19.06.24

How To Know If A Pear Shaped Engagement Ring Is Right For You

Ah, the engagement ring. An everlasting symbol of sticky-sweet love, once-in-a-lifetime grand gestures, and countless cringe-worthy TV proposals. Anyone remember Aiden’s failure of a pear shaped engagement ring on Sex and the City, for example? While SATC racked up more than its share of engagements (whether they lasted or not), finding the perfect ring for your partner is admittedly a pressure-filled problem. It’s so easy to get lost in a sea of sparkling settings and celeb-sized gobstoppers.

But if you’re here, you’re probably considering a pear-shaped engagement ring for good reason. Or at least we’ll proceed under that assumption. It’s not a shape for everyone. But these teardrop-shaped beauties do have a certain je ne sais quoi that sets them apart from other traditional diamond cuts. So, is a pear shaped engagement ring right for you? Let’s figure it out!

Understanding the Pear Shaped Engagement Ring

First things first, what exactly is a pear shaped engagement ring? Invented by the Flemish polisher Lodewyk (Louis) van Berquem in 1458, this shape is also known as a teardrop diamond. He gave it the unique combination of round and marquise shapes, with one pointed end, offering a blend of elegance and distinctive style. It’s a shape that’s incredibly flattering when set vertically along the finger, which is the traditional way. But can also offer some modern edge when set asymmetrically in an east-west setting, or twisted at a fun angle.

Pear-shaped diamonds are not just about beauty—they’re about making a statement, blending vintage charm with contemporary flair. They work in a wide variety of engagement ring settings, from showstopping solitaires to halo engagement rings to modern half-bezel beauties, allowing you to get creative when designing your dream ring. And they do face up a bit larger than their carat weight, so it’s a shape that can give you more dazzle for your dollar.

A pear shaped diamond sits sideways in sparkling detail against a marble backdrop — Despite its modern appearance, the pear cut diamond dates all the way back to 1458 in Belgium. If you’re looking for an antique pear cut diamond, consider old mine pear diamonds.

A pear shaped engagement ring with half bezel setting in yellow gold — Carrie’s hatred of pear a pear cut diamond set in yellow gold is, honestly, her biggest fashion faux pas. Particularly because there are actually engagement rings that deserve a cocked eye.

Is a Pear Shaped Engagement Ring Popular?

Celebrities have long been fans of pear shaped engagement rings. Perhaps most famously making Carrie Bradshaw’s brief engagement to Aidan Shaw on Sex and the City featured an impression-making pear shaped gold solitaire, pear rings are all over the silver screen. From Elizabeth Taylor to Ariana Grande, Margo Robbie to Cardi B, celebs have been flaunting this classic diamond shape, cementing its status as a go-to choice for those seeking something a bit different.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pear Shaped Diamond

When choosing any diamond engagement ring, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—as these determine how beautiful the diamond is along with its price tag. But these characteristics can also show up differently in different diamond shapes.

For pear shaped diamonds, consider:

Your pear cut diamond color grade

If you’re flirting with a white gold or platinum setting, make sure your diamond is as colorless as a winter wonderland by going for a higher color grade. But, if you’re looking to cozy up with something a bit more golden, wrap that champagne diamond in yellow gold. It’s like giving your gem a warm hug, making those buttery hues pop

A fancy blue pear shaped engagement ring in a solitaire white gold setting — There’s something special about colored diamonds, particularly in the pear cut. Keep color theory in mind when setting your diamond so all of its dazzling hues can display.

A bowtie? No thanks! Always be sure to see your stone in person to ensure that your bowtie is as small as possible.

Pear shaped diamond cut grade

A perfectly cut pear shaped diamond engagement ring will glimmer with unmatched sparkle and absolute symmetry. But as with any elongated shape, (yes, we’re looking at you, ovals and Marquises) keep an eye out for the “bowtie effect“. This unflattering dark stripe at the heart of longer stones, looks kind of like a bowtie and is more easily seen in diamonds of lesser cut quality.

Diamond clarity grade

Clarity? It’s your rock’s best-kept secret. Think less about ‘flawless’ and more ‘fabulous and eye-clean’. Pear cuts are like the magicians of the diamond world; they make little imperfections vanish. Aim for a grade that’s high on sparkle and easy on your wallet. Get that eye-clean clarity and watch your rock outshine the rest!

A salt and pepper pear cut engagement ring in three quarters view. It is bezel bet in platinum. — Salt and pepper diamonds are actually heavily included diamonds that make their inclusions work for them.

Pear Shaped Diamond FAQs

A three stone pear cut engagement ring — Want even more symbolism? Consider pairing your pear shaped diamond with a three stone setting that is symbolic of your relationship past, present, and future. Cue the happy tears,

What does a pear shaped engagement ring symbolize?

A pear shaped diamond symbolizes tears of joy and an emotional relationship journey, marking it as deeply meaningful jewelry. Its unique teardrop shape stands out, perfect for representing your individuality and personal style. Plus, its elegant, graceful silhouette oozes sophistication.

Why are pear shaped diamonds cheaper?

Pear shaped diamonds typically cost less than other shapes, especially rounds, the priciest in the group. They keep more rough carat weight when cut, reducing waste and production costs. Pear shaped diamonds provide affordability without skimping on size or brilliance compared to rounds.

If you’re looking for a larger size diamond with a smaller price tag, lab grown diamonds are a fantastic option. Lab pear shaped diamonds are the same as natural diamonds, just made in a laboratory. They have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties—and all of the durability and brilliance too. Best part? They’re not only half the price but super sustainable too.

A solitaire elongated pear cut diamond on a chunky yellow gold band — Despite their ‘pinkies-up’ sounding category of fancy, fancy shaped diamonds are usually more affordable than round brilliant stones because of their economical use of diamond roughage.

A bezel set champagne pear cut diamond engagement ring — Bezel settings aren’t just beautiful – they’re also practical and offer your diamond plenty of protection against chipping.

What are the cons of a pear shaped diamond engagement ring?

Besides the aforementioned bowtie effect (which is present in all of the elongated brilliant shapes), the point of a pear can be fragile and more prone to chipping, so it’s crucial to protect it with a proper setting. Look for a diamond with a good length-to-width ratio (1.45-1.75) to ensure the best shape and sparkle. And for a setting with a nice wide prong over the point, or opt for a bezel or half-bezel engagement ring setting with a bit more coverage.

Which way is a pear shaped diamond engagement ring worn?

Traditionally, pear-shaped diamonds are set vertically, or parallel to the finger, and worn with the point of the pear facing away from you, elongating your finger and creating a flattering line, but you can honestly wear it however you like. It’s yours!

An east west set pear cut engagement ring is paired with an oval eternity band and held on the tip of a finger — Whether the point of the pear faces toward, away, east, or west -you truly can’t go wrong. It’ll look beautiful regardless!

Exploring Pear Shaped Diamond Engagement Rings Under $5000

You know we’re all about the bling, but we’re also all about saving you serious dollars. Or at least getting the most out of what you got. And believe it or not, you can find stunning pear shaped engagement rings without breaking the bank. From classic solitaires to vintage-inspired designs, we have countless engagement rings in our signature collection designed to perfectly showcase the unique beauty of the pear cut diamond. And we are all about customizing. Our team of diamond and jewelry experts is here to help you find the perfect diamond or gemstone for your dream ring and customize every last detail.

The Cantilever - a solitaire pear cut engagement ring in platinum — The Cantilever | Pear-Platinum

The Cantilever - a solitaire pear cut engagement ring in yellow gold — The Cantilever | Pear-Yellow Gold

Pear Shaped Engagement Rings vs Round Engagement Rings

Round and pear shape diamonds each boast unique traits, much like us! Round diamonds, the most classic and popular shape, constitute about 75% of diamond sales. They shine exceptionally with their fire and sparkle. Yet, pear shape diamonds dazzle too, blending round cut brilliance with marquise elegance, offering a unique silhouette and style.

Round diamonds often cost more due to high demand, the cutting process’s carat loss, and needed precision. Pear shape diamonds are more wallet-friendly, keeping more of the rough diamond during cutting. Style-wise, rounds are timeless and fit any setting, yet lack distinctiveness. Pear shapes, with their elegant and unusual shape, suit those seeking a sophisticated, standout look.

Two engagement rings are compared. One is a round brilliant solitaire and the other is a pear cut solitaire. — Can’t choose between a round brilliant and pear cut diamond? We can help! Meet with our Diamond Concierge today and sample a flight of sparkling pear and round brilliant diamonds.

Finding Your Pear-fect Engagement Ring

With their unique shape, rich history, and symbolic meaning, pear shaped diamond engagement rings offer the perfect blend of elegance and individuality. Whether you’re channeling your inner Carrie Bradshaw or forging your own path, a pear shaped engagement ring might just be the perfect fit.

If you’re convinced this unique diamond shape is right for you, and you’re ready to rock one, then jump right in and check out our diamond search where you can view 360-degree images of more than 10,000 diamonds and don’t forget to zoom out (because size can be deceiving), or book a virtual or offline appointment at our New York or San Francisco studio to view certified lab-grown and natural diamonds in person.