Diamond carat weight buying guide
Updated: Mar 12, 2023
What is diamond carat weight?
The carat (ct) is a unit of weight used to measure diamonds and other gemstones. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams or 200 milligrams. Diamond carat weight is simply the weight of a diamond measured in carats.
It's important to note that carat weight does not directly correspond to the size of a diamond. While larger diamonds are typically heavier and have a higher carat weight, the carat weight alone does not provide information about a diamond's dimensions, shape, or overall appearance.
Which diamond carat weight should I buy?
Two diamonds with the same carat weight may have different values depending on other factors such as colour, clarity, and cut. For example, a one-carat diamond with high colour and clarity ratings will be more costly than a one-carat diamond with lower ratings. So it's about finding a balance of carat weight as well as the other specifications that you are comfortable with - carat weight is usually the main determinant of diamond price. The most important thing with any purchase is being comfortable with what you are spending - your partner will love anything that you give her. Fancy shape diamonds in particular can be cut to many different proportions and you can often find lower carat weight diamonds that are visually bigger. For example you could find a 1.8ct diamond that has bigger dimensions than a 2ct that has been cut deep. When a diamond is being cut from a rough diamond into a polished diamond, the cutter often prioritises hitting a target weight rather than the overall look of a stone - for example cutting a stone slightly deeper to ensure it hits that “2ct” mark where they can charge a premium for the stone.
Getting more carat weight
If you are looking to achieve a bigger carat weight within your budget, look to lower the other factors such as colour or clarity. Or consider a lab grown diamond - they are becoming increasingly popular and have been reported to make up a majority of engagement ring purchases in many jewellers as of 2023.
