When shopping for diamond jewellery (and, specifically, engagement rings), the term “carat” often comes into play. Carat refers to the weight of a diamond and is a principal factor in determining its value Usually, the bigger carat weight = the bigger the diamond, and it’s usually what people are referring to when they talk about the size of the stone. But what exactly constitutes a big carat size? When you don’t have anything to compare it to, understanding how big a carat size is might seem quite confusing. Read on for our helpful guide.
Understanding carat size
Firstly, it’s essential to clarify what a carat actuallt is. A carat, which weighs approximately 0.2 grams, is the unit used to measure the weight of diamonds and other gemstones. Each carat can be subdivided into 100 points, allowing for precise measurements.
So what is a big carat weight?
Size is subjective and varies depending on personal preference and budget (and even things like finger size, if you’re looking at engagement rings!). However, diamonds of one carat and above are typically considered large. It’s worth noting that a one-carat diamond is about 6.5mm in diameter. This size is substantial enough to stand out on any piece of jewellery, providing sparkle with every movement. Read our guide, here, to choosing the right carat size.
The visual impact of carat size
A larger carat size does not only mean a bigger stone but also a more noticeable presence. Diamonds that are two carats or more are particularly impressive and are often sought after for statement pieces. For engagement rings, a two-carat diamond is a luxurious choice that’s sure to draw attention, with three and five carat rings being at the highest end of the spectrum. Be aware that when you see celebrities and influencers sporting large carat weights, it can become easy to think these sizes are ‘normal’. However, extra-large carat weights are not the norm, and it’s important to remember this to avoid disappointment when trying on ‘realistic’ carat sizes.
One of the most decisive factors when considering carat size is budget. Larger diamonds are rarer and therefore more expensive. It’s important to balance carat size with other characteristics such as cut, colour, and clarity, to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Style and setting
The style of the jewellery and the setting can make a smaller diamond appear larger. Clever setting styles like halo or pavé can enhance the overall appearance of the diamond, making it seem more substantial than the carat weight actually is.
Wearability and lifestyle
It’s also vital to consider the practicality of wearing larger carat sizes daily. For some, a larger diamond might be less comfortable or suitable depending on their lifestyle and activities – such as their job, or if they care for small children. For an engagement ring, which carat looks best can even come down to your finger and hand sizes.
Which carat weight is right for you?
In conclusion, while a carat size of one or above is generally considered large, the right carat size for you will depend on a combination of budget, style preference, and practical considerations. Take a look at our beautiful selection of engagement rings here, and find the shape (and size!) that speaks to you.
What is considered a big carat size?
When shopping for diamond jewellery (and, specifically, engagement rings), the term “carat” often comes into play. Carat refers to the weight of a diamond and is a principal factor in determining its value Usually, the bigger carat weight = the bigger the diamond, and it’s usually what people are referring to when they talk about the size of the stone. But what exactly constitutes a big carat size? When you don’t have anything to compare it to, understanding how big a carat size is might seem quite confusing. Read on for our helpful guide.
Understanding carat size
Firstly, it’s essential to clarify what a carat actuallt is. A carat, which weighs approximately 0.2 grams, is the unit used to measure the weight of diamonds and other gemstones. Each carat can be subdivided into 100 points, allowing for precise measurements.
So what is a big carat weight?
Size is subjective and varies depending on personal preference and budget (and even things like finger size, if you’re looking at engagement rings!). However, diamonds of one carat and above are typically considered large. It’s worth noting that a one-carat diamond is about 6.5mm in diameter. This size is substantial enough to stand out on any piece of jewellery, providing sparkle with every movement. Read our guide, here, to choosing the right carat size.
The visual impact of carat size
A larger carat size does not only mean a bigger stone but also a more noticeable presence. Diamonds that are two carats or more are particularly impressive and are often sought after for statement pieces. For engagement rings, a two-carat diamond is a luxurious choice that’s sure to draw attention, with three and five carat rings being at the highest end of the spectrum. Be aware that when you see celebrities and influencers sporting large carat weights, it can become easy to think these sizes are ‘normal’. However, extra-large carat weights are not the norm, and it’s important to remember this to avoid disappointment when trying on ‘realistic’ carat sizes.
Although there’s no right or wrong answer to how many carats an engagement ring ‘should’ be, many people think there is – read our take on this tricky question, here.
Factors that influence your carat size
Budget
One of the most decisive factors when considering carat size is budget. Larger diamonds are rarer and therefore more expensive. It’s important to balance carat size with other characteristics such as cut, colour, and clarity, to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Style and setting
The style of the jewellery and the setting can make a smaller diamond appear larger. Clever setting styles like halo or pavé can enhance the overall appearance of the diamond, making it seem more substantial than the carat weight actually is.
Wearability and lifestyle
It’s also vital to consider the practicality of wearing larger carat sizes daily. For some, a larger diamond might be less comfortable or suitable depending on their lifestyle and activities – such as their job, or if they care for small children. For an engagement ring, which carat looks best can even come down to your finger and hand sizes.
Which carat weight is right for you?
In conclusion, while a carat size of one or above is generally considered large, the right carat size for you will depend on a combination of budget, style preference, and practical considerations. Take a look at our beautiful selection of engagement rings here, and find the shape (and size!) that speaks to you.
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