Engagement Rings / Diamond Shapes
Pear Shaped Engagement Rings: Teardrop Diamond Buying Guide
Published October 8, 2026
Pear shaped engagement rings, also called teardrop rings, combine a rounded end and a single point into one graceful shape. They feel romantic and a little unexpected, and like other elongated cuts they make the diamond look larger and the finger look slimmer.
Below you will find everything you need to choose a beautiful pear diamond. For a comparison of all shapes, see engagement ring shapes.
What is a pear shaped diamond?
A pear diamond is a modified brilliant cut that blends a round brilliant and a marquise: one end is rounded and the other tapers to a point. It typically has around 56 to 58 facets, giving strong sparkle.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Looks larger than a round of the same carat weight | The point is vulnerable without a V-prong |
| Elongates and flatters the finger | Symmetry varies widely |
| Unique, romantic shape | Most pears show some bow-tie |
| Usually lower price per carat than round | Color can show at the point |
Ideal length-to-width ratio
- 1.45 to 1.55: a fuller, classic teardrop.
- 1.55 to 1.75: a slimmer, more elongated pear.
Choose based on your finger shape and taste: shorter fingers often suit slightly longer pears.
Check symmetry and shoulders
A well-cut pear has a rounded head that forms a smooth semicircle, shoulders that curve evenly on both sides, and a point that lines up with the center of the rounded end. Avoid stones with flat, high or uneven shoulders, which look lopsided.
The bow-tie effect
Like ovals and marquises, pears often show a darker bow-tie across the center. Choose a stone where it is faint and balanced; videos are the best way to judge.
Clarity and color
- Clarity: SI1 to VS2 stones are often eye-clean. Avoid inclusions near the point.
- Color: color can gather at the tip. G to H suits white metals; I to J often looks white in yellow gold.
Which way should a pear engagement ring point?
Traditionally, the point faces toward the fingertips, which elongates the hand. Some people prefer the point toward the wrist for a softer look. There is no rule; wear it the way you love.
Best settings for pear engagement rings
- Solitaire with a V-prong at the point: classic and protective. See solitaire engagement rings.
- Halo: a pear-shaped halo boosts size and sparkle. See halo engagement rings.
- Three stone: a round or oval center flanked by pear side stones is another popular way to use the shape. See three stone engagement rings.
- Toi et moi: two stones, such as a pear and an oval, set side by side.
- Bezel: the most protective option. See bezel engagement rings.
Pear vs oval vs marquise
All three are elongated brilliant cuts. Ovals are soft and symmetrical, marquise diamonds are bold with two points, and pears sit in between with one point and one rounded end. Compare them in oval engagement rings and marquise engagement rings.
Buying tips
- Prioritize symmetry and a pleasing outline.
- Choose a faint bow-tie over a slightly higher clarity grade.
- Make sure the point is protected by a V-prong or bezel.
- Get a grading report from an independent lab.
- Set a budget first: how much to spend on an engagement ring.
Frequently asked questions
Do pear shaped diamonds look bigger?
Yes. Their elongated shape gives a larger face-up area than a round diamond of the same carat weight.
What is a teardrop engagement ring?
It is another name for a pear shaped engagement ring, named for the diamond's teardrop outline.
Are pear shaped engagement rings durable?
Diamonds are very hard, but the point can chip if hit. A V-prong or bezel at the tip makes a pear ring suitable for daily wear.
What is the best ratio for a pear diamond?
Most buyers prefer between 1.50 and 1.75, but the right ratio depends on your taste and hand shape.
Engagement Photo Guide Team
Editorial Team
The Engagement Photo Guide team writes practical guides on engagement rings, proposal ideas and engagement photos to help couples plan every step with confidence.