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Courtesy of Ring Concierge / Design by Bailey Mariner
Long ago, in the 16th century, Mary, Queen of Scots, sent a glistening gift to Elizabeth I as a metaphorical olive branch—it was a heart-shaped diamond ring. While you don't often see this variation of diamond cut for engagement rings, the heart-shaped silhouette is definitely worth a second look. Due to its old-world roots and artful design, it's become an appealing option for traditional and alternative brides alike. Modern-day adopters of this whimsical stone silhouette include celebrities like Lady Gaga and Niki Minaj.
What Is a Heart-Shaped Diamond?
A heart-shaped diamond is a variation of the brilliant round cut diamond. It's at least one-half carat in size and sometimes flanked by smaller diamonds.
Symmetry is of the utmost importance with a heart-shaped diamond, however, there is some wiggle room. “While the standard ‘preferred’ ratio is 1:1, meaning the length and width are nearly identical in measurements, many find they prefer a slightly different profile,” explains James Allen cofounder James Schultz.
Ahead, learn about the pros and cons of heart-shaped diamond engagement rings, how to care for a heart-shaped diamond, and more.
Pros and Cons of a Heart-Shaped Diamond
Schultz states that a heart-shaped diamond can be budget-friendly, but your choices may be limited if you’re looking for a larger diamond. “Heart cuts can be more affordable than a brilliant cut, however, you may not have as large of a selection to choose from—especially in higher carat weights,” Schultz says.
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Bailey Mariner/Brides
What to Look for in a Heart-Shaped Diamond
• Are there options for the shape of the diamond? “Do you like a taller heart shape or do you like a wider heart shape? There’s flexibility,” Schultz says.
• What should I look for when it comes to the color and clarity of a heart-shaped diamond? Because the color is often concentrated on the points, “if you are considering a heart diamond that is J-K or lower (on the Diamond Color Chart), you may notice that this area has more warmth compared to the center.” As for inclusions, Schultz explains that it depends on how the stone has been faceted and where the inclusion is located. “Inclusions (or flaws) may be easier to detect in the direct center of the stone under the table, whereas an inclusion near the point might be hidden due to the sparkle,” he says.
• How can I tell if the ring is high quality? Due to the heart’s unique shape, “it is recommended to have a V tip prong at the point of a heart shape, as this area is more prone to damage,” Schultz says. “It’s also a good idea to have a five-prong setting securing your heart shape. The style of the shank (band) and whether you want a solitaire, something vintage, or a halo of glittering diamonds outlining your stone is up to you.”
How to Care for Your Heart-Shaped Diamond
Similar to how you’d care for your other precious stones, Schultz recommends removing your jewelry before sleeping, showering, exercising, and swimming. “Regular inspections and cleanings are helpful to make sure that your prongs are in place and the gem has not encountered any damage,” he adds.
To help you find your dream heart-shaped engagement ring, here are our favorite heart-cut rings for every style and budget.
Kataoka Curved Heart Diamond Ring
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Kataoka
If you’re looking for a heart-shaped diamond ring with an artisanal feel, this piece checks all the boxes. You'll have to see it in motion to admire all the pretty details—diamond-like florets and tiny shimmering stars lend a panache-packed finish.
Brilliant Earth Classic Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring
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Brilliant Earth
A classic engagement ring like this will never go out of style. This ring features a striking contrast between the heart-shaped center stone and the 18k yellow gold band.
Price at time of publish: $650 for setting only
Neil Lane Diamond Bridal Set
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Kay Jewelers
Is sparkle your top priority? Look no further than this resplendent bridal set consisting of a band and matching wedding ring. Twists of round diamonds make this a standout piece.
Price at time of publish: $4,100
Adiamor Micro Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring
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Adiamor
This micro-pavé engagement ring is 360 degrees of perfection. A sparkly diamond band complements this romantic heart-shaped center stone.
Price at time of publish: $1,520
Blue Nile Luna Diamond Engagement Ring
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Blue Nile
A classic silhouette with the perfect amount of sparkle. A dazzling row of shared prong set diamonds makes this ring compatible (and stackable) with other bands.
Tiffany & Co. Heart-Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring in Platinum
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Tiffany & Co.
Simplicity at its finest. This clean platinum band accentuates the radiance of the heart-shaped center stone.
Harry Winston Heart-Shaped Engagement Ring With Tapered Baguettes
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Harry Winston
Behold, a true Harry Winston classic. Tapered baguette side stones add modernity to the heart-shaped diamond for a look of pure elegance.
Forzieri Heart Diamond V-Shaped Band Ring
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Forzieri
A single heart-cut diamond reigns supreme. The unique design is complemented by an eye-catching V-shape pavè diamond band.
Christopher Designs Heart-Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring
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Christopher Designs
A halo of diamonds accompanies this heart-shaped center stone for a romantic finish. It's also available in 14k, 18k, and platinum as well as white, yellow, or rose gold.
Lauren B Heart Shape Yellow Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
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Lauren B
A fancy yellow diamond that’s cut into the shape of a heart and surrounded by a diamond halo? Sold. We love the timeless feel that a round brilliant diamond setting brings.
Zales Heart-Shaped Diamond Solitaire Ring in 14K White Gold
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Zales
For the hopeless romantic in all of us, a heart-shaped diamond solitaire is the way to go. This 14K white gold sparkler will shine bright all on its own.
Price at time of publish: $9,199
Jared Heart Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
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Jared
Your inner sophisticate won't be able to resist this dazzling heart-cut diamond ring. The heart center diamond is surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds for a showstopping finish.
Price at time of publish: $5,000
Chopard For Ever Ring
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Chopard
Go ahead and say "I do" to the diamond engagement ring of your dreams. With a 0.5-carat heart-shaped diamond center and platinum (or 18k white gold) setting, Chopard's For Ever ring is a true classic.
Blue Nile Petite Hidden Halo Solitaire Engagement Ring
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Blue Nile
Build out your own heart-shaped diamond engagement ring with Blue Nile by selecting your desired shape, cut, carat, and clarity. This 18K rose gold solitaire ring featuring a cathedral setting is as exquisite as it gets.
Meira White Gold Diamond Baguette Heart Ring
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Meira
You don't have to spend a fortune for a ring that glistens and shines at all the right angles. This trendsetting 14K white gold diamond baguette heart ring looks divine worn alone or stacked with other finger jewels.
Price at time of publish: $499
De Beers Classic Heart-Shaped Diamond Ring
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De Beers
A classic solitaire ring for the bride with a penchant for timeless beauty. With a lustrous 5K heart-shaped diamond center and platinum band, this De Beers masterpiece has us swooning.
De Beers Aura Heart-Shaped Diamond Ring in Platinum
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De Beers
Cue the romance with this charming heart-shaped diamond ring that's symbolic of your everlasting love for one another. Details include 0.3-carat diamonds and a platinum setting.
Price at time of publish: $3,150
Graff Paragon Heart Shape Diamond Engagement Ring
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Graff
A fairytale wedding calls for a heart-shaped diamond that's just as unique as your vows. The heart silhouette is refined, yet whimsical enough for the most bespoke bride—plus, you have the option to select from a variety of carat sizes.
Meet the Expert
James Schultz is the cofounder and chief customer officer for James Allen.
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