Do Bigger Diamonds Always Look Better?

When opting for a diamond, you may think that bigger diamonds always look better. However, the reality is more nuanced. The visual impact of a diamond primarily relies on carat weight. Afterwards, this visual appeal is affected by the cut and shape of the diamond. Buyers also consider the way a diamond interacts with light.

Therefore, SkyGem & Co. is here to explain ‘Do bigger diamonds always look better?’ You will also study the factors that influence the visual appeal of diamond shaped diamonds.

What Makes a Diamond Look Bigger?

Several features contribute to how ‘big’ a diamond looks. The cut quality is the most important of all features. A well-cut stone reflects and returns light so brilliantly that its face-up size feels more expansive.

The face-up surface area - or ‘table’ and spread - also matters. Shapes or proportions that maximise width over depth tend to look larger.

Certain cuts can appear larger per carat due to their elongated outlines. These cuts can be:

• Oval

• Marquise

• Emerald

Settings also play a role. For instance, the apparent size of a diamond can be enhanced by:

• Halo or illusion settings

• Minimal metal

• Low-profile prongs

Read: What is a good quality diamond for engagement rings Melbourne?

Are Bigger Diamonds Better?

‘Better’ is subjective. If your priority is sheer scale, then yes - higher carat diamonds carry prestige and a grander presence.

However, in many cases, a slightly smaller diamond with excellent cut, good colour and clarity will outperform a larger, poorly proportioned one.

The bigger stone can appear dull or lifeless if light leaks through due to bad proportions. Therefore, ‘better’ truly depends on:

• Balance

• Visual performance

Get inspiring ideas to breathe new life into women’s wedding rings.

Do Bigger Diamonds Always Look Better?

No, bigger diamonds do not always look better. A large diamond with inferior cut or depth looks smaller and less brilliant than a smaller diamond with an ideal cut. In fact, this is a persistent myth in diamond buying.

For some buyers, the sparkle, fire, and brilliance matter more than carat weight. In many contexts - especially for everyday wear - a diamond that ‘looks excellent’ at a smaller carat feels good enough to wear than a large, lackluster one.

Get a better fit on your wedding or marriage ring finger.

Are Bigger Diamonds More Expensive?

Yes. The price of diamonds increases non-linearly with carat weight. Each jump in carat - especially above ‘magic thresholds’ - often commands a premium. But, that ‘premium’ only pays off if the quality of the diamond supports it. Paying extra for size while compromising on cut often yields diminishing returns.

The Bottom Line

So, do bigger diamonds always look better?

Undoubtedly, the size of a diamond is alluring. However, bigger does not always mean better when it comes to diamonds. A well-cut, properly proportioned diamond will often outperform a heavier stone in terms of visual brilliance. Therefore, when choosing a diamond, expect the best results by prioritising cut, shape, and optical performance.

Get the best one from our diamond pendant necklace collection!