Attempting to effectively judge diamond prices per carat can be difficult for the uninitiated buyer. Carat weight is the individual factor that has the greatest influence on diamond prices. Simply put, when one diamond is much larger than another, the larger diamond will always be substantially more expensive, even if the smaller diamond is otherwise higher in quality.
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That being said, other factors, including cut, clarity, and color can also have a major impact on diamond prices. Here are some figures that should give you a rough idea as to what you should expect in terms of diamond prices per carat.
Diamond Prices Per Carat – By Cut
The cut grade refers to how well the diamond has been cut into its particular shape. The better the cut of a diamond is, the better the diamond will be when it comes to retaining and reflecting light, and the result is that the overall appearance of the diamond is improved in comparison to that of a diamond with a lower quality cut.
From a value perspective, cut grades of “Very Good” or “Good” tend to be the best, as they are noticeably less expensive than higher cut grades, while the aesthetic impact on the diamond relative to the higher grades is minimal. Here are some typical diamond prices per carat for diamonds in this cut grade range (assuming the other grades are in the middle range).
Carats Price
0.25 $500
0.50 $800-1,200
1.00 $4,000-5,000
1.50 $7,000-10,000
Diamond Prices Per Carat – By Clarity
The clarity grade has the second most profound impact on diamond prices, next to carats. Diamonds with flawless clarity grades are extremely rare and, therefore, extremely expensive. Depending on the shape of the diamond and the size of its facets, potential flaws within the diamond may be more or less likely to be exposed to the naked eye. With the round brilliant or other diamond shapes with small facets, buyers can find great value in the clarity grade range of SI1 or SI2, as the small facets will minimize the visual impact of any flaws that may be present.
Here are some diamond prices per carat with the clarity grade at SI1.
Carats Price
0.25 $500
0.50 $1000-1,300
1.00 $4,000-5,200
1.50 $10,000-12,500
Diamond Prices Per Carat – By Color
The color grade refers to how much coloration is present within the diamond. The “D” grade indicates that the diamond is completely colorless, while around the “J” grade and lower, some coloration may be visible to the naked eye. The best combination of value and appearance can usually be found in diamonds with a color grade of G, H, or I. Here are some diamond prices per carat within that range.
Carats Price
0.25 $500-600
0.50 $900-1,100
1.00 $4,000-6,000
1.50 $9,000-13,000
As you can see, none of the other factors have the same consistently high impact on diamond prices as carat weight.
Overall, when it comes to diamond prices per carat it pays off to stay below 1 carat, and apply the ideal grade ranges listed above, you’re certain to find a great value.
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