7/8 Carat Diamonds: The Perfect Size for Your Engagement Ring?

When shopping for an engagement ring, one of the biggest decisions revolves around the diamond’s size. While many people automatically consider the classic 1-carat diamond, there’s an underrated option that offers nearly the same visual appeal at a better value—7/8 carat diamonds. These diamonds are an excellent choice for those looking to balance size, brilliance, and budget.

In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about 7/8 carat diamonds, from their appearance and pricing to how they compare to other sizes and the best settings to enhance their beauty.

What Is a 7/8 Carat Diamond?

A 7/8 carat diamond weighs approximately 0.875 carats, making it slightly smaller than a full 1-carat diamond. While this difference might seem significant in terms of weight, the actual visual difference is minimal. The diameter of a round-cut 7/8 carat diamond is typically around 6.0 mm to 6.2 mm, compared to about 6.4 mm to 6.5 mm for a 1-carat stone. This small size variation is barely noticeable to the untrained eye, but the price difference can be substantial.

Why Choose a 7/8 Carat Diamond?

1. Nearly Identical Look to a 1-Carat Diamond

One of the biggest reasons buyers choose 7/8 carat diamonds is that they appear almost the same size as a 1-carat diamond but at a lower cost. Since diamond pricing increases significantly at whole-carat marks, choosing just below that threshold can offer substantial savings without sacrificing appearance.

2. Better Value for Your Money

The price jump from a 7/8 carat diamond to a 1-carat diamond can be as much as 20-30% or more, depending on cut, clarity, and color. However, the slight size difference is almost imperceptible. This makes a 7/8 carat diamond an ideal choice for those who want a high-quality diamond without overpaying for an extra fraction of a carat.

3. Availability of High-Quality Stones

Because 7/8 carat diamonds are less in demand than 1-carat stones, jewelers often have a good selection of high-quality diamonds in this size. Many people prioritize hitting the full 1-carat mark, meaning there is less competition for well-cut 7/8 carat diamonds with excellent clarity and color.

Comparing 7/8 Carat Diamonds to Other Popular Sizes

7/8 Carat vs. 1 Carat Diamonds

• Size Difference: A 1-carat diamond is only about 0.2 – 0.4 mm larger in diameter than a 7/8 carat diamond. This difference is hardly noticeable in everyday wear.
• Price Difference: A 1-carat diamond can be significantly more expensive due to high demand, making a 7/8 carat diamond a smarter financial choice.
• Brilliance and Sparkle: With a high-quality cut, a 7/8 carat diamond can sparkle just as beautifully as a 1-carat stone.

7/8 Carat vs. 3/4 Carat Diamonds

• Size Difference: A 3/4 carat diamond (0.75 carats) is noticeably smaller than a 7/8 carat diamond, with a diameter of around 5.7 mm to 5.9 mm.
• Value for Money: A 7/8 carat diamond provides more presence on the finger without a major increase in cost compared to a 3/4 carat diamond.
• Enhanced Appearance: The extra weight in a 7/8 carat diamond gives it a fuller look, making it closer to the classic 1-carat appearance.

Best Diamond Cuts for 7/8 Carat Diamonds

The cut of a diamond has the biggest impact on its brilliance and perceived size. Here are the best cuts to maximize the beauty of a 7/8 carat diamond:

1. Round Brilliant Cut

• The most popular and sparkling cut.
• Maximizes light reflection, making the diamond appear larger.
• Excellent choice for classic engagement rings.

2. Oval Cut

• Elongated shape makes the diamond appear bigger than it is.
• Adds a unique and elegant touch to any ring setting.

3. Princess Cut

• Square shape with brilliant facets.
• Offers a modern and striking look with excellent sparkle.

4. Cushion Cut

• Rounded corners give a soft, romantic appeal.
• Retains good brilliance and works well in vintage-inspired designs.

Best Ring Settings for 7/8 Carat Diamonds

Choosing the right setting can enhance the beauty and presence of a 7/8 carat diamond. Here are some of the best settings:

1. Halo Setting

• A ring of smaller diamonds surrounds the center stone.
• Makes the 7/8 carat diamond look much larger and enhances brilliance.

2. Solitaire Setting

• A classic and timeless choice.
• Puts all the focus on the diamond, making it appear more prominent.

3. Three-Stone Setting

• Two smaller diamonds on the sides create an illusion of a bigger center stone.
• Adds extra sparkle and elegance.

4. Bezel Setting

• The diamond is encased in metal for a sleek, modern look.
• Provides extra protection for the stone.

How to Choose a High-Quality 7/8 Carat Diamond

When shopping for a 7/8 carat diamond, consider the Four Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat) to ensure you get the best stone for your budget.

1. Cut

• The most important factor for sparkle.
• Opt for Excellent or Very Good cut grades for maximum brilliance.

2. Color

• Choose G-H color for a white appearance without the premium price of D-F color diamonds.

3. Clarity

• Look for VS1-VS2 clarity to ensure no visible inclusions.
• SI1 diamonds can also be a great value if they appear eye-clean.

4. Carat

• A 7/8 carat diamond provides an excellent balance between size and price.
• Prioritize cut over carat weight for better overall beauty.

Final Thoughts: Is a 7/8 Carat Diamond Right for You?

If you’re looking for an engagement ring that offers a great balance between size, beauty, and price, a 7/8 carat diamond is a fantastic option. It provides nearly the same visual impact as a 1-carat diamond while offering significant cost savings. With the right cut and setting, a 7/8 carat diamond can look stunning and luxurious without the premium price tag.

Before making your final decision, compare different stones, prioritize a high-quality cut, and choose a setting that enhances your diamond’s brilliance. Whether you prefer a solitaire, halo, or vintage-inspired design, a 7/8 carat diamond will undoubtedly make a breathtaking and timeless choice for your engagement ring.

May Also Read: thetechnotricks