Easy 30-Day Returns & Financing

Free U.S. Shipping & 90-Day Resizing

Every Purchase Funds our Non-Profit

Choosing the Perfect Diamond Carat Size for Your Engagement Ring

Choosing the Perfect Diamond Carat Size for Your Engagement Ring

Choosing the Perfect Diamond Carat Size for Your Engagement Ring

Updated June 2021

 

Are you currently in the process of selecting the perfect engagement ring for your significant other and find yourself wondering, "What is the optimal diamond size?"

When contemplating the ideal diamond size, it's important to note that carat weight alone does not necessarily reflect the depth of your affection for your partner or their love for you. While larger stones may seem appealing, it's essential to keep in mind that the perfect size is subjective and influenced by personal preferences, body type, hand proportions, preferred setting, and budget considerations. Determining the most suitable diamond size requires a thoughtful assessment of these factors, rather than simply opting for the largest carat available.

 

a chart showing diamond carat sizes on hand and comparing different shapes and sizes


Tip #1: Standard & Average Sizes

 

Depending on where you live the average engagement ring size will vary. The 1.0 carat center stone used to be the most desired size chosen for engagement rings, however, more recently we are seeing this shift towards a slightly larger stone, with couples choosing diamonds averaging 1.25 to 1.50 carats.

 

Tip #2: Consider Their Lifestyle

 

Does your partner have an active lifestyle or career? For example, someone who works with their hands (like a teacher or stay at home mom) or enjoys active hobbies (like gardening or the gym) may be better suited for a smaller center stone.

 

Does your partner wear any other jewelry? If they do then they might prefer a larger center stone, however, if they don’t then something more understated may match their personal style better.

 

Tip #3: Think About Your Budget

 

Does your partner like diamonds? Many eco-conscious consumers might like the look of a diamond but not the cost or ethical and environmental abuses that come with them. Lab grown diamonds are the perfect answer. 100% identical to earth mined diamonds, lab grown diamonds are truly conflict free and are up to 40% less than traditional diamonds. Additional options include our Diamond Hybrid and lab grown gemstones.

 

One of the great things about the affordability of MiaDonna’s lab-created diamonds and gemstones is that you likely won’t be stuck compromising your preferred stone size because of budget restraints.

 


Our Sizing Recommendations

 

If your hands are smaller than a 6.5 ring size you might want to consider a 1.0 carat or a stone that is under 1.50 carats. However, if your hands are larger than a 6.5 ring size you can go with something larger, like a 1.50-2.0 carat.

 

Keep in mind that the smaller the finger, the larger the diamond will appear. A 1.5-carat diamond solitaire looks much larger on a size 4 finger than a size 8. Now that you know what to look for, you are ready to find the perfect engagement ring and center stone.

 

AUTHORS & EXPERTS

MiaDonna Team

MiaDonna is the world’s first retailer exclusively selling Lab-Grown Diamonds and Gemstones, created in 2005 by a mother determined to free families from a lifetime of poverty and mining. We specialize in designer-style fine jewelry that is beautiful, sustainable, and affordable. We are B-Corp certified, environmentally responsible, and donate 10% of profits to support communities negatively impacted by diamond and gold mining. MiaDonna is headquartered in Portland, Oregon and ships to all 50 states plus more than 30 countries internationally.