Diamond Carat
What Is A Diamond Carat?
Carat (ct) is a unique unit of weight measurement used to weigh diamonds and gemstones. Despite being a weight measurement, carat weight is often confused with the visual size of the diamond. The size of a diamond is determined by its shape and weight, and therefore the size of different gemstones can vary. For example, a round diamond of 1.00 ct measures around 6.5 mm, while a round sapphire of 1.00 ct measures around 16.0 mm.
This difference in size is due to the variation in gemstones. Additionally, the total carat weight (t.c.w) determines the total weight of all the gemstones and diamonds in a piece of jewelry. For instance, the weight of diamond solitaire earrings will be quoted in the total carat weight of the diamonds in both earrings.
How does the price of a diamond change with its carat weight?
The price of a diamond generally increases with its carat weight. This is because larger diamonds are rarer and more difficult to find, which makes them more valuable. However, the price of a diamond is not solely determined by its carat weight. Other factors, such as the cut, color, and clarity of the diamond, also affect its value. A higher carat weight does not necessarily mean a higher value if the diamond has poor cut, color, and clarity. Additionally, the price per carat of a diamond usually increases as the carat weight increases. This means that a two-carat diamond will not simply be twice the price of a one-carat diamond of similar quality, but it will be more expensive per carat.
History Of Diamond Carat
The history of diamond carat can be traced back to ancient times when diamonds were first discovered and used for jewelry. The carob seed, which was widely used as a standard of measurement for weighing small objects, was used as a reference for the weight of diamonds. One carob seed was considered to be equal to one carat, which is equivalent to 0.2 grams or 0.007 ounces.
Over time, the measurement of diamonds became more precise, and the carat weight was standardized. In 1913, the International Metric Carat was adopted as the standard unit of weight for diamonds and other gemstones. One metric carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams or 0.007 ounces.
Diamond Carat Size Chart
This chart illustrates the appearance of diamonds of different carat weights and shapes when viewed from the top down. Your diamond measurements may differ in length/width ratio, table, and depth from the chart.