There are many different ways to make a piece of diamond jewelry stand out. Designers can add a pop of color with gemstones or create unique and delicate shapes with filigree. Nothing, however, makes diamond jewelry sparkle and shine quite like a diamond accent.
What is diamond accent? Diamond accents, or accent diamonds, are small diamonds that are used to complement large diamonds and enhance the beauty of the jewelry piece.
How Big Are Diamond Accents?
The size of a diamond accent can vary depending on the setting and the size of the main diamond. In general, accent diamonds weigh between 0.01 and 0.20 carats. Since these diamonds enhance the beauty of large diamonds or other gems, accents are usually relatively small.
What Are the Different Types of Diamond Accents?
There are four main types of diamond accents that are used in jewelry today, which are:
- Baguette Accent Diamonds
- Marquise Accent Diamonds
- Trillion Accent Diamonds
- Round Accent Diamonds
Baguette Accent Diamonds
Baguette diamonds are step-cut diamonds with a rectangular shape. There are also tapered baguette diamonds, which are rectangular-shaped diamonds with long sides that start to become more narrow towards the bottom.
This type of diamond is typically used as a side stone, with one baguette diamond on each side of a larger diamond. Baguette diamonds are only cut with 14 facets, so they complement larger diamonds without stealing the spotlight away from them.
It’s fairly easy to embed baguette diamonds into a thin band due to their long shape. For this reason, baguette diamonds are often placed around the entire length of a ring or bracelet with a channel setting.
Marquise Accent Diamonds
Marquise diamonds are oval shaped diamonds with curved sides that come to a sharp point at the top and bottom. Like baguette diamonds, marquise accent diamonds are also mainly used as side stones.
The soft curves of a marquise diamond contrast beautifully with the sharp lines of emerald and princess cut diamonds. Marquise diamonds complement round diamonds as well, adding an unexpected twist to an otherwise classic piece of jewelry.
The unique shape of these diamonds makes them more versatile. Placing them in a V-shape creates a beautiful and unique chevron pattern that will make any piece of jewelry stand out.
Trillion Accent Diamonds
Trillion diamonds are triangular shaped diamonds that are cut just like radiant diamonds to create an intense sparkle. Trillion diamonds are often used as side stones in three-stone settings.
The brilliance of a trillion diamond will outshine diamonds that don’t have a great deal of sparkle and shine. For this reason, it’s best to pair trillion accent diamonds with round brilliant, oval, or radiant diamonds.
Round Accent Diamonds
Round accent diamonds are simple, yet absolutely stunning. This is the most versatile type of accent diamond because its classic shape pairs beautifully with every diamond shape, so it can be used in any setting.
Round diamonds are often used as side stones or in pave or channel settings. Round diamonds are also used to create the popular halo setting, which features round accent diamonds surrounding a large diamond. These diamonds provide extra sparkle and shine in every setting.
How to Choose the Right Accent Diamonds For Your Jewelry
The right accent diamonds can turn a simple piece of diamond jewelry into a glamorous showstopper. But, how can you find the right accent diamonds for your jewelry? Follow these tips:
- Find the right size. It’s best to choose accent diamonds that are no larger than 15% of the size of the main stone. For example, if the main diamond is 1 carat, each accent stone should be less than 0.15 carats.
- Select matching diamonds. It’s important to choose accent diamonds that are the same size, shape, color, and clarity so they blend together. Using different accent diamonds will distract from the beauty of the large center diamond.
- Don’t be afraid to take risks. There’s no need to match the shape of your accent diamonds to the shape of the large diamond. Take risks by pairing different shapes together to create a piece of jewelry that is unique and beautiful, just like you!
Above all, remember that there are no right or wrong choices when it comes to accent diamonds. You will never regret your decision if you choose the accent diamonds that you love the most.
Make Your Jewelry Sparkle and Shine With Accent Diamonds
Accent diamonds are often overlooked because of their small size, but they play an important role in jewelry design. An accent diamond can help you add the perfect amount of sparkle to your favorite jewelry pieces. Add a few for a subtle sparkle or a handful to create an intense, blindingly beautiful shine!
