1. What is carat? What does it mean and what role does it play in engagement rings?
● Basic knowledge of carats
Carat is a unit of weight for gemstones, with 1 carat being equal to 0.2 grams. This unit originated in ancient times when carob seeds were used as a standard for weight. Today, it is standardized internationally and is widely used to evaluate gemstones, including diamonds. The higher the carat number, the heavier the diamond and generally the larger its size.
● Relationship between diamond appearance and carat weight
As carat weight increases, so does the diameter of a diamond, but the change is not as dramatic as the weight: for example, a 0.5 carat (approximately 5.2mm diameter) and a 1 carat (approximately 6.5mm diameter) diamond is twice as heavy but approximately 1.3 times as large in diameter, so the difference may not seem that great to you.
Trends in carat sizes chosen for engagement rings
Different regions and cultures choose different carats of diamonds for engagement rings.
Japan : 0.3 to 0.5 carats are the norm. Simple and understated designs are popular.
America and Europe : There is a tendency to prefer stones over 1 carat. This is due to the strong influence of culture that places importance on a gorgeous appearance.
However, in recent years, due to the influence of social media, engagement rings with larger diamonds and more glamorous designs are becoming popular in Japan. More and more people are choosing engagement rings that express their individuality and a sense of specialness .
2. Size and price: Why carat weight alone is not enough
●Diamond price structure
The price of a diamond does not simply increase in proportion to the carat number. For example, if a 1 carat diamond costs 500,000 yen, a 2 carat diamond will generally cost more than 1.5 million yen, not twice as much. This is because larger diamonds are rarer.
[Reference price of natural diamonds]
0.5 carat diamond: 300,000 yen
End
1 carat diamond: 1 million yen
End
2-carat diamond: over 3 million yen
● The impact of the "4Cs" on price
The price of a diamond is not determined solely by its carat weight. It is influenced by a number of factors known as the "4Cs":
- Cut : A processing technique that maximizes the brilliance of a diamond
- Color : Transparency and color grade
- Clarity : The presence or absence of inclusions or surface scratches
- Carat : Weight
In particular, a diamond with a good cut is often given more importance than other factors and has a significant impact on the price.
3. Tips for choosing the perfect engagement ring carat size
● Research your partner's preferences
It is important to find out in advance what design and size the person you are giving the engagement ring to prefer. You can get some hints by observing the size and style of their everyday jewelry.
Set a clear budget
To make the best choice within your budget, you need to consider not only the carat weight but also the balance of factors such as color and clarity. For example, even if the carat weight is slightly smaller, if the cut is excellent, the sparkle will look beautiful and you will be more satisfied. It is also effective to choose a shape ( oval, pear, emerald shape, etc.) that makes the carat weight appear larger visually.
● Consult a trusted jeweler
By consulting with a jeweler with specialized knowledge, you can find a diamond that suits your needs. You can also rest assured that you will receive a transparent explanation of the diamond's quality and price. Instead of focusing only on the carat weight, choose the best diamond within your budget by considering the balance of the 4Cs.
●A special carat weight that symbolizes eternal value
Round carat sizes like 1 carat or 1.5 carats can have special meaning in an engagement ring, and choosing one of these carat sizes can add an emotional story to your engagement ring.
●Choose lab-grown diamonds
Large carat natural diamonds are very attractive, but they also cost more. By comparing natural diamonds with lab-grown diamonds, you can get an ethical engagement ring that will satisfy you.
If you're looking for bridal jewelry that offers both lab-grown and laboratory-grown diamonds, check out DIALLURE .
summary
The carat size of an engagement ring is an important factor that greatly affects its appearance, rarity, and price. However, in order to choose the best ring, it is important to consider not only the carat size, but also your budget, your partner's preferences, and other factors of the 4Cs. Use this article as a reference to find the perfect engagement ring that symbolizes your love.
