Pear Shape Diamonds

• Round
• Princess
• Cushion
• Oval
• Pear
• Emerald
• Heart
• Radiant
• Asscher
• Marquise
• Trilliant

Every diamond has its own story, and every lady her own style.

At this point it should be noted that the shape of a diamond can also be referred to as its “cut”, like a round or princess cut. However, this should not be confused with the more commonly used term of diamond cut, which describes how well the diamond has been polished from the raw material (see section on diamond cut).

At Seventy Seven Diamonds we cater to the detailed wishes of every customer and want to ensure that they are well-informed about every diamond shape available. Our selection of beautiful shapes is accompanied by detailed information, images and recommendations on the uniqueness, the history and background, and the ideal ratio of every cut.

Pear Shape Diamonds

1. The Basics | 2. Features | 3. Expert Advice | 4. History

1. The Basics

Also referred to as: PENDELOQUE or TEARDROP CUT

2. Features

The pear shape is a unique and hybrid diamond cut combining the brilliance and design style of both the Round Brilliant and the Marquise that results in a shape with a single point and rounded end.

The typical ratio is between 1.50 and 1.70 and the stone is usually comprised of 58 facets, although the number of pavilion facets may range from 4 to 8. Additionally, pear shapes are sometimes cut with a "French tip," which replaces the large bezel facet at the point with star and upper girdle facets. French tips are also used in the Heart and Marquise shapes. Pear-shaped diamonds may vary in appearance with some having what is referred to as “high shoulders”, making the stone appear more angular.

The pear shape can suffer from a so-called “bow-tie effect” when light passing through the diamond casts a shadow across the central facets of the stone. This shadow can be reduced by altering the depth of the pavilion, and adjusting the angles of the table and facets to better diffuse light in the central area. This effect also occurs in the Heart, Marquise and Oval shapes.

3. Expert Advice

“The optimal pear shape is one with a polished girdle and a rounded base, or “even shoulders”. However, much like the oval cut, a more attenuated pear shape may elongate the fingers, so it is important to reconcile these two qualities. Additionally, colour is often more visible towards the tip of the pear shape, so to ensure an even tone throughout the stone it is advisable to opt for colours H and above.”

4. History & Background

The first pear-shaped diamond was created in the 1400s by Flemish cutter Lodewyk van Berquem of Bruges, inventor of the diamond-polishing wheel, or scaif.

This invention enabled him to polish all the facets of the diamond to optimize light reflection within it. It was from this watershed moment onwards that diamonds began to be used in jewellery.

Van Berquem also pioneered the now commonplace symmetrical arrangement of facets on a stone, this in turn led him to fashion the pear-shaped "Pendeloque" or "Briolette" cut.

Where next?

To view pear shape diamonds offered by Seventy Seven Diamonds, please click here.
To customise your pear shape engagement ring, please click here.
If you would like to read more about diamond education, please click here.