Upgrading to a larger diamond is mainly about money, structure, and style. And if you’re thinking about doing it, you’re not alone. The average ring size has gone up. It now sits around 1.45 carats, with lab-grown stones averaging 1.53 carats in 2024. More people want bigger stones. Not because they’re trying to show off. But because more options make it easier.
What It Might Cost You
The biggest cost? The diamond itself. A natural 2-carat diamond ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on cut, clarity, and color. But lab-grown diamonds can be up to 80% cheaper. That same 2-carat might be $3,000 or less.
Redesigning your setting? That adds more dollars. Simple changes like adjusting the prongs may cost around $400. Full setting overhauls—think halo additions or three-stone redesigns—can run up to $2,000.
Switching from natural to lab-grown allows size upgrades that would be too expensive otherwise. People are going from 1 carat to 3 carats without doubling their budget.
Settings Matter. So Does Shape.
Solitaire bands are easier to tweak. Their structure handles bigger stones without needing a new base. But more complex setups like three-stone rings or intricate halos may need more work. Some designs can’t handle bigger stones at all.
Metal colors also make a difference. Switching to yellow or rose gold gives better contrast, which can make the stone stand out more.
No Shame in the Size Game
Some cuts give more surface for less weight. Oval, pear, or marquise shapes can look much bigger than a round stone at the same carat. So when upgrading, switching to one of these can stretch your budget without stretching the ring. Round cuts are classic, but they’re also the most expensive per carat.
For bolder looks, elongated shapes like radiant or emerald work well. Emerald cut diamond rings give a longer, cleaner look and often appear larger due to their step-cut design. They don’t hide flaws like brilliant cuts, but they show off clarity and precision like nothing else.
Trade It In or Start Fresh?
Many stores offer trade-in options with strict rules. At Tiffany, your new diamond must cost twice as much to get full credit for your last one. Zales has a similar policy—they credit you if your upgrade is double in value.
James Allen gives full credit if your new diamond is double the price of the original—you’ll need the grading report to prove its attributes. VRAI offers 100% credit on lab-grown stones over 0.30ct, but only if your new purchase is at least 1.5 times more expensive.
Social Media Isn’t Quiet About It
Instagram and TikTok have a strong hold on ring preferences. Around 52% of shoppers now find their ring inspo from social posts. Bigger diamonds? Yes. Halo settings? Also yes. Unique shapes like toi et moi? Definitely.
Quick decisions are also tied to social platforms. About 65% of buyers act faster after seeing rings on social feeds. That explains the move toward flashier upgrades.
People Are Spending, Even With Debt
The average engagement ring budget is now $8,580 in 2025. However, 70% of couples buying rings also have existing debt. It shows that bigger stones are still a priority, but people are looking for ways to stretch their money. Lab-grown diamonds help them do it.
Cut Still Matters
Size is about carats. Shine is about cut. A well-cut 1.5-carat stone can sparkle circles around a poorly cut 2.5-carat one.
If the upgrade is all about shine, don’t get caught up only in weight. Clarity and cut still carry value. Around 35% of people upgrading rings still put clarity over carat, choosing VVS or ideal cuts.
Tips That Could Save You Headaches
Not every ring can hold a bigger diamond. Some settings aren’t built for it. If your original ring has a narrow band or intricate design, you may need a full reset.
Adding a halo can make your diamond appear 30% larger, even without increasing the carat. That’s another budget-friendly trick.
Selling your original diamond helps cover about 20–40% of the cost of your new one, especially if it’s natural.
Upgrades often happen during anniversaries. The five-year or ten-year mark tends to be common. And it makes sense—finances are usually in a better place by then.
Last Word
Don’t play size wars with strangers on the internet. Upgrade your ring if it fits your budget, your taste, and your long-term plans. Use smart design ideas. Choose a cut that favors the look you want. Compare prices. Look into trade-ins. And ask questions—lots of them.
Big diamonds don’t equal big love. And you don’t need validation from TikTok to love your ring. But if you’re ready for more sparkle, there’s a smart way to do it.
