A Deep Dive Into Pear-Shaped Diamonds

A number of non-classical shapes have increased heavily in popularity among those purchasing diamond rings in recent years, and one that’s very notable and often desirable among younger buyers is the pear shape. Also sometimes called a “teardrop” cut, the pear-shaped diamond has roots that date back centuries – but has only recently begun to see a surge in popularity again.

At AAA Jewelers, we’re here to offer a huge range of stunning engagement rings, wedding rings and other diamond jewelry for clients throughout Utah. We provide clients with a wide range of shapes and options for their diamond needs, and we’ll be happy to discuss any particular shape you or your partner might be interested in. What is the pear-shaped diamond, how long has it been around, and what are some key elements to consider if this is the shape you’re interested in purchasing? Let’s take a look.

Pear-Shaped Diamond Basics and History

As we noted above, the pear-shaped diamond is often referred to as a “teardrop” cut. This is because the shape follows this design, with one rounded end and another that tapers off to a point.

The pear-shaped diamond has been around for centuries; its roots are thought to have originated in fifteenth century Belgium, where a gem cutter named Lodewyk van Bercken created a new version of a diamond-cutting wheel that was capable of very different cuts than had been seen before. He was inspired by the shape of a pear; hence, the birth of the pear-shaped diamond.

However, this cut didn’t exactly explode in popularity as soon as it was invented. Because van Bercken was one of the only people of that time period who had the ability to produce this cut, it was rarely seen. It wasn’t until centuries later that the pear-shaped diamond would start to gain more recognition and widespread use.

Today, though, it’s growing quickly in popularity. Many younger couples seem to be drawn to its unique shape, as it provides a beautiful balance of traditional and modern elements in one piece of jewelry.

Advantages of Pear-Shaped Diamonds Over Other Unique Shapes

Pear is not the only uniquely-shaped diamond type that has grown in popularity in recent years; there are several others as well. And while individual taste and needs will vary between each buyer, there are a few advantages pear-shaped diamonds tend to hold over some of these other types. Here are a few basic examples:

• Oval diamonds: While pear-shaped diamonds are similar to ovals in many ways, a key difference is the pointed tip of the former that is absent in the latter. This can make for a more dramatic presentation and set it off from traditional round diamonds.
• Marquise diamonds: While marquise diamonds are similar to the pear-shaped diamond, their predominant characteristics are longer rather than wider. The pear-shaped diamond offers a better balance of width and length that many people prefer.
• Heart-shaped diamonds: While these aren’t as popular as some of the other diamond shapes, there are still many buyers who prefer them. If this is your desired shape, the pear-shaped diamond offers a more subtle approach to a similar look without going too overboard with the sentimentality of a heart.

To be clear, no one is saying that you can’t go with one of these other diamond shapes instead. As stated, different buyers have different needs and preferences. But if you are interested in the pear-shaped diamond specifically, there are indeed advantages that make it stand out compared to some of these other options.

The Four Cs

The Four Cs are a well-known part of diamond shopping, and there are a few specific ways they should be considered for any pear-shaped diamond. Here’s a look at each of them:

• Color: Pear diamonds are known to show color quite easily, meaning that higher-quality diamonds are often preferred. Try to find a diamond with a color rating of at least H or higher, if you can.
• Clarity: Pear-shaped diamonds are ideal for hiding imperfections, similar to marquise diamonds. However, they may have a bow-tie effect that can detract from their overall appearance. Be sure to look carefully at a pear-shaped diamond and check for any signs of the bow-tie.
• Cut: Pear diamonds are typically referred to as a hybrid diamond cut, one that falls between an oval and a marquise, but with a rounded top and pointed button. They will generally be very bright and reflective, with lots of fire.
• Carat: Another great benefit of pear-shaped diamonds is that they can appear larger than they actually are, due to their unique shape. If you’re looking for a large diamond on a budget, this might be a great option.

Shape Ratios

Another important aspect to consider when buying a pear-shaped diamond is the shape ratio. This measures the length of the diamond compared to its width, with a higher ratio (the diamond is longer than it is wide) usually being more desirable. A good example of this would be 1.8x – which indicates that the length of the diamond is 1.8 times its width.

With pear-shaped diamonds in particular, ideal ratios tend to fall between 1.4 and 1.7 in most cases. This is because a longer diamond will often appear bigger and more stunning in comparison to a wider stone. Too much width will also detract from the beauty of the stone.

When buying a pear-shaped diamond, it’s important to keep all of these factors in mind. The shape ratio, cut quality and carat size are all important things to consider when making your purchase – but so is the overall look and feel that you want for your ring. With some careful consideration and a bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect pear-shaped diamond for your ring.

And at AAA Jewelers, we’ll be happy to assist you with that process. Our highly trained team of professionals understands the importance of finding exactly what you’re looking for and will provide you with excellent customer service throughout your diamond shopping journey. Contact us today to learn more about our pear-shaped diamonds or any other diamond or jewelry option we have available!