Carat Weight
The unit of weight for diamonds and gemstones, where 1 carat equals 0.2 grams.
Definition
Carat is the standard unit of weight for diamonds and other gemstones. One carat equals exactly 0.2 grams, or 200 milligrams. Each carat is divided into 100 points, so a 0.75-carat diamond may be called '75 points' or 'three-quarter carat.' Carat weight directly affects price — larger diamonds are rarer and command exponentially higher prices per carat.
Why It Matters for Ring Design
Carat weight is often confused with size (visual appearance). Two diamonds of identical carat weight can appear different sizes depending on their cut proportions. A deeply-cut diamond will appear smaller face-up than a well-proportioned stone of the same weight. Choosing a slightly sub-threshold carat weight (e.g., 0.95 ct vs. 1.00 ct) can save 10–20% with minimal visual difference.
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