CARAT DIAMONDS

The diamond carat weight measures a diamond’s apparent size. To put it simply, diamond carat weight measures how much a diamond weighs. A metric “carat” is defined as 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams. Each carat is subdivided into 100 ‘points.’ This allows very precise measurements to the hundredth decimal place. When comparing similar diamonds try to look at the measurements. Some diamonds with similar weights can vary significantly in measurements. 

All else being equal, diamond price increases with diamond carat weight because larger diamonds are rarer and more desirable. However, two diamonds of equal carat weight can have very different values (and prices) depending on three other factors of the diamond 4Cs: Color, Clarity, and Cut. Now that you know what carat means, it’s also important to remember that a diamond’s value is determined using all of the 4Cs, and not just carat weight. 

What Does Carat Actually Measure?

Carat refers specifically to weight, not size. While heavier diamonds are often larger, two diamonds of the same carat can appear different in size depending on how they are cut. A poorly cut diamond may retain more weight in its depth, while a well-cut diamond may appear larger from above, even with the same carat weight.

How Carat Affects Diamond Pricing

Carat weight is one of the most significant factors in a diamond’s price. The price doesn’t rise linearly—it often increases sharply at popular thresholds like 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0 carats. That means a 0.99 carat diamond can be significantly less expensive than a 1.00 carat, despite looking nearly identical in size.

Diamond Pricing Per Carat

As carat increases, so does the price per carat. This reflects the rarity of larger diamonds. For example:

• A 0.50 ct diamond may cost $1,500 per carat

• A 1.00 ct diamond may cost $6,000 per carat

• A 2.00 ct diamond may cost $15,000 per carat

These are not just weight increases—they’re reflections of scarcity and market demand.

Carat Weight vs. Visual Impact

Carat alone doesn’t tell the full story. A diamond’s cut quality can dramatically impact how big it appears. A well-cut 0.90 carat diamond might visually compete with a poorly cut 1.00 carat. That’s why it’s important to consider both carat and cut when evaluating overall appearance.

Why Choose Certified Diamonds?

At HONN, we only offer GIA-certified diamonds over 0.3 carats. This ensures accurate carat grading and full transparency in what you're buying. GIA certification verifies all 4Cs—carat, color, clarity, and cut—giving you confidence in your diamond’s value and origin.