Here we’ll explain how to choose the right carat weight of diamond to fit your needs and your budget. Find out what carat weight is best for you.

About Carat Weight

A carat is a measure of weight used to describe diamonds. A carat is not a true measure of size because different diamond cuts provide different volumes and shapes. One carat is the equivalent of 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams. Loose diamonds can range anywhere from a 1/4-carat weight to a 5-carat weight. Large gems are discovered much less frequently than small ones when diamonds are mined, thus making large diamonds much more valuable. Diamond prices rise exponentially with carat weight, in fact. Keep in mind that the value of loose diamonds is not based on carat weight alone. A diamond’s value is equally influenced by cut, color, and clarity. In other words, bigger does not always mean better.

Finding the Right Size

To select the right carat weight of your diamond, you have to consider your style, the size of the finger for which it is intended, the size of the setting, and your budget. Here are some tips to help you pick out loose diamonds with the right carat weight.

• If you have a strict budget, explore all possible avenues. You will probably find that there is a wide selection of carat weights and qualities available within your price range.


• If the person for whom the diamond is intended is very active or unused to wearing diamond jewelry, the diamond may get bumped or nicked against objects. In this case, you might consider a smaller carat weight or a setting that will protect the stone from getting knocked against objects.


• Diamonds will appear larger on small fingers. For instance, a 1-carat diamond will appear much bigger on a size 4 finger than a size 8.


• If you have already selected a setting, be sure to choose a diamond that fits it. Find out the diamond size specifications of your ring to make sure you choose a loose diamond that will fit the setting properly. You can also ask a jewelry consultant for assistance.


• If a large carat weight is your priority but you’re on a tight budget, consider loose diamonds with a decent cut, SI1-SI2 clarity, and an I or J color grade. This will help you maximize the carat weight of your diamond without exceeding your budget.