Pear Shaped Engagement Ring: The Complete Guide
by Suzanne Sachs — 5 min read
THE BASICS--
A pear-shaped engagement ring can be an unusual and romantic choice for any bride to be with a personal flair for the unique and eye-catching. The more you know about what a pear shape diamond is, the more you appreciate the subtle meanings in the stone’s shape and the rich history of these rings. These aspects add layers of symbolism, providing a distinguished and elegant look to be cherished for many happy years.
NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- About the Pear Shape Diamond
- Symbolism
- Strong Will
- Celebrity
- Finding a Pear Shaped Ring
- Wearing a Pear-Shaped Ring
About the Pear Shape Diamond
A pear-shaped diamond or gemstone combines the best of the round brilliant cut with the tapered marquise. Pear shapes are round at one end and tapered at the other, with a total of 58 facets for the ultimate sparkle and brilliance. Also called the pear cut, teardrop, or tear-shaped cut, this cut was first designed in the mid-1400s, and even centuries later remains a popular option for elegant rings.
There is no single proportion that is ideal for pear-shaped stones, though a width-to-length ratio of 1:1.5 is considered the most brilliant and aesthetically pleasing choice. There are “fatter” and “slimmer” pear shapes available, however, and the choice of stone shape is largely a matter of personal preference. The overall curvature, however, should be aligned so that the sharp tip of the stone is in a straight line with the center of the rounded lobe, or else the shape may appear lopsided and its brilliance can be compromised.es, as they require less refined cutting and manipulation to achieve their final shape.
Pear-shaped diamonds and gemstones are available in any carat weight. Because of their elongated shape, they often look larger than round or princess-cut stones of equal carat weight, and can be a good value for a budget-conscious couple.
Symbolism
Strong Will
Because the pear shape is more unique, it often represents the strong will, empowerment, independence, and unique style of its wearer. These stones are also said to symbolize tears of joy or wedding tears, both appropriate choices for an engagement ring.
Celebrity
There is ultimate glamor in a pear-shaped stone, largely because of its most famous example – the Taylor-Burton Diamond. This extraordinary, 69-carat stone was purchased by Richard Burton for his wife Elizabeth Taylor in 1969. The stone was originally in a ring but its huge size proved awkward to wear elegantly, and it was reset into a stunning pendant that today would be worth upwards of $20 million. The Hollywood connection and silver screen glamor of the Taylor-Burton Diamond reflects beauty and grace on every pear-shaped stone, giving every bride-to-be with a pear-shaped engagement ring her own taste of celebrity stardom.
Finding a Pear Shaped Ring
While pear-shaped diamonds and gemstones have been rare in the past, they are becoming increasingly popular thanks to the engagement rings and glittering accessories of many celebrity trendsetters. Victoria Beckham, Mia Farrow, Jessica Simpson, Ariana Grande, Kaley Cuoco, and Princess Charlene of Monaco are just a few discriminating women who prefer pear-shaped diamonds, and anyone who
shares their fine tastes should be looking for their own pear-shaped engagement ring.
While some modern rings do incorporate pear-shaped diamonds and gemstones, many socially- conscious couples are turning to vintage rings as a sustainable alternative to modern jewelry practices. Pear-shaped stones are regularly seen in vintage pieces, particularly in Art Deco engagement rings where the unique pear shape is used to mimic geometric patterns, as well as in Victorian engagement rings where floral and leaf patterns are popular. Mid-century engagement rings often feature pear- shaped stones as well, and they’re popular in halo ring designs or as solitaires framed with baguettes for additional length and sparkle.
In addition to pear-shaped center stones, this diamond shape is also popular as an accent. Pear-shaped diamonds and gemstones often frame more severe shapes such as marquise or princess-cut stones, and they’re also popular side stones to oval shapes.
Wearing a Pear-Shaped Ring
Pear-shaped engagement rings can be worn in either orientation along the finger. Most wearers opt to have the pointed end of the stone facing the fingernails, which provides an elongating effect to the finger especially suited to small hands or shorter fingers. This also gives the stone its classic “tear” shape when the wearer holds up their hand to admire the ring. Yet the ring can also be worn with the rounded end toward the fingernail – it is only a matter of personal preference and how the ring most comfortably fits.
Pear-shaped engagement rings are rich with meaning and symbolism, and the more you understand about the luxurious history of this elegant shape, the more you will appreciate and enjoy your pear- shaped stone for many years to come.
Suzanne Sachs
Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you – your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.
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If you love vintage jewelry please feel free to contact Suzanne or browse our collection of vintage engagement rings.
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