Diamond Carat Guide

What Is Carat Weight?

Carat is the unit used to measure a diamond’s weight. One carat equals 0.2 grams. Carat affects how big a diamond looks, but it isn’t the only factor: cut, shape and setting play a big part too.

Does a Higher Carat Always Look Bigger?

Not necessarily. A well-cut 0.90ct diamond can look just as large as a poorly cut 1.00ct stone, and often sparkles more. Some shapes, like oval and marquise, also look larger than others at the same carat weight.

Carat Weight and Price

Price rises much faster than carat weight. For example:

• a 0.90ct diamond can cost noticeably less than a 1.00ct
• “magic weights” (0.50ct, 1.00ct, 1.50ct) often carry a price premium

The Real Gem tip: consider a weight just under a milestone, such as 0.95ct, for better value with no visible difference in size.

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