What Makes an Engagement Ring Look Bigger? Smart Design Secrets You’ll Love

What Makes an Engagement Ring Look Bigger? Smart Design Secrets You’ll Love

Let’s be honest—when it comes to engagement rings, size does matter (at least visually). But here’s the good news: you don’t have to spend more to get a ring that turns heads.

At Diamond Lab, we work with couples every day who want their ring to look luxurious—without maxing out their budget on a higher-carat stone. And the truth is, how big your ring looks depends more on design than carat weight.

Here’s a closer look at what really makes an engagement ring appear larger—and how to choose smartly without compromise.

1. Choose a Slim Band (It Makes the Stone Pop)

One of the easiest tricks in the book: opt for a slim, delicate band.

When the band is narrow, your centre stone instantly looks more prominent by contrast. This is especially effective for round, oval, and cushion cuts, which already have generous surface areas.

Try:
Solitaire Collection – minimalist settings naturally make stones appear larger.

2. Go for Elongated Stone Shapes

Some cuts simply give you more face-up area—which means more visual impact.

Best stone shapes for a bigger look:

• Oval: Spreads out the most surface area for its carat weight. Sleek, elegant, and flattering.

• Pear: Unique teardrop shape draws the eye and gives the illusion of length.

• Marquise: Known for its regal feel and widest face-up appearance of all.

See the difference:
Oval Collection
Pear Collection
Marquise Collection

3. Opt for a Hidden Halo or Pavé Setting

A full halo isn’t your only option anymore.

Hidden halos tuck tiny diamonds beneath the main stone, creating subtle sparkle that lifts the centre. Pavé bands line the shoulders with stones, enhancing the overall dazzle without drawing attention away from the centrepiece.

These details don’t just add shine—they add visual weight.

Explore styles:
Hidden Halo Collection
Pavé Collection

4. Use Claw Prongs Instead of Traditional Settings

Prongs do more than hold your stone in place—they affect how visible the stone is.

Claw prongs (our preferred style at Diamond Lab) expose more of the diamond or moissanite, letting in more light and showcasing the full outline of the shape. The result? More sparkle, more visibility, more perceived size.

Outdated thick prongs can make even a larger stone feel hidden.

5. Choose Bright White Metals (or Two-Tone for Contrast)

The metal you choose can frame your stone for maximum impact.

White gold or platinum blends seamlessly with colourless stones, giving the illusion of an extended stone area. If you want contrast, two-tone settings can use yellow or rose gold bands to make the centre appear whiter and brighter by comparison.

Browse:
Two-Tone Engagement Ring Collection

6. Consider a Cathedral or Elevated Setting

Raising your stone above the band with a cathedral setting gives height, light entry, and the illusion of grandeur.

This elevation draws the eye upward and makes the stone feel larger, especially when viewed from the side. It’s a great option for those who love a dramatic profile without needing a massive carat weight.

Explore heighted elegance:
Cathedral Collection

7. Say Yes to Moissanite (More Sparkle for Less)

If your goal is maximum visual impact, moissanite delivers unmatched fire and brilliance—even at smaller sizes.

Because of its unique refractive index, moissanite often appears larger than a diamond of the same size. You’ll get more sparkle per millimetre—at a more accessible price point.

Not sure which to pick? Compare both in our guide:
Moissanite vs Lab Diamond: Which Should You Choose?

8. Avoid Thick Bezels or Wide Bands

While modern bezel settings can be elegant, too much metal around the stone can visually shrink it.

Likewise, a thick band (especially in men’s-inspired styles) may overpower a delicate centre. Instead, opt for balance—let the stone do the talking.

If you love the bezel look, consider a half-bezel which offers security and visibility.

Half-Bezel Collection

Final Thought: Bigger Isn’t Always Better—But Looking Bigger Can Be

Remember, your engagement ring should suit your lifestyle, personal taste, and budget. But with thoughtful design and clever choices, you can get a ring that looks significantly more impressive—without increasing carat size or cost.

At Diamond Lab, we help you bring out the best in your chosen stone—whether it’s 1 carat or 3.

Need help choosing the perfect design?
Book a complimentary one-on-one with our team:
Virtual Consultation

FAQ: Making Your Ring Look Bigger

Q: Will a halo always make a ring look larger?
A: Most of the time, yes—but hidden halos and pavé bands can also create that effect without overwhelming the design.

Q: What’s the best shape if I want a bigger-looking stone?
A: Oval, pear, and marquise offer the most face-up surface area per carat.

Q: Does band width really matter?
A: Absolutely. A thinner band can dramatically increase the visual size of your centre stone.

Q: Can you design something that looks like 2 carats but costs less?
A: Yes! Many of our clients go for 1.5ct stones in designs that enhance size perception through setting style and band design.

Q: What if I still can’t decide?
A: That’s what we’re here for. Book a free consult and let us show you visual comparisons tailored to your style.