A pear cut is a brilliant cut with a rounded end and a single point, sometimes called a teardrop. It combines the sparkle of a round with the elongating effect of a marquise, and it is one of the more distinctive shapes without being difficult to wear.
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How it wears
A pear is worn with the point facing away from the hand, towards the fingernail. Worn this way it visually lengthens the finger, similar to an oval but with more asymmetry and more character.
Like all elongated brilliant cuts, a pear presents more surface area than a round of the same carat weight, so it looks larger on the finger.
What to watch for
Two things. First, symmetry: the two curved shoulders must mirror each other exactly, and any imbalance is immediately visible once you notice it. Second, the bowtie, a darker shadow across the widest part of the stone, which every elongated brilliant has to some degree. A slight one is normal, a heavy one is a cutting fault.
The point is also the most vulnerable part of the stone and should be protected by a claw known as a V-tip, which wraps the point rather than gripping beside it.
Settings
Solitaire shows the outline most clearly and is the most common choice. Halo exaggerates the size and softens the asymmetry. Bezel follows the curve and protects the point completely, which is the most practical option for active wear.
Compare with other elongated shapes: oval for something more symmetrical, or marquise for something more dramatic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which way does a pear ring face?
Point towards the fingernail, rounded end towards the hand. Worn this way it lengthens the finger.
Is the point fragile?
It is the most vulnerable part of the stone, which is why a V-tip claw that wraps the point is standard on well-made pear rings.
What is a bowtie?
A darker shadow across the widest part of the stone. Every elongated brilliant cut has some. Slight is normal, pronounced is a cutting fault.
Does a pear look bigger than a round?
Yes, at the same carat weight, because more of the weight sits in surface area rather than depth.