- Introduction
- History of the Pear Cut Diamond
- Understanding the Pear Cut Diamond
- Pros and Cons of Pear Cut Diamond
- The 4Cs of Pear Cut Diamonds
- Popular Settings for Pear Cut Diamonds
- Popular Pear Diamond Metal Choices
- Popular Pear Diamond Band Styles
- Pear Cut Diamond Orientation
- Pear Cut Diamonds vs Other Shapes
- Price and Value
- Care and Maintenance
- Pear Cut Diamonds in Pop Culture
- Final Buying Tips
Introduction
The pear cut diamond, also known as the teardrop diamond, is one of the most romantic and distinctive shapes in fine jewelry. Its graceful silhouette combines the brilliance of a round cut with the elongation of a marquise, resulting in a diamond that’s both timeless and eye-catching.
Loved for its versatility and flattering shape, the pear cut diamond has become a favorite for engagement rings, earrings, and pendants. Its unique design gives the illusion of longer, slender fingers and offers remarkable sparkle from every angle.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about pear cut diamonds — from their history and anatomy to buying tips, price insights, and care advice.
History of the Pear Cut Diamond
The pear cut diamond traces its roots back to 1458, when Flemish cutter Lodewyk van Bercken invented the scaif, a polishing wheel that revolutionized diamond cutting. This innovation allowed cutters to create symmetrical facets that better reflected light, leading van Bercken to design the very first pear-shaped diamond.
Over the centuries, the pear cut evolved into the refined, brilliant style we see today — featuring 58 facets optimized for light performance. Its teardrop silhouette became a symbol of emotion and sophistication, representing both joy and tears of love.
Today, the pear cut diamond remains a favorite among designers and collectors for its dramatic shape and exceptional sparkle.
Understanding the Pear Cut Diamond
A pear cut diamond features a rounded end on one side and a tapered point on the other, blending the brilliance of a round cut with the elegance of a marquise.
Key Features
- Facets: Typically 58, designed for maximum light return.
- Length-to-Width Ratio: Ideal between 1.45–1.60, creating a balanced, elegant shape.
- Symmetry: The two sides should mirror each other perfectly.
- Point Orientation: Usually faces outward on rings, elongating the hand.
The pear cut’s brilliance, when well-proportioned, rivals that of a round brilliant diamond, offering both sparkle and individuality.
Pros and Cons of Pear Cut Diamonds
- Unique Shape: A rare blend of classic and contemporary beauty.
- Brilliant Sparkle: Reflects light with exceptional fire.
- Elongating Effect: Makes fingers appear longer and slimmer.
- Versatility: Stunning in solitaires, halos, or east-west settings.
- Budget-Friendly: Typically less expensive per carat than round diamonds.
- Chipping Risk: The pointed tip is delicate and must be protected by a prong.
- Visible Bow-Tie Effect: Poorly cut stones can show a dark shadow across the center.
- Symmetry Sensitivity: Uneven sides can affect balance and beauty.
The 4Cs of Pear Cut Diamonds
1. Cut
The cut is the most critical factor for pear diamonds. A well-cut pear should have a symmetrical outline, balanced proportions, and minimal bow-tie effect.
- Excellent/Ideal Cut: Maximizes sparkle and brilliance.
- Very Good Cut: Slight imperfections, still visually brilliant.
- Good Cut: May show more shadow or uneven light reflection.
2. Color
Because of their open facets, pear diamonds may show color more easily than round cuts.
- D–F: Colorless, premium brilliance.
- G–H: Near colorless, best balance of value and beauty.
- I–J: Slight warmth, ideal for yellow or rose gold settings.
3. Clarity
Pear cuts can hide small inclusions near the rounded end but are more revealing near the point.
- VS1–VS2: Excellent clarity and eye-clean appearance.
- SI1–SI2: Good budget options if inclusions are near edges.
- VVS–IF: Perfect clarity, but not always necessary visually.
4. Carat Weight
The elongated design of pear diamonds often makes them look larger than their actual carat weight.
For example, a 1.00ct pear cut can appear larger than a 1.00ct round cut. Choosing a 0.90ct pear offers a similar visual size with notable savings.
Popular Settings for Pear Cut Diamonds
Pear cut diamonds can be styled in various settings that enhance their unique teardrop shape and brilliance. A solitaire rings offers a classic, elegant look that keeps the focus on the diamond itself. A halo rings surrounds the center stone with smaller diamonds, adding extra sparkle and a larger appearance. The three-stone rings combines the pear diamond with two side stones, creating a balanced and meaningful design. For a modern touch, a bezel rings encases the diamond in metal, providing both protection and a sleek, contemporary appeal.
Popular Pear Diamond Metal Choices
Pear cut diamonds pair beautifully with a range of metal choices that enhance their distinctive shape and brilliance. White gold engagement rings offer a clean, modern look that accentuates the diamond’s sparkle and elongated form. Yellow gold engagement rings add warmth and timeless charm, perfect for a classic, romantic style. Rose gold engagement rings bring a soft, feminine glow that complements the pear’s graceful curves. Black gold engagement rings create a striking, modern contrast for a bold and artistic statement. For unmatched luxury and strength,platinum engagement rings provide a bright, enduring setting that perfectly highlights the pear diamond’s elegance.
Popular Pear Diamond Band Styles
Pear cut diamonds pair beautifully with a variety of band styles that enhance their unique shape and brilliance. Thin bands create an elegant, elongated look that draws attention to the diamond’s graceful teardrop silhouette. Thicker bands offer a bold, contemporary feel with added strength and presence. Diamond wedding bands amplify the sparkle, adding extra brilliance that complements the pear’s shimmering facets. For timeless simplicity, classic wedding bands provide a refined balance that highlights the pear diamond’s romantic and distinctive charm.
Pear Cut Diamond Orientation
Pear diamonds can be worn point-up or point-down, depending on the jewelry design.
- Engagement Rings: Point usually faces outward toward the fingertip.
- Necklaces & Pendants: Point typically faces down, creating a teardrop effect.
Pear Cut Diamonds vs Other Shapes
| Feature | Pear Cut | Round Cut | Oval Cut | Marquise Cut |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shape | Teardrop | Circular | Elongated Oval | Football-shaped |
| Sparkle | Excellent | Maximum | Very Good | Good |
| Uniqueness | High | Common | Medium | High |
| Elongation | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Why choose pear? It offers individuality, elegance, and stunning brilliance at a better value than a round cut.
Price and Value
Pear cut diamonds are generally 10–30% less expensive per carat than round diamonds because they waste less rough material during cutting.
Smart Buying Tips
- Choose slightly below popular weights (0.90ct instead of 1.00ct).
- Prioritize cut and symmetry over carat size.
- Opt for G–H color and VS2 clarity for best value.
Care and Maintenance
With proper care, pear cut diamonds maintain their brilliance for generations.
- Store separately to avoid scratching.
- Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush for cleaning.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners unless advised.
- Check prongs regularly to ensure the tip is secure.
Pear Cut Diamonds in Pop Culture
From Victoria Beckham to Cardi B and Margot Robbie, celebrities have embraced pear cut diamonds for their dramatic flair and symbolism. Their presence in red-carpet moments keeps the shape iconic and desirable for modern brides.
Final Buying Tips
- Always buy GIA- or AGS-certified diamonds.
- Inspect the diamond in person or request a 360° video.
- Focus on cut, symmetry, and polish for top brilliance.
- Protect the point with a V-shaped prong or bezel setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a pear cut diamond?
A pear cut diamond, also called a teardrop diamond, combines the brilliance of a round cut with the elongation of a marquise. It features a rounded end and a pointed tip, giving it a graceful and unique look.
2. Are pear cut diamonds popular for engagement rings?
Yes, pear cut diamonds are increasingly popular for engagement rings because of their romantic shape and flattering elongation on the finger. They’re perfect for both classic and modern ring designs.
3. What’s the best ratio for a pear cut diamond?
The ideal length-to-width ratio for a pear cut diamond is between 1.45 and 1.60. Ratios below 1.40 appear wider, while higher ratios look longer and slimmer.
4. How can I avoid the “bow-tie effect” in pear diamonds?
Choose a diamond with excellent symmetry and a well-proportioned cut. Viewing the stone in motion helps ensure the bow-tie shadow is minimal or evenly distributed.
5. What’s the best setting for a pear cut engagement ring?
A V-prong or bezel setting protects the pointed tip and enhances durability. Halos, solitaires, and three-stone settings are also popular choices.
6. Do pear cut diamonds look bigger than round ones?
Yes. Because of their elongated shape, pear diamonds often appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight.
7. What clarity and color are best for pear cut diamonds?
For the best balance of beauty and value, go for VS2 clarity and G–H color. Higher grades offer premium sparkle, but pear cuts hide minor inclusions well.
8. Are pear cut diamonds cheaper than round diamonds?
Typically, yes. Pear cut diamonds are about 10–30% less expensive than round cuts because they waste less rough material during cutting.
9. Which way should a pear diamond point?
In rings, the point usually faces outward toward the fingertip. For pendants, it typically points downward to create a teardrop effect.
10. How should I care for a pear cut diamond?
Clean regularly with mild soap and warm water, and check prongs every few months. The pointed tip should always be protected to avoid chipping.