Smaller sized diamonds can be just as striking
If you have decided to invest in a modestly sized diamond, you may elect to spend a slightly larger amount on the setting in order to enhance your stone. A small, bright stone can be made to appear larger and even more beautiful than a larger, lower quality stone if it is placed in the proper setting. Once you have selected your stone and made your purchase, take the stone with you to select settings so that you can choose a setting that shows the stone off to its best advantage. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Consider a pave setting. Setting a smaller stone in the middle of a large number of tiny stones in a pave setting can make the ring look much bigger and more impressive. Pave stones add serious dimension to a ring setting and make every stone look brighter.
2. Encircle the stone rather than raising it up. A raised diamond looks smaller than one set lower and next to other stones. A large diamond will attract attention in this type of setting, but a smaller diamond can disappear. A setting that surrounds the stone will give the impression of a larger rock.
3. Add some colored stones of comparable size. Colored stones add sparkle without making the eye compare them directly to the diamond. For example, a diamond flanked by two rubies of equal size will give the impression of a larger ring in general.
4. Avoid bezels unless you have a fancy-shaped diamond. Because bezels are so solid, they tend to diminish the size of a diamond. However, if you have opted for a fancy shape like a heart or a star, the bezel will help define the diamond's shape rather than minimize it.
5. Choose a setting that can be added to later. If you opt for a small stone and a discreet setting, then pick a linear setting that will allow you to purchase anniversary presents or additional rings to complement the ring later. Many couples add eternity bands to their ring sets on anniversaries or other significant dates, which allows them to add sparkle to their set without giving up the original stone and its emotional attachment.
