Stone Size: Finding the Balance Between Beauty and Durability
When choosing a stone for an engagement ring or meaningful piece, one of the first questions that often comes up is: What size should it be? It’s a natural consideration, carat weight affects not just the look of a piece, but how it feels, how it wears, and what it expresses.
I tend to work with stones that sit in a beautiful balance, typically from 0.80 carats up to around 2 carats. This range feels generous and expressive, while still being practical for everyday wear. It allows the stone to have presence without overpowering the design or becoming uncomfortable for daily life.
Carat Isn’t Everything
It’s worth noting that carat refers to weight, not size, so two stones with the same carat weight may look slightly different depending on their cut, shape, and depth. A well-cut 0.90ct oval, for example, may appear larger than a 1ct round because of how the shape distributes its surface area.
That’s why I always guide clients to look beyond the number. The quality of the stone, how it’s cut, and how it’s set within the band all play a big part in how the final piece feels and looks.
Design Over Display
There’s sometimes a perception that “bigger is better,” but I believe in something more grounded: choosing a stone that suits your style, your story, and your day-to-day life. Larger stones can be stunning, but they may not always be the most wearable especially for hands that are busy, creative, or always in motion.
A 1.2ct sapphire, diamond or ocean diamond can be the perfect size, visually striking, yet beautifully balanced. In fact, many of the designs I create begin not with a set carat weight, but with a particular feeling or tone the wearer wants to capture. That’s where we find the sweet spot: something personal, practical, and lasting.
Quality, Meaning, and Longevity
Whether you choose a 0.90ct hand-cut Australian sapphire or a 1.5ct Ocean Diamond, we’ll focus together on what matters most: quality, craftsmanship, and connection to the piece. A slightly smaller, higher-quality stone will always hold more meaning and beauty than something oversized but lifeless.
It’s about creating jewellery that fits your lifestyle and holds its shape, story, and significance over time.
Want to See Sizes in Person?
If you’re curious how different carat sizes might look or feel on your hand, you’re always welcome to visit my studio in Cornwall. We can look at stones together, try on sample pieces, and explore which carat range feels right for you.
The right size isn’t about the number. It’s about how the piece fits into your life and how it makes you feel when you wear it.
Naomi x
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