Diamond Carat Guide

Discover the details of carats: the unit of measurement used to describe diamond weight.

The 4 Cs of Diamonds

Cut

The artistry of proportion and polish. A masterful cut unlocks a diamond's fire and scintillation—its unmistakable sparkle.

Colour

The rarest diamonds are icy and colorless, radiating pure light. Subtle warmth or hue adds character and individuality.

Clarity

Nature's signature. Fewer internal marks mean greater rarity and a crystal-clear allure.

Carat

A measure of presence. Carat weight gives a diamond its stature—timeless, bold, and unforgettable.

Carat Definition: What Is a Carat?

The carat is the universal unit of measurement for diamond weight, not size. One carat equals exactly 0.2 grams—about the weight of a paperclip. This standard allows buyers and sellers to compare diamonds fairly across the world.

The word "carat" comes from carob seeds, which were historically used as counterweights on balance scales due to their uniform size. In 1913, the carat was standardized internationally, ensuring consistency in diamond trading.

It's important not to confuse carat (diamond weight) with karat (gold purity). While carat affects a diamond's value, it's just one of the 4Cs that determine overall quality and beauty.

Diamond Carat vs. Diamond Size

A diamond's carat weight is not the same as its physical size. Two diamonds with identical carat weights can appear very different depending on their cut, shape, and proportions.

For example, a well-cut round diamond may look larger than a poorly cut one of the same carat weight. Shallow or deep cuts can hide or exaggerate a diamond's face-up size. Always consider both carat and cut when evaluating a diamond's appearance.

Remember: carat weight is just one factor. The overall beauty and presence of a diamond depend on how all the 4Cs work together.

Diamond Size Chart

Understanding how carat weight translates to actual size can help you choose the perfect diamond. Our comprehensive size chart shows you exactly what to expect with different carat weights and shapes.

Use our interactive chart to compare different shapes and carat weights side by side. This visual reference helps you make an informed decision based on your preferences and budget.

Actual Carat Size on Hand

Seeing a diamond's carat weight on a chart is helpful, but nothing compares to viewing it on a hand. Finger size, ring style, and setting can all influence how large or small a diamond appears when worn.

Try on different carat weights and ring styles to find the look that feels right for you. Remember, a slightly smaller diamond with an excellent cut can appear more brilliant and impressive than a larger, poorly cut stone.

How to Make a Diamond Look Bigger

There are several smart strategies to maximize your diamond's visual impact. Choose halo settings that surround your center stone with smaller diamonds, creating the illusion of greater size and brilliance.

Delicate band styles make the center diamond appear larger by comparison. Lab-grown diamonds offer exceptional value, allowing you to choose a larger carat weight within your budget.

Regular cleaning keeps your diamond sparkling at its brightest, ensuring maximum visual impact regardless of carat weight.