You may have noticed a shift in the jewellery world lately. The price of gold has surged, climbing over 40% in the past year alone. This isn't just a fleeting fluctuation; it's a significant market trend that impacts everyone, from retailers to those dreaming of their perfect engagement ring. At Morgan & Co., we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge, so let's delve into the key factors driving this gold price hike and how we can help you navigate it.

Why the Golden Surge?

1. Economic Uncertainty:

   • Gold has always been a safe haven during financial storms. Current inflationary pressures, geopolitical tensions, and fluctuating currencies have led to a surge in gold investment.
   • Additionally, US policy changes and tariffs have weakened the dollar, indirectly pushing gold prices higher.
     
     

2. Supply Chain Disruptions:

   • Mining operations face ongoing challenges, including labor shortages and logistical hurdles, reducing the gold supply and driving up prices.
     
     

3. Central Bank Demand:

   • Central banks, notably in China and Russia, are strategically increasing their gold reserves, limiting global availability and adding to the price pressure.
     
     

4. Weakening US Dollar:

   • Since gold is priced in USD, a weaker dollar translates to higher gold prices in international markets.

Navigating the Golden Landscape with Morgan & Co

We understand that these market shifts can be daunting, especially when planning a significant purchase like an engagement ring. At Morgan & Co., we're committed to transparency and providing exceptional value. Here's how we help you achieve your dream ring without compromising on quality:

• Best Price, From the Start: We believe in honest pricing, offering the best possible value from the very beginning. No hidden fees or inflated costs.
• Budget-Conscious Design: We work closely with you to understand your budget and design preferences. If a three-stone ring pushes you past your comfort zone, we might suggest a stunning solitaire that maximises brilliance within your price range.
• Expert Stone Sourcing: Our extensive network allows us to source diamonds and coloured stones that meet your specific requirements and budget. We'll guide you on how to best allocate your resources, ensuring you get the most sparkle for your investment.
• Personalised, Guided Journey: We offer a truly bespoke experience, taking you on a personalised journey tailored to your needs. This means attentive listening, expert advice, and a ring that perfectly reflects your unique love story.

How We Help You Make Smart Choices:

• Understanding the Market: We keep you informed about current gold prices and market trends, so you can make informed decisions.
• Alternative Options: We explore various options, such as using different gold carats or alternative gemstones, to help you stay within your budget.
• Prioritising Quality: We never compromise on quality. Even when working within a budget, we ensure your ring is crafted with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Why the Setting Matters Just as Much as the Stone

While the diamond undeniably takes centre stage, the engagement ring setting is equally crucial for both the stone's brilliance and the ring's longevity. Think of it as the foundation upon which your precious gem rests. The dimensions and design of the gold, the precision of the craftsmanship, and the specific alloys used to create the gold are all vital considerations. A well-crafted setting not only enhances the diamond's sparkle by allowing optimal light reflection but also ensures the ring's durability for years to come. The right setting provides security, comfort, and aesthetic balance, transforming a beautiful stone into a truly breathtaking piece of jewellery.

Your Dream Ring, Within Reach

Despite the rising gold prices, your dream engagement ring is still achievable. At Morgan & Co., we're dedicated to helping you create a ring that's not only beautiful but also within your budget. Our personalised service, expert guidance, and commitment to transparency ensure you'll have a memorable and stress-free experience.

Let us help you navigate the golden landscape and create a symbol of your love that shines as brightly as your future together. Book your free consultation to discuss your engagement ring. 

Choosing the perfect diamond size can feel overwhelming, especially with so many factors to consider—but it doesn’t have to be. This guide will walk you through what truly matters when selecting the diamond that will mark one of the most meaningful moments of your life.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Perfect Diamond Size

Selecting a diamond is a deeply personal experience. It’s not just about choosing something beautiful, it’s about choosing something right for you or your partner. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Average Diamond Sizes in Australia

To start, let’s break down carat weight. One carat equals 200 milligrams, but visually, a two-carat diamond does not look twice as large as a one-carat. This is because size perception is influenced by proportion, cut, and surface area, not only weight.

In Australia, the average engagement ring features a diamond between .90ct and 1.5ct fo a natural diamond and between 1.8 and 3.00 carats for a lab grown diamond. But at Morgan & Co, we don’t believe in rules or trends dictating your choice. Your ring should reflect your taste, lifestyle, and values.

For personalised guidance, we always recommend booking a complimentary consultation at our Buderim studio.

2. How Finger Size Influences Perception

Your partner’s hand and finger shape can make a diamond appear larger or smaller:

• Petite fingers may suit a slightly smaller stone

• Fuller fingers may balance a larger diamond beautifully

• Slender fingers often look elongated with oval or marquise cuts

• Round cuts may appear more proportional on broader fingers

Trying on different styles is the best way to get a sense of what feels right. Solitaire designs remain popular because they flatter every hand shape and allow the centre stone to shine.

3. Lifestyle Considerations

An engagement ring is worn every day, so lifestyle matters:

• Active jobs or hands-on hobbies may suit smaller or lower-profile stones

• Office-based lifestyles allow for larger, more elevated designs

• Those who love jewellery may naturally gravitate toward larger diamonds

Practicality is just as important as aesthetics when choosing a ring you’ll wear forever.

4. Budget Matters (But Bigger Isn’t Always Better)

Budget is a key factor, but it shouldn’t be stressful. If you're opting for a natural diamond, a smaller, high-quality diamond will always look more beautiful than a larger, poorly cut stone.

Currently, natural diamonds between .90ct and 1.20ct are increasingly popular for their minimal, elegant appeal and excellent value. There are stunning options starting from $14,000 for a natural diamond of reasonable quality. 

As for lab grown diamonds, you're more free to increase your diamond size and quality because their starting prices are much lower than a natural diamond.

At Morgan & Co, we work closely within your budget to create a ring that feels luxurious, personalised and meaningful, without compromising on quality.

How Diamond Cuts and Shapes Affect Perceived Size

Carat weight is only one part of the equation.
Cut and shape can dramatically influence how large a diamond looks.

1. Brilliant (Round) Cut

The most classic and sparkly, thanks to its 58 facets. Because so much weight goes into creating brilliance and symmetry, round diamonds can appear slightly smaller than other shapes of the same carat weight.

2. Oval & Marquise Cuts

Their elongated silhouettes make them appear larger than round diamonds of the same weight, while also flattering the finger by adding length.

3. Princess & Cushion Cuts

Square or softly square, these cuts offer excellent surface area and often look bigger when viewed from above.

4. Pear Cut

Romantic and unique, its teardrop shape gives a stunning elongated look, enhancing the perception of size even in smaller carat weights.

We offer all of these shapes and more at Morgan & Co—whether you visit us in our Sunshine Coast studio or book a virtual consultation.

Why Diamond Quality Matters More Than Size

A diamond’s beauty is influenced by the 4Cs: Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat Weight.

Cut determines brilliance.
Colour affects purity and value.
Clarity influences sparkle and transparency.

A high-quality diamond will look more radiant—and sometimes even larger—than a bigger diamond of lower clarity or poorer cut.

How Settings Influence the Appearance of Size

The setting you choose can dramatically change how large or small your diamond appears:

1. Solitaire Setting

Minimal and timeless.
Allows the diamond to take full visual focus, often making smaller stones appear larger.

2. Halo Setting

Adds a ring of tiny diamonds around the centre stone, increasing sparkle and creating the effect of a larger diamond.

3. Bezel Setting

A metal rim surrounds the stone for maximum protection.
This can make the diamond appear slightly smaller because less light enters the stone.

4. Prong Setting

Elevates the diamond to capture light from every angle.
Makes even modest-sized diamonds appear brilliant and more substantial.

5. Pavé Setting

Small diamonds set along the band amplify sparkle and boost the overall luxurious feel.

6. Channel Setting

Creates a seamless row of diamonds along the band, balancing elegance with practicality.

We guide you through all these setting styles during your appointment so you can confidently choose the perfect ring.

Conclusion

Choosing the right diamond size involves more than following trends or aiming for a certain carat weight. Consider your partner’s finger shape, lifestyle, personal style, and—most importantly—what will feel meaningful and special for the two of you.

Whether you choose a handcrafted solitaire or a custom Morgan & Co design, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Each piece is crafted with love on the Sunshine Coast using ethically sourced diamonds and high-quality precious metals.

Your dream engagement ring is waiting and we’d be honoured to help you create it. Book your complementary consultation with our team at our Sunshine Coast studio. 

With Love,
Morgan xo

Ready to discover our top 5 engagement rings for 2023? 

These brilliant pieces are set to be a dazzling spectacle of brilliance and style.

The world of bridal jewellery is ever-evolving, with trends shifting as quickly as the seasons themselves.

Yet amidst this constant change, there's something uniquely captivating about engagement rings - they embody timeless elegance while still capturing the zeitgeist of contemporary design.

If you're seeking insight into what makes these top 5 engagement rings so special, you've come to the right place!