The pear cut dated way back to the 15^th century and it was originally cut to maximize the amount of light which the diamond reflects. For this to happen, the diamond needed to be cut in such a way that it will be possible to polish all the facets of the diamond.

The appearance of the pear diamond looks like the marquise and round cut diamonds. Its facets are arranged to maximize the sparkle and brilliance of the diamond. The shape of the pear diamond is often described as the “tear drop” shape, tapered at one end and round at the opposite side. The diamond is worn in a way that the tapered end is pointing towards the wearer and very much like the oval cut and few other diamond cuts, it also creates the illusion of the wearer’s finger appearing thinner and longer than it is.

Symmetry is very important for this diamond cut. It is very important for the outlook and overall shape of the diamond. The symmetry should be rated excellent or very good at least, before you buy it. Any rating lower than these is unacceptable for this diamond cut. The diamond’s shoulders and wings (which are the upper and lower curve) on both sides of the diamond should be identical and uniform, without any straight edges. The peak (at the round bottom) of the diamond must align with the tapered end of the diamond. The rounded part of the diamond should be a semi-circle not narrow or squat.

Depending on the personal preference of the buyer, pear diamonds of the same size and weight may have different length to width ratio. Some buyers may prefer a longer and thinner pear diamond while some others may prefer a squat and fatter pear diamond. The difference between them is the length to width ratio. Ideally, the length to width ratio of the pear cut diamond is between 1.40-1.70. You can ask for a diamond with a higher or lower length to width ratio than this depending on your preference. Setting also plays an important role in determining preferred length to width ratio. If the diamond will be set in a solitaire ring, the diamond’s shape will be wide, but narrow if it will be set in a dangling earring.

The pear cut is one of the diamond cut that is prone to the bowtie effect, so you have to physically inspect the diamond before buying it.

Color is usually more noticeable in pear diamonds, especially in the bigger ones and the pointed ends of the diamond. The setting you are placing the diamond in can also help you determine what color grade to buy.

The pear diamond has the ability to hide impurities in it. This trait can help you save some money as you can go a little further down the clarity scale.