Carat - Size Matters
Carat is a measure of weight of the diamond and not actually the obvious "size" of the diamond, as is commonly thought. Diamonds are measured by weight with 'points' and 'carats' as the unit of meaure (1 carat = 100-points = 0.2 grams or 0.007 ounce). The more points or carats, the larger and more rare the diamond.
To truly understand carat weight, you must keep in mind that when we tend to evaluate a diamonds size from the top (bird's eye view) as it is typically already set.
This view tends to hide 2 important aspects which impact a diamond's carat weight:
- The height (or depth) of a diamond
- The angle and proportions to which a diamond is cut (cut grade)
Because of this, diamonds of equal carat weight may be of greatly differing value depending on their other characteristics. A deep cut diamond will have a larger portion of it's weight below the setting and thus look smaller than a well cut diamond of the same carat weight. Consider two people of equal weight, the first having large upper body, while the other having a larger lower body. From the waist up, the person with the larger upper body will look larger.
Similarly, it is possible to have a diamond of a lower carat weight, but higher cut grade, that appears larger than a diamond with a larger carat weight, but poor cut. The well cut diamond will return the maximum amount of light from the top, making it look large, while the poorly cut diamond has a large portion of it's weight at it's base and less light returned due to it's poor cut.
How do I Select a Carat Weight?
When determining what carat weight you are looking for, take the following into account:
- There is a price jump at the 0.50-carat and 1.0-carat weight. Consider getting something just under those thresholds (0.49 and 0.99 carat weight) to get the most for your money.The 0.01 is unnoticable.
- If she's made it clear that her heart is set on something large, consider a lower grade color and clarity.
- Start with the best cut grade that you can afford. The maximum light returned will often make the diamond look larger than it's true carat weight
- Consider a setting with smaller diamonds around a central diamond. The overall feel of the ring will be larger.
