On the hunt for a diamond? You might be getting caught on the piece’s carat. That’s usually the first thing people ask when shopping for diamond jewelry: “How many carats is it?” While this factor does play an important part in the diamond-shopping process, it’s not the end all be all. It also might be the important characteristic you’re thinking about.
In this guide, we’re helping you understand the process of comparing lab grown diamond carat sizes, and how to discover the best carat for you (or someone else).
What is a Diamond Carat?
Most people obsess over diamond carats because they think a higher carat weight means a larger diamond, but that’s actually not the case. The term “carat” refers to a diamond’s weight, not its size. While a higher carat weight can resemble a larger diamond, it doesn’t always. There are other factors that impact a diamond’s size such as the shape and cut.
Diamond carats are measured in milligrams with one carat weighing 0.2 grams. Each carat is broken down further into 100 points, so for example, a diamond carat weighing 0.5 carat is a 50-point diamond.
Lab Diamond Carat Size on Hand: A Visual Chart
To know how a specific diamond carat weight may look on your hand, you should experiment with trying on different rings or necklaces to find a size that fits you best. Below is a chat that details how popular carat weights could look on you.
0.50 Carat vs. 0.75 Carat
Diamonds with 0.50 and 0.75 are small, but not the smallest you can find. These lower carat weights are mostly found on round cut diamonds since this shape can showcase the brilliance the best. If you’re shopping for dainty jewelry, these sizes would be the best option.
1.00 Carat vs. 1.50 Carat
Diamond jewelry ranging from 1.00 to 1.50 carat weight tends to be the most average, especially since higher carat weights come with higher price tags. These sizes are wonderful for jewelry you want to show off in your attire without being overly flashy. You can find a variety of diamond cuts and shapes with these between this weight range for jewelry that reflects your style.
2.00 Carat vs. 3.00 Carat
2.00 to 3.00 carat weights often come with larger diamonds, but not always. These carat weights can look larger on your finger, depending on the cut and shape, but they are the most expensive. Typically, a 3-carat diamond takes up 31% more surface area than a 2-carat diamond, so if you want a diamond with a larger illusion (and have the budget to accommodate it), then a 3-carat diamond would be perfect.
How Diamond Shape Affects Visual Size
Like we mentioned in the beginning of this article, a diamond’s carat weight does not always reflect its size. That mostly comes from the shape. A diamond’s shape has a lot to do with how big or small the gemstone may look since different shapes accentuate the gemstone more than others and can come with better brilliance.
For instance, shapes like pear diamonds or the emerald cut can cause the diamond to appear elongated. That transfers to your finger and gives the illusion of the diamond being bigger than it really is.
A diamond’s setting can also affect the visual size of a diamond. Halo settings can make a diamond pop and appear larger since a center diamond is cushioned by several smaller diamonds along the entire outline, like you can see in this 14k Emerald Cut Illusion Halo Setting Engagement Ring.
4 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Carat Size
Shopping for the right diamond jewelry comes with several considerations, especially since carat plays a huge factor in your purchase. As you start your diamond search, here are several factors to consider to help make your decision easier.
1. Your Budget
We’ve touched on the fact that carat plays a big role in the cost of diamond jewelry. That’s because a higher carat weight means the diamond is more rare and valuable. But don’t let that scare you. There is plenty of diamond jewelry on the market to fit a range of budgets without minimizing style and beauty. Consider how much you can realistically afford to spend on diamond jewelry and let that guide you in the carat weight.
2. Your Finger Size
Your heart might be set on the largest carat size possible for status reasons, but sadly, it might not look the best. A larger-looking diamond might appear to swallow your finger, so it’s best to try on several rings to find one that complements your fingers.
1. Your Lifestyle
Remember how we said sometimes a diamond’s shape or cut can cause the gemstone to look larger than it really is? This can be a good thing and a bad thing. If your lifestyle requires you to spend a lot of time in public or in crowds, wearing flashy diamonds might capture the wrong attention. It’s also not a good idea to wear diamonds in a more active lifestyle for the risk of losing it. So basically, you want to make an investment that fits your lifestyle so you protect you and your jewelry.
1. Your Ring Setting
Lastly, if a higher carat weight isn’t in the budget, consider looking for a ring setting that accentuates your dream design. Setting with diamond accents can beautifully impact the look of your jewelry to make up for lost value in a smaller weight.
Let Us Help You Find Your Perfect Diamond Carat Weight
Feeling overwhelmed in your search for new diamond jewelry? At Ferko’s, we understand how this can be a daunting process, especially if you’re searching for an engagement ring. Let us help you take some of the stress away!
We have a stunning collection of diamond jewelry with different carat weights. Not only do they add elegance to everyday looks, but they fit an array of budgets and lifestyles as well. We can also help you create a piece that’s totally custom to capture the true identity of you or someone special.