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What carat for a diamond? Our expert guide to making the right choice
The carat is one of the best-known criteria when it comes to buying a diamond, but it is also one of the most often misunderstood. Contrary to popular belief, carat is not a measure of size, but of weight. Here's how it works, what carat for a diamond should you choose? Here's a complete guide to understanding what a carat represents, its influence on price and visual perception, and how to make the right choice for your priorities.
What is a carat?
The term "carat" refers to the weight of one diamond. One carat is equivalent to 0.20 grams. This unit is also known as metric carats (ct) and is divided into 100 points. So a diamond of 0.50 carat corresponds to 50 points.
But be careful: the carat does not directly determine the apparent size of the diamond. Two diamonds of the same weight may look different depending on their cut and proportions. A poorly cut diamond may appear smaller than a better cut diamond of equal weight.
Here are some useful guidelines to help you visualise the weight in relation to the rendering:
0.25 carat The most refined and discreet of all colours, often chosen for earrings or fine jewellery.
0.50 carat The perfect balance between visibility and elegance.
0.70 to 0.90 carat A very popular choice for engagement rings, with a flattering visual effect without the cost of a whole carat.
1 carat A symbolic, much sought-after threshold, considered an "ideal" size for rings.
1.5 to 2 carats A spectacular, imposing diamond for a highly prestigious effect.
Which carat will suit your budget and priorities?
The price of a diamond does not increase in proportion to its weight. It is increasing exponentially A 1-carat diamond costs much more than two 0.50-carat diamonds, all other things being equal. This is due to the increasing rarity of large-weight stones.
Other criteria also influence the price: colour, clarity and above all the size (cut)which can sublimate or attenuate the brilliance of a stone, whatever its weight.
Small budget For example, it is better to opt for a diamond between 0.30 and 0.50 carats with an excellent cut and good clarity than a larger diamond of lesser quality.
Maximum visual effect A diamond slightly below a symbolic threshold (e.g. 0.90 ct instead of 1 ct) can offer an almost identical result for a much lower price.
Investment or collection Diamonds of 1 carat or more, with rare characteristics (D-F in colour, IF-VVS in clarity), are the most sought-after and retain a high value over time.
If you are looking for a diamond of one carat or more with excellent value for money, the second-hand jewellery can be a sensible alternative. You'll find certified pieces, signed by the great houses (Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Chaumet, etc.), often at much lower prices than new, while benefiting from a diamond of equivalent quality.
Choose what carat for a diamond depends on many factors: budget, personal taste, intended use and quality priorities. A well-cut diamond with well-balanced proportions and optimum brilliance is often worth more visually than a heavier but poorly proportioned stone. Take the time to compare and seek advice, and don't forget that beyond its weight, a diamond is above all a question of sparkle and emotion.
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