What Is a Carat, Really?
And why it’s more than just a number.
When it comes to shopping for diamonds or gemstones, one word seems to pop up everywhere: carat. It’s often associated with size, luxury, and price tags—but what is a carat, really? And does a higher carat always mean a better stone?
Let’s cut through the sparkle and explain what “carat” truly means.
First Things First: A Carat Is About Weight, Not Size
This surprises a lot of people: a carat measures weight, not visual size. One carat equals 200 milligrams—or 0.2 grams. That’s roughly the weight of a paperclip!
So, why do some one-carat stones look bigger than others? It comes down to shape, cut, and density. A well-cut round diamond might appear smaller than a shallower-cut oval gem, even if both weigh the same.
Carat vs. Karat: Not the Same Thing
Quick clarification: Carat (ct) is for gemstone weight.
Karat (k), with a “k,” measures the purity of gold (like 14k or 18k).
They sound similar but are completely different. One is about how heavy your gem is, the other is how pure your gold is.
Carat & Size: The Visual Trick
Here's where it gets interesting. Two diamonds can both weigh one carat, but:
- A deep cut diamond might hide more of its weight in the bottom (making it look smaller from the top).
- A shallow cut diamond might look wider but have less sparkle because it doesn’t reflect light as well.
That’s why jewelers also talk about cut, clarity, and color—the full “4Cs” that determine a diamond’s beauty and value.
Does a Higher Carat Always Mean a Higher Price?
Not always—but usually. Price jumps significantly at popular milestones: 1.00 ct, 1.5 ct, 2.0 ct, etc. But two diamonds with the same carat weight can have very different prices if:
- One has better clarity or color
- One is ethically sourced or lab-grown
- One is cut to perfection while the other is dull
Pro tip: A 0.90 ct diamond can look nearly identical to a 1.00 ct diamond, but cost significantly less. Smart shoppers know where to look!
Carat Weight in the Real World
A 1 carat solitaire necklace? Bold, timeless like our Estee Lab Diamond Necklace
A 2.8 carat lab diamond? Statement-making sparkle. Refer to our 2.8 carat lab diamond necklace
0.25 carat studs? Dainty, everyday elegance. Take a look at our Heart Earrings in Diamond
Carat isn’t about what's “better”—it’s about what fits your style, your budget, and how you want to shine.
So, what is a carat, really?
It’s a unit of weight, not size. It’s one piece of the puzzle when choosing the perfect stone. And while it can affect price and presence, it’s not the only thing that matters.
Whether you’re gifting or treating yourself, don’t just chase carats—look for a piece that speaks to you, shines with intention, and reflects what you love most.