What is an Ideal Size for Diamond Stud Earrings?

Diamond stud earrings may look simple, but there's more than meets the eye. That's because not every diamond earring is created equal. Several factors influence the appearance of diamond earrings and how they can bring attention to your face. While size may seem to be the most significant feature, a few other diamond characteristics can impact whether or not a pair of diamond stud earrings is perfect for you. 

Understanding Carat Weight

The most obvious measurement of all diamond stud earrings is total carat weight (CTW.) This measurement refers to the combined weight of the diamonds in both stud earrings. That means that each stud alone has a diamond that is half of the total CTW. Larger carat diamonds will have a larger CTW. 

Stud earrings will usually come in a range of carat weights between 0.25 CTW and 2.0 CTW. Depending on the cut and shape of the diamond, the size of these earrings may vary slightly. Generally, a 0.25 CTW round cut stud is about 3MM in diameter (0.11 inches.) At the top end of the scale, a 2 carat stud will measure approximately 6.5 MM in diameter (0.25 inches).

What is a Good Size for Everyday Studs?

The right size studs for you are largely based on personal preference. Your regular style and the physicality of your job can influence what size you should consider. If you work a physical job that requires wearing protective equipment on your head, you may opt for smaller diamonds. Alternatively, if you have short hair or want a more noticeable piece of daily jewelry, you may wish to purchase larger earrings. 

Jewelers have noticed that there is one diamond size that seems to be the most popular in everyday stud earrings. Many people prefer 1 carat total weight studs because they're small enough that they don't get snagged on clothing or long hair and bright enough to draw attention to your face. 

Generally speaking, 0.25 CTW to 1.0 CTW round diamond studs are best for everyday wear. They're small and light enough that they don't get in the way or put any strain on the earlobe. If you're looking for diamond stud earrings for a special occasion, consider a larger setting style for a more dramatic look. 

Other Factors That Impact Buying Diamond Stud Earrings

While carat size is often the most apparent feature of diamond earrings, it's not the only one you should consider. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond quality on criteria called the 4 Cs: carat, clarity, cut, and color. 

Diamonds that are rated high in all four of these criteria will understandably be more expensive. That is because these diamonds are more pristine. Here's how you should approach each of these criteria when purchasing a pair of diamond studs. 

Clarity

A diamond's clarity measures how many imperfections are in the stone. Diamonds with fewer imperfections are more transparent and brilliant. Clarity is a significant feature of diamonds because even a well-cut stone will struggle to reflect light effectively if it's not clear enough.

Cut Grade 

If you're spending money on diamond studs with high clarity, you want to make sure those diamonds are well-cut. A diamond's cut grade measures how a jeweler cut the stone and how that craftsmanship impacts its appearance. Cut affects the way light reflects within the diamond, giving it sparkle and brightness. When selecting a set of earrings, make sure that the cut grade is either Excellent or Very Good for the highest quality piece of jewelry.

Color Grade

The GIA grades diamonds on a scale of ten different color grades. These grades are in three separate brackets, colorless, near colorless, and faint yellow. Colorless diamonds are graded either D, E, or F, with D being the rarest and the most colorless of the group. Near colorless diamonds are graded as G, H, I, and J, with G and H being closest to colorless, and I and J being closest to faint yellow. Finally, faint yellow diamonds are graded as K, L, and M, with M being the most yellow. 

For brilliant, bright white diamonds, you should opt for colorless diamonds. However, these are very expensive and may be out of your price range. One way to save money when buying diamond studs is to purchase a lower color grade stone set in a yellow gold setting. The yellow gold will offset the yellow diamond color, giving you a set of earrings that appears brighter.

One of the best ways to get a high-quality diamond is to purchase one that is GIA Certified. This certification shows that it has been examined and graded on the four Cs and helps ensure you're getting a quality gemstone for your diamond studs. 

Diamond Shapes and Settings

Different shapes of diamonds can change how your earrings look, enhancing certain features of your face. Here is a brief explanation of some of the most common diamond cuts. 

Brilliant Cut

These round diamonds are cut with expert precision to provide many facets for optimum shine and sparkle. Brilliant cut diamonds are some of the most popular diamonds sold. 

Princess Cut Diamond

This square cut is one of the most popular diamond shapes. It can be identified by having sharp corners and is popular in solitaire settings. 

Emerald Cut

Historically, jewelers used this cut on emeralds and other colored gemstones. However, it found popularity in diamonds due to its simple, timeless look. The emerald cut is a rectangular-shaped stone with rounded corners and a stepped interior that provides a strong mirroring effect.

Setting Styles

There are two main styles of settings for gemstones: prong and bezel settings. Prong settings are probably the most common kind of gemstone settings. These involve a gem held in place by four or more prongs, giving the jewelry a 3D appearance. 

Alternatively, bezel settings involve nesting the gemstone in the jewelry so that the surface is flush with the rest of the piece. This is a modern setting, which has a more minimalist appearance. It also highlights more of the precious metal used in the jewelry piece, as it's level with the gemstone. White gold is an excellent choice for bezel settings when paired with high-quality diamonds. 

When we think of diamond studs, we typically thing of 1 large solitaire diamond. However, a setting style that is gaining popularity is illusion set diamond studs.  Illusion studs combine several smaller diamonds to create the illusion of 1 larger diamond stud. Illusion studs are much more affordable than solitaire studs of the same diameter. 

The perfect pair of diamond stud earrings is different for everyone. However, since now you know a thing or two about picking a high-quality pair of diamond earrings, you can be confident you'll find the right set next time you go shopping. The best part is, many of these features and traits apply to all diamond jewelry, including bracelets, necklaces, and engagement rings. Knowing how the experts value diamonds and how to get the most from your money can help empower you to make the best buying decisions next time you step into a jewelry store. 

At Alexis Jae, we specialize in providing fine jewelry that's perfect for your style and budget. Check our broad range of diamond to see if we have the right setting for you. If you don't find something you like, you can reach out to our expert jewelers to create a unique and perfect design just for you.