Diamond Carat Weight
Carat is the unit of measurement used to classify the weight of a diamond. Most diamond shoppers have heard this term, but many do not understand exactly how it is applied.
A carat is often thought of as the size of a diamond, but the weight of a diamond alone may not be a true reflection of its size. Other factors including a diamond’s cut grade and the distance across the top of the stone must be considered in order to assess true diamond size.
Understanding Carat Weight
Diamond Carat/Size Comparison
The term carat was derived from the use of carob seeds in ancient times. These small seeds were used on balancing scales because it was easy to pick seeds of uniform weight. Though this process was abandoned long ago, its legacy endures in the carat. One carat equals 200 milligrams, or 0.2 grams. Carats are also expressed in points with 100 points equal to 1 carat. When diamonds are less than 1 carat, a range of points may be used.
The carat weight of a diamond has a major influence on the value and cost of the diamond. In order to create a diamond, a set of very specific conditions must be met. These conditions are rare. When diamonds do form, they are typically smaller in size. Larger diamonds are scarce (and more in demand), and therefore, they have more value. In fact, the value of a diamond rises sharply as its size increases.
The term carat total weight is used to describe the total weight of all of the diamonds in a piece of jewelry. For example, a ring with five 0.25 carat diamonds would have a carat total weight of 1.25 carats. It’s important to note, however, a single large diamond is almost always worth more than multiple smaller diamonds totaling the same weight. So, a 1.25 carat diamond solitaire ring will usually cost more than a ring with similar, smaller diamonds with a carat total weight of 1.25 carats.
Choosing What Carat Weight to Buy
It is difficult to distinguish the carat weight of a diamond from looking at it with the naked eye, particularly if you look at the diamond from above. As the carat weight increases, the diameter and the depth of the diamond will also increase. Consequently, a 1 carat diamond will not necessarily look twice the size of a 0.50 carat diamond. Variations in shape and cut can also make diamonds with similar carat weight appear very different in size. It’s important to consider all of the qualities of a diamond before making a purchase.
When choosing what carat weight to buy, consider your budget first. Ultimately, only you can decide how much you can afford and which qualities are the most important to you. When comparing diamonds, it’s a good idea to compare like qualities, however. Diamonds of the same carat size that have sharp differences in cut, clarity and colour may vary in price considerably.