Guide To Teardrop Engagement Rings

Kimberly Zerkel and Angelica Frey | May 07, 2023

A Teardrop-diamond engagement ring–also known as a Pear engagement ring, perfectly conveys the tears of joy that come with the act of buying and receiving an engagement ring. It’s a romantic, elegant, and elongated shape that suits sleek, art-deco, and geometric settings with the same ease.

Read on to discover more about Teardrop engagement rings featuring VRAI created diamonds, and book an appointment with our experts if you think that a Teardrop diamond can be in your cards.

What Should You Know Before Buying a Teardrop Diamond?

A teardrop diamond, also known as Pear diamond, is known for its flattering and elegant shape. A teardrop diamond combines the characteristics of the Round diamond and of the Marquise diamond, respectively high brilliance and an elongated shape with a large surface area. A Teardrop diamond has a unique anatomy. The rounded part is known as its “head”, the pointed part as “point.” The curves next to the head are the diamond’s “shoulders,” the tapered arches leading to the point are known as “wings.”

Its faceting is similar to the one seen on the Round Brilliant diamond, as Teardrop diamonds are cut to maximize brilliance. Its facets are mostly triangular and kite-shaped. In addition, Teardrop diamonds can display a Bow Tie, two dark triangles present toward the center of the diamond. Brilliant, elongated cuts such as Teardrop, Oval, and Marquise can all display a bow tie due to the way the faceting changes in the center of the diamond.

What Are Teardrop Diamonds?

Teardrop shaped diamonds are often called Pear shaped diamonds. They are asymmetrical and combine the curves of a Round Brilliant diamond with the points of a Marquise. Quite literally, they resemble a tear.

Teardrop shaped diamonds have existed since the mid-15th century and were invented by a craftsperson from what is now modern-day Belgium. Since then, the Teardrop has waxed and waned in popularity. Today, it is back in the limelight as certain celebrities have chosen Teardrop diamonds for their engagement ring.

It is considered a fancy shape and is perfect in modern vintage-inspired and modern-yet-timeless designs.

Pear Shaped vs Teardrop Engagement Rings

Pear shaped diamonds and Teardrop diamonds mean the exact same thing. The two names are interchangeable. A Teardrop engagement ring is the same as a Pear shaped diamond engagement ring.

Many jewelry brands will choose which name they use for their inventory. VRAI refers to Teardrop diamonds as Pear.

What’s The Most Important of Diamond 4C’s in a Teardrop Diamond?

A Teardrop shaped diamond shares some characteristics with other fancy-shaped diamonds such as the Marquise and the Heart. When it comes to the 4Cs, the most notable feature they share is the tendency to hold more color than a round brilliant. If you want your Teardrop diamond to look colorless, you should be particularly mindful of the color grade. On the other hand, if you like the cream-white cast of a slightly colored diamond, a Teardrop diamond will fully showcase it.

In addition, while Cut is only formally graded in Round Brilliant diamonds, Symmetry is a key factor in the beauty of a Teardrop diamond.

Do Teardrop Diamonds Look Big For Their Carat Weight?

Teardrop diamonds have an elongated shape. This means that they, in turn, also elongate your finger. In addition, like other elongated shapes (Oval, Emerald, and Marquise), Teardrop diamonds have a larger surface area compared to Round Brilliant diamonds. At the same carat weight, they will give the finger more coverage than a Round Brilliant weighing the same. Let this also be a reminder that the word “carat” refers to weight and not size, and that 1 carat weighs 0.2 grams.

A 1 carat Teardrop measures between 9.14 x 5.50mm and 9.34 x 5.70mm—a Round Brilliant weighing 1 carat will measure approximately 6.5 mm diameter. At 1.5, the dimensions go from 10.45 x 6.30 to 10.65 x 6.50mm, while a 1.5 carat Round Brilliant will average 7.4mm in diameter. Finally, a 2 carat Teardrop will range from 11.53 x 6.95mm to 11.73 x 7.15mm, whereas a 2 carat Round Brilliant measures around 8.1mm in diameter. All these measures come from VRAI’s Diamond Size Chart, and have data compiled from the database of VRAI created diamonds.

Can Teardrop Diamonds also Have Step Cut Facets?

Teardrop diamonds employ brilliant-cut facets, but Kite shapes are a fantastic alternative. They are part of VRAI’s Cut for You process. “They are more geometric and have a step cut faceting,” says Chang. “But because they have a distinctive wider end that thins out to a point on the opposite side, it can give the illusion of the pear from a distance.”

How Do You Wear A Teardrop Ring?

A Teardrop ring can be worn with the diamond in a North-South, or vertical, position with the point either going up or down. This depends largely on the chosen setting and style. Some engagement ring settings feature a Teardrop diamond in an East-West, or horizontal, position. Once again, the point can face either direction and is a matter of personal preference.

Most choose to wear a Teardrop diamond engagement ring on their left ring finger. When paired with a wedding band, it’s important to find a wedding ring set that will pair flush with one another. Certain styles might bump against the Teardrop’s pointed edge.

What Is The Best Metal For Teardrop Diamond Engagement Rings?

The choice of metal and color should always be based on personal preference. Start by considering what metal color features predominantly in your fine jewelry collection. As you’ll likely wear your engagement ring every day, you’ll want a design that compliments other pieces that you wear.

Second, consider the overall look that you’d like to create. Platinum or solid yellow gold are perfect for those with timelessly elegant style, while white or rose gold can work for both modern or vintage-inspired designs. The choice of metal and color should be based on personal preference. Take these details into consideration when selecting which metal is right for you.

Rose Gold Teardrop Engagement Rings

Rose gold creates a look that is regal, romantic, and vintage-inspired. A rose gold engagement ring with a teardrop shaped diamond has a whimsical and historical appeal, perfect for those looking for an heirloom in the making.

Yellow Gold Teardrop Engagement Rings

Yellow gold is the color most associated with gold itself, and is sought after for its timeless appeal. A yellow gold Teardrop engagement ring marries classic elegance with alluring sophistication for the individual looking for a twist on traditional.

White Gold Teardrop Engagement Rings

White gold’s clean and bright shine paired with a Teardrop diamond creates an instant sleek and futuristic look. For something more future-forward, select white gold settings that feature contemporary edges and lines.

Platinum Teardrop Engagement Rings

Platinum is renowned for its luster, purity, and durability. A platinum Teardrop engagement ring is the ultimate expression of refinement in these diamond accented designs.

What Is the Best Teardrop Engagement Ring Setting?

The setting refers to the overall design of a ring and is a way of expressing your personal style, whether it's vintage-inspired or modern-yet-timeless. When selecting a setting, choose the best one to pair with your everyday style.

Teardrop Halo Engagement Rings

A Teardrop Halo engagement ring creates a look that is romantic and vintage-inspired. Select your metal color, pavé details, and size of Halo to make this look uniquely yours.

Three Stone Teardrop Engagement Rings

A Three Stone Teardrop engagement ring can feature three Teardrops in a row in a style sometimes referred to as a trio. Or it can feature one Teardrop diamond shape at its center with side stones of a different shape, such as a Trillion-shaped diamonds. Create the combination that is most personal to you.

Solitaire Teardrop Engagement Rings

The word solitaire comes from the French word for single or alone, and differentiates this setting from a Three Stone engagement ring with three diamonds instead of one. A solitaire Teardrop engagement ring highlights this unique shape to perfection.

What Wedding Ring Should I Wear With Teardrop Diamond Engagement Rings?

When it comes to a Teardrop engagement ring, it’s important to choose bands that will pair flush with the ring. Round, Flat, Devotion, or Infinity bands are usually slim enough to line up with the ring with ease. A thicker band, such as a Curator band, or even a medium or large Eternity band, might not sit comfortably together on the finger as they may interfere with the Teardrop’s pointed edge.

Speak With Our Diamond Experts

Ready to find the Teardrop diamond engagement ring that’s right for you? Book a complimentary appointment with our diamond experts and you’ll receive personalized guidance in selecting the setting and VRAI created diamond meant just for you.

virtual appointment with diamond expert meeting with potential customers over a call on a computer
virtual appointment with diamond expert meeting with potential customers over a call on a computer

Consult with a diamond expert

Speak with our diamond experts and enjoy:

  • Personalized guidance to select your ring
  • In-depth diamond 4C education
  • Exclusive in-store fittings or virtual try-ons
  • Custom design options

Speak with our diamond experts and enjoy:

  • Personalized guidance to select your ring
  • In-depth diamond 4C education
  • Exclusive in-store fittings or virtual try-ons
  • Custom design options