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Understanding Diamond Weights: A Complete Guide Before You Buy. Diamonds are among the most precious and desired gemstones in the world. When it comes to evaluating a diamond, carat weight plays a major role in determining its value and price. But what exactly does “carat” mean? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about diamond weights, their history, and essential buying tips.
What Is a Carat in Diamonds?
The term carat (ct) refers to the weight of a diamond. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams, or 0.2 grams. So when you hear someone say a diamond is “one carat,” it means the stone weighs exactly 200 milligrams.
The Origin of the Term “Carat”
The word “carat” comes from the carob seed, a naturally consistent-weight seed from the Mediterranean region. In ancient times, gem traders used carob seeds as a reference to weigh precious stones, including diamonds. If a diamond weighed the same as one carob seed, it was classified as one carat.
However, in the Far East, where carob trees do not grow, traders used grains of rice instead. A diamond that weighed the same as four grains of rice was considered one carat. That’s why you might hear a diamond being referred to as “four grains” — a traditional equivalent of one carat.
Most Diamonds Sold Are Less Than One Carat
Even though the one-carat diamond is often viewed as the benchmark, the reality is that most diamonds sold today weigh around 1/3 of a carat. These smaller diamonds are more affordable but still offer impressive sparkle and elegance, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and everyday jewelry.
Be Cautious with CTW (Carat Total Weight)
When shopping for diamond jewelry that is already set or mounted, it’s important to understand the term CTW (Carat Total Weight). This number represents the combined total weight of all diamonds in the piece, not the weight of a single stone.
For example, a ring with three small diamonds might be labeled as “1.00 CTW,” meaning all three diamonds combined weigh one carat. This doesn’t mean the center diamond is one carat. Always ask the jeweler for the individual carat weight of the main stone so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Smart Tips for Buying Diamonds
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Know the 4 Cs: Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut all affect a diamond’s value and appearance.
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Ask for Certification: Reputable diamonds often come with certificates from trusted gemological labs like GIA or IGI.
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Compare Before You Commit: Don’t rush your purchase. Compare prices, quality, and certifications from different retailers.
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Clarify the CTW: Especially for multi-stone jewelry, make sure you understand the weight of each individual diamond, not just the total.
Conclusion
Knowing how diamond weight works — and what a carat truly means — empowers you to make informed decisions when buying diamond jewelry. Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring or a meaningful gift, understanding CTW, the history of carat, and asking the right questions will help you get the best value for your money.
Diamonds are a beautiful investment, so make sure you’re not just dazzled by the sparkle — be smart about the specs, too!
