, making them appear bigger.
Quick Tip: Among round, princess, and oval diamonds of the same carat weight, the oval almost always looks largest.
Diamond Shapes That Look Smaller
Not all shapes maximize size perception.
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Round Brilliant: Timeless and sparkling, but much of the carat weight sits below the surface.
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Princess Cut: Square-shaped with less surface spread, so it appears smaller compared to elongated shapes.
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Asscher Cut: With deep steps and a high crown, it holds weight below the surface, looking smaller from the top.
These shapes are still beautiful—just less size-optimized.
Does Setting Style Impact Size Perception?
Yes. The right setting can enhance the apparent size of your diamond:
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Halo settings: A circle of smaller diamonds adds visual width.
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Thin bands: A slim shank makes the center stone look larger in proportion.
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Bezel settings: While protective, they can make a diamond appear smaller by outlining the edges.
Choosing a setting is just as important as choosing the shape when it comes to maximizing visual size.
What Shape Is Right for You?
The biggest-looking shape may not always be the best choice—it depends on your style, finger shape, and the design you envision.
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Prefer timeless sparkle? Round brilliant is unmatched.
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Want your diamond to look larger for the same carat? Consider oval, pear, or marquise.
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Love bold elegance? An emerald cut may suit you.
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Want soft edges with modern flair? Try a cushion or radiant cut.
How Simone & Son Helps You Choose
Selecting the right diamond shape isn’t just about size—it’s about balance. At Simone & Son, we help you compare shapes side by side so you can see the difference for yourself. Our Orange County showroom offers both natural and lab-grown diamonds in a variety of shapes, with custom settings to maximize your center stone.
From CAD design to final polish, our family has crafted engagement rings for generations—making sure your diamond not only looks its best but tells your story.
Conclusion: Size, Style, and Story
So, what diamond shape looks the biggest? Ovals, marquise, and pear-shaped diamonds lead the way—but the perfect choice depends on more than just size. The right cut, setting, and design will make your diamond shine in a way that feels uniquely yours.
At Simone & Son, we invite you to explore diamond shapes, compare them in person, and create a custom ring that balances brilliance, size, and your personal style.
Visit us at 10124 Adams Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
(714) 964-4012 | ✉️ info@simoneandson.com
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