Round Diamonds
The most important factors diamond shoppers should consider are based on the ‘Four Cs’. Those are the cut, color, clarity, and the carat weight. Among them, the diamond carat weight is the easiest one to understand. Read on to find out about the basic information and even greater tips about the diamond carat weight.
Carat Weight History
The term ‘Carat’ origins are from the ancient Greek word ‘keration’ that means ‘fruit of the carob’. Diamond carat weight is measured in carats since carob fruit was known to be uniform in weight and size. The carat (CT) became the official unit of weight for diamonds in 1907 at the fourth General Conference on Weights and Measures. One carat equals 200 milligrams (0.2 grams).
When shopping for a diamond, these next related issues should be considered with regards to carat weight:
· Size
· Shape
· Cut quality
· Pricing
· Proportions of the diamond to the wearer
· Budget
Size
Even if diamonds have an identical shape and weight, they don’t necessarily have the same size. Diamond carat size is determined by how it is cut (dimensions) and its depth. A diamond that has less depth has a larger diameter (size) and vice versa. Doubling diamond carat weight does not double size since the diamond is larger in both diameter and depth.
Shape
Each shape has a unique look. Diamonds with the same weight but are cut to different shapes will have different sizes (diameter and depth), so some shapes appear to be “larger” than others. Preference of shape is individual. Most diamonds are cut to “Round” shape, but many shoppers prefer other shapes.
Cut Quality
Cut quality greatly influences appearance. A well cut diamond looks like a “Fireball” and seems larger because weight and dimensional size are optimal and correlate. The worth of a well cut diamond is also higher because of the amazing difference with other ordinary looking diamonds.
Pricing
The Rapaport Diamond List sets the diamond prices. Weight has the largest impact over price and is followed by clarity, color, and cut quality. Larger diamonds are rarer and cost more than smaller ones when clarity, color and cut are equal. Doubling weight quadruples total cost (not price per carat). Sometimes larger diamonds are cut to retain a higher weight and price; this will compromise the cut quality and appearance.
Round and fancy shapes are priced separately. Round diamonds cost more because demand is higher – 65% of the market. Cutting into a round shape causes loss of more material in comparison to any other shape.
Diamond Carat weight main classes are:
· 0.50-0.69CT
· 0.70-0.89CT
· 0.90-0.99CT
· 1.00-1.49CT
· 1.50-1.99CT
· 2.00-2.99CT
· 3.00-3.99CT
· 4.00-4.99CT
· 5.00-9.99CT
· 10.00 CT and up
Price differs by percentage between weight classes, so the best value diamonds are close to the upper limit of the weight class below your target. For example, a 0.94 Carat diamond will look very similar to 1.00 Carat diamond but will cost between 8 – 20% less (when color, clarity and cut are the same).
Proportion
Bigger diamonds aren’t necessarily better. Maintaining the right proportion between diamond and wearer is important.
Budget
Larger diamonds are more expensive so you have to consider this when buying one. But rest in the fact that you can find a great looking diamond within your budget range.
More Diamond Carat Weight Tips:
- “Total weight” is different from carat weight since it represents the total weight of diamonds in a piece of jewelry. For example, a pendant with 3 set diamonds will have a total weight of 1.23 and that the weight of all three diamonds is 1.23 Carats.
- When size is important, one should compromise on clarity or color but not the cut quality – since the cut quality determines the diamond looks and sparkle.
- Choosing one size category smaller can save you money.
After long years in the diamond business I want to share my knowledge. My main aim is to assist you buying better diamond smarter and cheaper.
Dan Greenberg
diamonds geek
what is the formula to measure diamond weight in carats for round diamond?
for other diamonds?
carats measure purity not weight.
Round Diamond Wedding Ring Set In Split Band Trellis Set ENS1753.wmv
