Diamond Carat

What is a Diamond Carat?

The term carat is often misunderstood. It refers to a diamond's weight, not its size. Another misperception is that a larger carat weight is always better than a smaller carat weight. While it’s true that a big rock can be a status symbol (here’s looking at you, Hollywood), carat weight is not related to sparkle. Beautiful sparkle is the result of a well-crafted cut. In fact, a high carat weight diamond with a poor cut may look smaller than a diamond with a smaller carat weight and a very good cut.

Diamond Carat Price

Diamonds with higher carat weights are cut from larger rough crystals that are harder to source than small crystals. So, the relationship between carat weight and price depends on the rarity or availability of a rough crystal. Carat price is also a function of finding rough crystals with desirable color, and internal and external characteristics that will positively influence clarity when the diamond is cut. To learn more about all of the factors to consider when choosing the best diamond carat weight for you, read these tips from our diamond experts.

find your diamond

The Brief History of Diamond Carat

The term carat comes from the ancient method of weighing precious metal and stones against the seeds of the carob tree—which were considered to be even in weight. It wasn’t until 1907, at the Fourth General Conference on Weights and Measures, when it was agreed upon that one diamond carat would be equal to 200 mg, or .2 grams, of a diamond. Carats can also be measured in points; 100 points equals a full carat.

4 Things to Know About Carat

1. “Buy shy” to save money. Select a carat weight slightly below the whole and half-carat marks. For example, instead of a 2.00 carat diamond, consider buying a 1.90 carat weight. This will save a considerable amount of money, and the slight difference will never be noticed.
2. Splurge on cut. This is the most important factor because it maximizes sparkle. Even a high-carat diamond with excellent color and clarity can appear lifeless and dull if the cut is poor.
3. Fancy shapes cost less per carat. The most important thing to realize about fancy-shaped diamonds is that they are generally less expensive than an equivalent round diamond. Additionally, fancy shapes can appear larger than their actual diamond carat weight size, especially when placed in a halo setting.
4. Keep ring size in mind. The smaller the finger, the larger the diamond will appear. A 1.50 carat diamond solitaire looks larger on a size 6 finger than a size 8.

Carat Has the Biggest Effect on Price

You can thank movies, mass media, and advertising for the emphasis that people put on carat in relation to diamond quality. Carat weight has become an indication of a person’s status and wealth, but when it comes to diamonds, bigger is definitely not always better. Instead, focus on a balance of the 4Cs: cut, clarity, color, and carat to make a smart purchase.

Diamond Carat Size Chart

A Few Additional Carat Tips Before You Buy a Diamond

1. Certain settings can make a diamond appear larger. A very popular setting to achieve this effect is the halo. This setting has a ring of small diamonds around the center stone. The ratio of the small to large diamonds skews the perspective in your favor, making the center diamond seem larger.
2. Band size affects the look of a diamond’s carat. Selecting a thin band creates a perspective that makes the center stone appear larger. A popular band to achieve this is the pavé, which features small diamonds embedded in the band.
3. Carat Total Weight (CTTW). Total carat weight is the measurement of all the diamonds in any given piece combined. So, be sure to inquire about the weights of the individual diamonds in any piece that you are buying.

find your diamond