There’s something almost poetic about the moment you first see a pear-shaped diamond catch the light. It’s elegant without trying too hard, and dramatic without being loud — that rare blend of sophistication and personality that never really goes out of style.
I’ve always thought that engagement rings are less about trends and more about stories. Every cut, every shimmer says something about the person wearing it. And lately, I’ve noticed more and more Australians leaning toward the pear diamond engagement ring — a choice that feels both timeless and quietly rebellious.
You might not know this, but the pear cut actually dates back to the 1400s. It was invented by a Flemish cutter named Lodewyk van Berquem, who also pioneered the concept of diamond symmetry. Centuries later, the shape still feels fresh. Maybe it’s the teardrop silhouette — soft and romantic on one end, sharp and bold on the other — a visual metaphor for love itself: emotional yet resilient.
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Why the Pear Cut Is Having a Moment
If you’ve scrolled through Instagram or wandered past a boutique jeweller in Sydney or Melbourne recently, you’ve probably noticed it too — pear-shaped diamonds are everywhere.
Part of the appeal, I think, is how versatile they are. The elongated shape flatters most hands, making fingers appear slimmer and more graceful. But it’s also a bit unexpected. Compared to the round brilliant or the princess cut, the pear shape has an artistic flair — a hint of individuality that says, “I didn’t just pick what everyone else picked.”
From a design perspective, it’s a dream cut to work with. The shape can be set vertically for that classic teardrop look, or horizontally (“east-west”) for a more contemporary edge. You’ll often see them in minimalist solitaires, surrounded by delicate halos, or nestled between tapered side stones for extra sparkle.
What surprises many people, though, is how different the same shape can look depending on the ratio and setting. Some pears are soft and plump, others long and slender. The personality shifts with every millimetre.
The Rise of Lab Diamonds — And Why It Matters
Here’s the part that might change how you think about diamonds altogether.
For decades, natural diamonds have carried both romance and controversy. But in the last few years, a quieter revolution has been unfolding in the jewellery world: lab-grown diamonds.
Now, before you picture something synthetic or second-rate, it’s worth understanding what they really are. Lab diamonds aren’t imitations — they’re real diamonds, identical in chemical composition and brilliance to mined ones. The only difference is where they come from: a controlled lab rather than deep underground.
Honestly, I was sceptical at first. It sounded too futuristic, too clean-cut. But after speaking with jewellers, gemologists, and couples choosing them, I realised something important — lab diamonds are redefining what luxury means. They’re conflict-free, sustainable, and often more affordable, allowing people to invest in size and quality without compromising their ethics.
And when you see one in a pear cut, that combination of innovation and artistry just makes sense. It’s the old world meeting the new — and it’s stunning.
If you’re curious, you can explore beautifully crafted pear diamond engagement rings made with lab diamonds that showcase exactly how graceful this shape can be when done right. The craftsmanship speaks for itself, and the sparkle? Well, you’ll see.
The Emotional Geometry of the Pear Shape
Let’s get sentimental for a moment — because, really, engagement rings are emotional objects.
There’s something about the asymmetric shape of the pear that feels deeply personal. When worn with the tip pointing up, it symbolises strength and ambition; pointed down, it suggests tenderness and love. Some even say it represents tears of joy, which makes sense when you think about what an engagement truly celebrates.
A friend of mine, a Melbourne-based jewellery designer, once said, “A pear diamond isn’t just pretty — it has character. It’s like handwriting; no two pears ever look quite the same.” And she’s right. Every cut has its quirks, its subtle imperfections that make it feel real, human, alive.
That’s what I love most about them. A perfectly symmetrical round diamond can feel formal, almost distant. But a pear — a pear has personality.
Design Ideas Worth Falling For
If you’re thinking of going down the pear route (pun intended), there are a few design directions worth exploring:
1. The Solo Statement
A single pear diamond on a fine band — it’s modern, minimal, and lets the stone speak for itself. This look has been gaining traction with brides who prefer understated elegance over extravagance.
2. The Vintage Halo
Think Art Deco glamour, but softer. Surrounding a pear diamond with a halo of smaller stones enhances its brilliance and brings a romantic glow that flatters every angle.
3. East-West Setting
It’s a subtle twist, but flipping the pear horizontally gives the ring a completely different attitude — chic, contemporary, and a bit fashion-forward.
4. Mixed Metals and Hidden Halos
Combining white gold with rose or yellow gold adds depth and contrast. And if you love a little secret sparkle, a hidden halo beneath the setting catches light beautifully without stealing the show.
5. Pear with a Pavé Band
A pavé band adds a trail of light that complements the main stone without overwhelming it — perfect for those who want a little extra shimmer.
What’s beautiful about all of these is that the pear cut adapts effortlessly. Whether you’re after something bold and sculptural or soft and vintage, it just works.
How to Choose the Perfect Pear Diamond
Now, not all pear diamonds are created equal. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up from jewellers over the years:
Length-to-Width Ratio:
This determines how “slim” or “wide” the pear looks. A ratio between 1.45 and 1.75 is often considered the sweet spot, but it really depends on your personal taste.
Symmetry:
The two sides of the pear should mirror each other. Even a slight imbalance can affect how the diamond reflects light.
Bow-Tie Effect:
Many pear and oval cuts show a subtle shadow across the centre (the “bow tie”). A well-cut diamond minimises this without losing depth.
Setting Protection:
Because of its pointed tip, the pear cut can be more delicate than round stones. A good setting will protect that tip with a prong or bezel for durability.
It’s worth working with a jeweller who understands the nuances of this cut — someone who can guide you beyond the certificate and help you find a stone that truly feels like “you.”
Beyond the Ring: The Meaning Behind the Choice
Jewellery trends come and go, but the pear diamond endures for a reason. It’s expressive. It’s personal. It says you appreciate tradition but aren’t afraid to do things your own way.
In a world where everything can feel mass-produced, that individuality matters. Choosing a pear-shaped engagement ring — especially one made with lab diamonds — feels like a conscious, meaningful act. It’s beauty with integrity, design with depth.
And maybe that’s why so many modern couples are embracing them. They’re not just buying a symbol of love; they’re choosing what kind of story they want their love to tell.
A Few Final Thoughts
I’ll be honest — before writing this piece, I hadn’t given the pear shape much thought. I admired it from afar, sure, but I didn’t fully understand its quiet power. Now, I see it differently.
There’s a rare balance in its form — half tradition, half rebellion. It’s not the diamond for someone who wants to blend in; it’s for someone who wants to express something unique about their journey, their taste, their relationship.
Whether you’re drawn to the ethical brilliance of lab-grown stones or simply captivated by the artistry of the pear cut, one thing’s clear: this design has depth. It’s not a fleeting trend — it’s a modern heirloom in the making.