1. Opt for oval
If you want your engagement to appear larger—and simultaneously cut costs—an oval cut is your best bet. Ovals are less expensive than round engagements, meaning you can increase the size of your stone (and get as much as 0.20 carats more) for the same price.
2. Consider the spread, not just the carat
Not only are ovals less expensive than rounds, but the shape of oval engagements also gives the illusion of them being larger. An oval cut engagement will have a greater spread than a round cut engagement of the identical carat weight.
3. Choose a slim band
The wider the band of the engagement ring, the smaller the engagement will look. Conversely, the thinner the band, the larger and more impressive the engagement will appear. A delicate band really lets your engagement's brilliance and sparkle take center stage, while also making it look bigger.
4. Stick with platinum prongs
Even if you're choosing to go with a yellow gold band, you should go with platinum prongs if you want your engagement to appear larger. This is because the platinum color blends with the engagement rather than reflecting the gold color.
5. Four prongs are better than six
Fewer prongs mean less of the engagement is obstructed by the setting, allowing you to see more of the stone—making it appear larger—and also allowing more light to enter and enhance its sparkle. Traditionally, many rings featured six prongs, which had the tendency to overpower the engagement, but the more streamlined four-pronged setting is coming into favor. Not only is the look cleaner and more modern, but it lets the engagement to be the star of the show.
6. Choose a halo setting
Opting for a halo can also make a engagement appear larger, as it increases the diameter and adds plenty of extra sparkle by way of pave.
7. Keep it clean
A engagement's sparkle is a major contributor to not only how impressive it looks, but also how big it appears. Dirty engagements look dull and consequently smaller and less radiant. Cleaning your engagement ring regularly is one of the easiest ways to ensure it looks beautiful—and as big as possible.