Accent diamonds are typically available in three shapes: baguette, trillion cut, and small round diamonds.
Baguette Diamond
The baguette shape is often considered the perfect accent diamond shape due to its symmetry and large table size. This shape provides a striking contrast to center stones like round or cushion cut diamonds, and is also budget-friendly because it’s available in smaller carat weights. However, it’s worth noting that baguette accents generally have less sparkle than trillion cut or small round accent diamonds.
Baguette accent diamonds come in two popular styles: tapered and straight. Tapered shapes are slightly wider at one end, following the ring’s natural curve. They are commonly used in side-stone and three-stone ring settings, complementing nearly all diamond shapes such as round brilliant, emerald, radiant, and princess cuts.
Straight baguette accent diamonds are almost perfectly rectangular and often appear larger due to their large table size. These diamonds are typically arranged in rows that give the illusion of a full diamond band. They perfectly complement a variety of center stone shapes, especially round brilliant, marquise, and asscher cuts.
Trillion Cut Diamond
With a distinctive triangular shape, trillion cut accent diamonds naturally follow the curve of a ring. Their wide table lends itself to a larger appearance, making them a great choice for increasing a ring’s visual volume. These stones work best in a three-stone setting with round brilliant or cushion cut center stones and are also compatible with princess or radiant cut center diamonds.
Small Round Diamond
The classic small round diamond is the most versatile accent diamond shape. They are categorized into three types: “Stars” (0.02 ct or less), “full cuts” (0.02 – 0.07 ct), and “melee” (0.08 – 0.18 ct).
Small round accent diamonds work beautifully in various settings such as three-stone, side stone, pave, or channel ring settings. They are often used to fill out thicker settings but also shine beautifully in thinner pave settings, allowing their sparkle to stand out.
Considering Color, Clarity, Carat, and Setting Style
In selecting the ideal shape and style, it’s also crucial to match the color, clarity, and carat of your center and accent diamonds aesthetically.
For color, the center stone should look the most colorless. Selecting accent diamonds 1-3 color grades lower than the center diamond ensures the focus remains on the stunning centerpiece. These slight variations, often undetectable to the naked eye, allow you to save money without sacrificing beauty.
The same principle applies to diamond clarity. Choose eye-clean accent diamonds (inclusions not visible to the naked eye) but feel free to select stones that are 1-2 clarity grades lower than the main stone. For diamonds below 0.02 carats, you can even opt for a clarity 2-4 grades lower.
In discussing smaller diamonds, you’ll often encounter the term “diamond pointers.” For instance, a 0.30-carat diamond is called a “30 pointer” because each carat is divided into “100 points.”
Accent diamonds usually range from 0.01 to 0.18 ct and are chosen based on personal preference and the ring setting.
Three-stone and side-stone ring settings often favor accent diamonds about half the size of the main stone for a balanced look. For a cohesive design, the diameters of the accent diamonds should approximate the center stone’s table size and should be almost identical in size and shape.
Conversely, pave and channel settings usually feature smaller accent diamonds due to the number of side stones. A general guideline is to choose accent diamonds no greater than 1/6th the size of the center stone.
Besides diamonds, many opt for gemstone accents like sapphires to add a touch of color to traditional diamond rings. This is a subtle yet beautiful way to personalize the jewelry.
Ultimately, the most critical factor is the wearer. Ensure you select the style, size, and shape that best complements the wearer’s hand.
Small round accent diamonds work beautifully in three-stone, side stone, pave, or channel ring settings and are often used to fill out thicker settings. They are equally stunning in thinner pave settings that showcase their sparkle.
FAQs
What are diamond accents?
Accent diamonds are the small diamonds placed beside a larger stone in a jewelry piece. They significantly enhance the ring’s look and appeal.
What shapes do accent diamonds come in?
Accent diamonds typically come in three shapes: baguette, trillion cut, and small round diamonds.
Is a baguette a good accent diamond?
Yes, baguette-cut diamonds are excellent as accents due to their symmetry and large table size. They ideally contrast with common center stones like round cut or cushion cut diamonds.
What size should my accent diamonds be?
Accent diamonds generally range from 0.01 to 0.18 ct, chosen based on personal preference and the ring setting. They usually complement, rather than overpower, the center stone.
Can I use gemstones as accents instead of diamonds?
Yes, gemstone accents can add a burst of color to the ring design, making it unique. Sapphires, rubies, and emeralds can elevate the ring’s overall look.
