A pear, or teardrop, diamond joins the brilliance of a round to a single tapered point. The result draws the eye along its length, lengthening the finger and often reading slightly larger per carat than a comparable round. It has real character, and it is a shape we enjoy designing and hand-finishing at our own bench in London, with casting and setting carried out by trusted specialist workshops.
Why a pear suits the hand
The pear is a hybrid: rounded at one end, drawn to a fine point at the other. That length flatters the finger, lending a slender line a symmetrical shape cannot. Because much of the weight sits across the face of the stone, a pear can look generous for its carat weight, which gives you room to balance size against budget.
Convention is to wear the point toward the nail, though some prefer it toward the knuckle. There is no rule, only preference, and it is worth trying both before you commit.
Symmetry and the bow-tie
Two things separate a fine pear from an ordinary one. The first is symmetry: the point should sit precisely in line with the rounded end, with both shoulders mirroring each other. A point that pulls off-centre is immediately visible once you know to look. The second is the bow-tie, a darker band that can run across the centre of any elongated cut.
A well-cut pear keeps the bow-tie to a faint shadow rather than a heavy mark. We source certified stones to your brief and share full grading and detail so you can choose with confidence before settling on any individual stone. You can read more in our guide to diamond cut, one of the 4Cs that shapes how a pear performs.
Settings that flatter the shape
The pear takes well to several classic treatments, and the right choice depends on how much presence you want and how the ring will be worn.
- A solitaire lets the outline speak for itself and keeps the point clearly defined.
- A halo of smaller stones frames the teardrop and adds apparent size.
- Diamond-set shoulders carry brilliance down the band and lead the eye toward the centre stone.
Whichever direction you favour, every piece is designed and hand-finished at our own bench, with casting and setting carried out by trusted specialist workshops. Settings start from £800 and a complete bespoke ring from £1,500, in platinum or 18ct gold, with natural or laboratory-grown diamonds, each independently graded.
Protecting the point
The point is the most exposed part of a pear and the part most worth protecting. A v-claw cradles the tip on both sides, guarding it against knocks and holding it securely without crowding the stone. We fit one as standard on pear settings, and it remains one of the simplest ways to keep a teardrop looking precise for years.
Common questions
Does a pear shape look bigger than a round diamond?
Often, yes. A pear spreads its weight across a longer face, so for the same carat it can present a larger surface and a longer line on the finger. The exact difference depends on the cut and proportions of the individual stone.
Which way should the point face?
Most wearers point the stone toward the nail, which lengthens the finger. Others prefer it toward the knuckle. Both are correct, and you are welcome to try each orientation at your appointment before deciding.
Can I choose a lab-grown diamond for a pear ring?
Yes. We offer both laboratory-grown and natural diamonds in pear cut, each independently graded, so you can weigh size, origin and budget against one another with clear information.
To explore pear-shaped stones sourced to your brief and discuss proportions, settings and metal, please book a consultation at our private studio near Farringdon, or read more about our bespoke engagement rings.
