Diamond Stud Earrings Size Guide: How Each Carat Looks

Diamond stud earrings are the one piece of jewelry almost everyone wears. They also make the easiest gift to get right: no ring size, no style risk. The only real question is size. Here is how each size actually looks on the ear.

Carat weight per pair vs per stone

Studs are usually sold by total carat weight (ctw) for the pair. A 2 ctw pair means two 1-carat diamonds. Always check whether a price refers to the pair or to one stone.

How big does each size look?

Approximate diameter of a well-cut round diamond:

• 0.50 ctw pair (0.25 ct each): about 4.1 mm per stone. Small and delicate, perfect for a second piercing or for everyday wear.
• 1 ctw pair (0.50 ct each): about 5.2 mm. The classic first pair of diamond studs.
• 2 ctw pair (1 ct each): about 6.5 mm. Clearly noticeable. Our most popular size.
• 3 ctw pair (1.5 ct each): about 7.4 mm. A real statement while still elegant.
• 4 ctw pair (2 ct each): about 8.1 mm. Bold, red-carpet sparkle.

With lab-grown diamonds, the 2 to 4 ctw sizes cost far less than natural stones of the same size, which is why many buyers go one size up.

Which size should I choose?

• Everyday and office: 1 to 2 ctw.
• A gift to impress: 2 to 3 ctw.
• Evening and statement: 3 ctw and above.
• Smaller earlobes: stay at 2 ctw or below so the stones sit well.

Shape

Round stones give the most sparkle and suit everyone. Princess (square), oval and emerald shapes give a more fashion-forward look. Many shapes are available in our earrings collection.

Settings and backs

Four-prong settings show the most diamond. Screw-back or secure push-backs keep larger studs safe. Our studs come in solid 14K gold, or in 14K gold-plated sterling silver for a lighter budget.

Quality

For studs, aim for near-colorless color and eye-clean clarity, so both stones look bright and match each other. Lab-grown diamonds come with a free IGI certificate. Learn more in our Lab Diamond Guide.

Shop bestselling studs, or see what can ship today in our ready-to-ship collection.

Keep reading: Lab-grown vs natural diamonds · How to care for your diamond jewelry