Pear Diamond

The pear shape was invented in 1458 by Flemish diamond cutter Lodewyk van Berquem, making it one of the oldest fancy shapes in existence. Its hybrid design merges elements of the round brilliant (at the rounded end) and the marquise (at the pointed tip), resulting in a modified brilliant cut with strong light performance and a distinctive teardrop outline. One of the pear shape's most important quality factors is symmetry. The pointed tip should align precisely with the apex of the rounded end, and the two curved sides (known as 'shoulders' and 'wings') should mirror each other exactly. Asymmetry in a pear shape is far more visible than in most other shapes because the eye naturally traces the outline from point to curve. A bow-tie effect is also common in pears, similar to ovals and marquises, and should be evaluated through video or in-person inspection. Pears are extremely versatile. They work as engagement ring center stones (point facing the fingertip), as pendants (point facing down), and as side stones flanking a larger center diamond. In the trade, well-cut pears with good symmetry command a slight premium over average specimens, but the shape as a whole runs 20-30% below round brilliant pricing. Their elongated profile also makes them appear larger face-up than rounds of equal carat weight, offering strong perceived value for size-conscious buyers.