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24.03.23
What’s the Best Size Diamond Studs? A Visual Guide (With Photos)
Diamond stud earrings are a piece of jewelry often overlooked. They’re more ‘first lady’ than ‘city girl’, but along with the (not so humble) tennis bracelet, are a staple piece of diamond jewelry that every collection should include. But before you invest your hard-earned change, you’ll want confidence in knowing that you’re buying the best size diamond studs for your lifestyle. After all, you don’t want to spend money on blinding diamond studs only to see them falling out of your ears, or end up with garishly big diamonds that give an unintended mob wife vibe [unless that’s your thing, we don’t judge]. Here’s the breakdown of everything you need to know about diamond stud earrings so you can find the one for you.
Is There a ‘Best Size’ for Diamond Stud Earrings?
Well, yes and no. While, spoiler alert: it always matters. First things first, remember that when buying diamond stud earrings, the total carat weight you see is for the pair of earrings, not the individual pieces. Often referred to as TCW or total carat weight or CTW as carat total weight. And while it is kind of annoying to constantly divide the TCW by 2, it does help knowing just how big each diamond is individually. Especially when it comes to price and look. While the bigger the diamond, the heftier the price tag, much like engagement rings, bigger isn’t always better, and truthfully? The answer depends on a mix of factors such as lifestyle, budget, and personal preference. Let us explain:
The Everyday Staple (0.50 – 1.00 ctw)
Diamond earrings do a great job at bringing light to the face, but go too small, and you may as well wear Claire’s accessories (no offense, Claire). 1/2 carat per ear is a good starter if you have small features, particularly if you have other ear piercings, as going too big can make your ears look too busy. A good size for diamond studs, especially when you’re first dipping your toes in, .5 carats offer that just right shine with a just right unfussiness.
Alternatively, 1 carat per ear (that’s 2 carat diamond total) is the best option if you’re looking for something you can wear every day. They’re just large enough to make a statement, but not too large that you’re constantly uncomfortable or fiddling with your ear.
Our Favorite Everyday 1 Ct Diamond Stud Earrings
The Perfect Upgrade (1.50 – 2.5 ctw)
Let’s say you’re not new to the diamond stud earring game and you’re looking for something….more. Look no further than diamond studs in the 1.5 carat to 2 carat to 2.5 carat range. Slightly larger than their 1 carat counterparts, these earrings offer the perfect blend of size and affordability. They’re also endlessly versatile. Need a pair that’ll take you from the office grind to a glitzy gala? This is the size diamond studs to get.
Our Favorite 2 Carat Diamond Stud Earrings
The Statement Look (2.5 ctw & beyond)
We’re talking that big diamond stud look with brilliant stones that start at 2.5 to 3 carats for a 5 – 6 ctw. This is your red carpet moment, bottled. Honestly, forget blending in; these studs are designed to start conversations. They are unapologetically glamorous and shockingly brilliant. You don’t just wear these to the gala; these studs are the gala. This is pure, unadulterated luxury. So, when you’re truly ready to go big, this is your move.
Our Favorite 3 Carat + Diamond Stud Designs
Diamond Stud Earring Carat Weights In Depth
So maybe you know what size diamond stud earring fits your vibe, but you’re still confused over the difference in CTW and carat weight. Or maybe, you just want to know exactly how that translates to appearance. Well, you’re in luck.
What “1 Carat” Diamond Studs Really Means
Let’s clear up the single biggest point of confusion when buying diamond studs: Total Carat Weight (ctw) vs. Individual Carat Weight. It bears repeating because we’re always fielding this question. “Ctw” stands for “total carat weight.” This means it is the combined weight of all diamonds in the piece.
For stud earrings, this weight is split between both ears. Therefore, if you see a pair of studs advertised as “1 ctw” (which targets the “1 carat total weight” query), you are not getting a 1-carat diamond in each ear. Instead, you are getting two 0.50-carat diamonds that add up to 1 carat.
Consequently, if your goal is to have a full 1-carat diamond in each ear, you must specifically shop for “1 carat each diamond studs.” This pair would actually be advertised as “2 ctw.” Understanding this difference is the key to managing your budget and ensuring the studs you unbox are the exact size you were picturing.
What “1 Carat” Diamond Studs Look Like
As we mentioned above, 1 carat diamond studs come out to be 0.5 carats per stud. But what does this mean for your (or your partners) ears? Let’s get granular. A round brilliant cut diamond stud that’s 0.5 carats has a diameter of about 5.0-5.1mm. That’s roughly the size of a pencil eraser.
Alternatively:
- Oval Studs : 6 x 4mm
- Emerald Studs: 5.3 x 3.9mm
- Asscher Studs: 4.3 x 4.5mm
- Princess Studs: 4.3 x 4.5mm
- Cushion Studs: 4.5 x 4.9mm
- Pear Studs: 7.2 x 4.3mm
- Radiant Studs: 6 x 4mm
- Marquise Studs: 8 x 4mm
What “2 Carat” Diamond Studs Look Like
“2 ctw” diamond studs mean you get a full 1.0-carat diamond in each ear. But what does this popular, statement-making size actually look like on your (or your partner’s) ears? A round brilliant cut diamond stud that’s 1.0 carats has a diameter of about 6.5mm. That’s roughly the size of a standard green pea.
Alternatively:
- Oval Studs: 8 x 6mm
- Emerald Studs: 7 x 5mm
- Asscher Studs: 5.4 x 5.5mm
- Princess Studs: 5.5 x 5.5mm
- Cushion Studs: 5.6 x 5.9mm
- Pear Studs: 8.2 x 5.3mm
- Radiant Studs: 6.8 x 5.1mm
- Marquise Studs: 10 x 5mm
What “3 Carat” Diamond Studs Look Like
Following the same rule, “3 ctw” diamond studs mean you get a truly substantial 1.5-carat diamond in each ear. But what does this luxurious size actually look like on your (or your partner’s) ears? Well, a round brilliant cut diamond stud that’s 1.5 carats has a diameter of about 7.4mm. That’s roughly the full width of a chocolate chip. Yum.
Alternatively:
- Oval Studs: 9 x 7mm
- Emerald Studs: 7.5 x 5.5mm
- Asscher Studs: 6.5 x 6.5mm
- Princess Studs: 6.5 x 6.5mm
- Cushion Studs: 6.5 x 6.5mm
- Pear Studs: 10 x 6.5mm
- Radiant Studs: 7.5 x 6mm
- Marquise Studs: 11 x 6mm
Our Tricks for Affording More Diamond for Less
If you prefer the look of 3 carat diamond studs but have a 1 carat budget, you’re in luck. We’re sharing our top shopping tips and tricks so you can afford more for less.
Shape Dictates Size
Take a look at the mm comparison above and one thing becomes abundantly clear. No diamond shape is the same. Why? Well, diamonds are like people and different shapes hold weight differently. Diamond shapes that favor deeper cuts can hold weight below their girdle. Alternatively, spreader shapes spread their carat weight across their table resulting in a larger look.
So, if you want a larger looking diamond, opt for longer, leaner stones. Think: oval, marquise, pear, and elongated cushion cuts.
Create Visual Depth With Your Stud Setting
Why should your diamonds get all the fun? Create visual interest and texture with a unique diamond stud setting that adds to the luxury feel of diamond earrings. It’s an easy hack to up your vibe without upping your cost.
Our Favorite Unique Earring Settings
Opt for Moissanite and Save Big
If you can’t let go of that super-large look and are finding there’s no wiggle-room in your budget, consider Moissanite. Like diamonds, Moissanite is extremely tough, (it has a Mohs rank of 9.2-9.5) and is actually sparklier than diamonds thanks to its high refractive index.
But let’s talk about the price. On average, Moissanite stud earrings are 68% more affordable than lab grown diamonds. That’s a 3 carat Moissanite for the price of a 1 carat diamond!
Protecting Your Studs Saves You Money
Have you ever lost a diamond earring?… Same. Whether you’re clumsy or not, even the slightest knock or movement like fixing your hair or trying on clothes or taking off your jacket and personally, the one earring life isn’t for us. It’s too devastating not to mention costly.
Traditional butterfly push-backs will be on the majority of your existing earrings, and these loosen over time, becoming gradually less secure, and aren’t suitable for any super valuable earrings. Screw backs are the most secure kind of earring back. Screwing on your earring back takes a bit more time, but it keeps your diamond stud firmly on your ear.
Protector backs have the same sort of “push the sides together’ mechanism you find on Benadryl bottles [not that I’d know anything about that]. These are a good option however can be a bit fidgety so don’t try and put your earrings on over a sink – because plumbers don’t appreciate getting called out on the weekend to fish jewelry out from the water pipes.
FAQs: The Best Size Diamond Studs
What are good size diamond earrings?
Honestly, the “good size” for diamond earrings is a total myth. The right size is simply the one that fits your personal style, your lifestyle, and your budget. However, we can break it down. Are you hunting for a subtle, “second-skin” sparkle? If so, anything from 0.5 to 1.00 ctw is a perfect start. Alternatively, are you looking for a classic, everyday pair with a noticeable presence? This is where the 1.5 ctw to 2.0 ctw range truly shines. Ultimately, if you’re aiming for that unapologetic, “wow” factor, 2.5 ctw and up is your move. The “good size” is just the one that makes you feel fantastic.
What size diamond earrings are good for everyday wear?
For the perfect “wear-everywhere” stud, the 1 ctw to 2 ctw range is the undisputed sweet spot. This is because this size masters the art of versatility. A 1 ctw pair (meaning 0.50 carat per ear) is your timeless classic. It’s perfectly polished for the office, yet sparkly enough for date night. However, if you want a bit more “oomph,” a 2 ctw pair (a full 1.0 carat per ear) delivers a truly luxurious statement that still feels sophisticated enough for the daily grind.
Ultimately, this range offers the most flexibility, taking you from a coffee run to a black-tie event without skipping a beat. It’s the perfect blend of presence and practicality.
What is the most popular size of diamond stud earrings?
Hands down, the 2 ctw (total carat weight) pair is the most popular and classic choice for diamond stud earrings. This translates to a 1 carat diamond in each ear, which hits the perfect “Goldilocks” sweet spot. Why? Because this size is substantial enough to be truly noticeable and feel luxurious. Yet, it’s not so large that it feels over-the-top for daily wear, making it incredibly versatile.
Consequently, it’s the go-to size for milestone gifts like anniversaries, graduations, or birthdays. It simply hits the perfect intersection of visible presence, timeless style, and smart value.
Treat Yourself to The Perfect Pair of Diamond Stud Earrings
Now that you’re ready to buy the perfect pair of diamond studs for yourself, you can check out our diamond search where you can view 360-degree images of more than 10,000 diamonds to get some inspo, then email our team with what you’re looking for at hello@frankdarling.com and we can curate some super special pairs just for you. Or book a virtual or offline appointment at any of our nationwide salons to view certified lab grown and natural diamonds or Moissanite in person.
Stephanie is a jewelry lover, gemologist, and seasoned copywriter with a decade of experience in e-commerce and tech. A RISD graduate, Stephanie also studied at GIA and has worked in the jewelry industry for 20 years. When not writing about diamonds and jewelry, Stephanie is also a photographer and backyard flower farmer. She lives in Tacoma, WA with her two black cats.