When it comes to diamonds, bigger isn’t always better.

A diamond’s carat size is certainly an important aspect to consider when shopping for diamonds – after all, carat size is part of the 4 Cs. But it isn’t necessarily the most important feature. If you’re thinking of buying a diamond for yourself or a loved one and you’re feeling pressured into choosing a large one, here are 5 reasons why bigger isn’t always better.

Bigger diamonds are at a greater risk of damage

Bigger diamonds tend to stick up several millimetres above the band of the ring, so they stick out more on your finger too. This can be a problem for the everyday-wear rings, as they are at a much greater risk of becoming chipped or fractured. No matter the size of diamond, hardness, toughness and stability always matter, but even more so for the bigger gems. If you are shopping for a diamond ring, consider how often you or the wearer is going to wear it. 

Smaller diamonds can often be more versatile than bigger ones

Most people prefer to have pieces they don’t need to take on and off and can wear no matter the activity they are doing. Pieces like such are more likely to be smaller diamonds. You can wear your diamond ring to work, whilst out shopping, dropping the kids at school or out for a meal.

We all have different hand sizes

A big diamond isn’t right for everyone due to the simple fact that we all have different hand sizes. Some of us have petite, delicate hands, so a huge diamond ring can look a little out of place and ‘clunky’. It’s the same for diamond earrings. Large diamond earrings on small ear lobes can only make the lobes droop and become saggy over time. But if you do have petite hands and like the chunkiness of a larger diamond ring, by all means, treat yourself.

Clarity matters

For some people, clarity is far more important than carat size. The clarity of a diamond refers to small imperfections on the surface and internally. These are known as blemishes and inclusions. It’s worth noting that imperfections on larger diamonds are more visible than on smaller ones. This means that yellowish tints, natural flaws, or nonsymmetric cuts will be more noticeable. Size doesn’t always determine value, so you could get a smaller stone that is more valuable due to the clarity, cut etc than a large stone that is poor quality.

Bigger diamonds can be very costly

It’s easy enough to want to splash out on expensive jewellery, which is perfectly fine if you have the money to do so. However, don’t feel pressured into buying a larger diamond that’s over your budget. The truth is, there is no need to purchase over expensive jewellery. There are lots of smaller and cheaper diamonds that are equally as beautiful as larger ones. With that being said, smaller diamonds can still be very expensive, so it’s really about finding the perfect piece that’s within your budget.

Investing in a diamond is a big decision, whether it be a diamond ring, necklace or earrings, so we always try to give the best advice as we can.

Are you looking for a diamond for yourself or a loved one? You can shop our online selection here.