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Carat Weight
The final C is carat weight. As with all precious stones, the weight - and therefore the size - of a diamond is expressed in carats. The carat originated as a natural unit of weight: the seeds of the carob tree. Diamonds were traditionally weighed against these seeds. The system was later standardized and one carat was fixed at 200 milligrams (1/5) of a gram.
One carat is divided into 100 "points" so that a diamond of 25 points is described as a quarter of a carat or 0.25 carats. Size is the most obvious factor in determining the value of a diamond, but two diamonds of equal size can have unequal prices, depending on their quality. Diamonds of high quality can be found in all size ranges.
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 What Size is Best for Me?
To choose the best carat weight of a diamond, consider her style, the size of her finger, the size of your setting, and your budget.
If you have a set budget, explore all your options and you'll find that there is a wide range of diamond carat weights and qualities available in your price range.
If your recipient is very active or not used to wearing jewelry, she may find herself bumping or nicking her new ring. Consider a smaller size diamond or a setting that protects a larger diamond from getting knocked against doors and counters.
Also keep in mind that the smaller the finger, the larger the diamond will appear. A 1½-carat diamond solitaire looks much larger on a size 4 finger than a size 8.
If you have already chosen a setting, to make sure you choose a diamond to fit, look for the diamond size specifications of your ring in the product catalog or ask us what size diamond you should look for and we'll assist you.
Finally, if a large carat weight is important to you, yet you're working within a budget, consider a diamond with a good cut, SI1–SI2 clarity, and an I or J color grade.
But the best way to determine what size is best is by getting an idea of what she is expecting. If you plan carefully, you can get some answers without even raising her suspicions.
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