1-Carat Diamond Rings: Your Go-To Guide

Although many equate carat with size, it actually refers to a diamond’s weight. 1-carat is equal to 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams. Each diamond shape displays its carat weight differently. A Round Brilliant diamond is considered to be the truest to size; a 1-carat Round Brilliant will often be around 6.4 mm in diameter. Marquise-shaped diamonds usually maximize their carat and appear larger on the finger; a 1-carat Marquise measures 4.9 x 8.8 mm on average.

Deciding between carat weights is a personal choice that should be based on your budget and style.

On average, a 1.25-carat Round Brilliant cut diamond will appear around 16% larger than a 1-carat diamond of the same shape. Consider how your preferred diamond shape displays its carat weight before opting for a lighter or heavier stone.

On average, a 1.5-carat Round Brilliant cut diamond will appear around 30% larger than a 1-carat diamond of the same shape. This will create a noticeable difference in size while also costing considerably less expensive than a 2-carat diamond.

A Round Brilliant cut diamond is the most popular diamond shape in the world. Its perceived size is considered true to its carat weight. A 1-carat Round brilliant-cut diamond engagement ring is classic, elegant, and highly coveted. It creates a look that can be passed down as a family heirloom for generations to come.

The Emerald cut is one of the oldest diamond shapes in the world. It is considered a classic shape that is sought after for its clean lines and step-cut facets that create a “hall-of-mirrors” effect. Because of its elongated form, it often appears larger on the finger than a Round Brilliant cut diamond of the same carat weight. A 1-carat Emerald cut diamond engagement ring exudes strength and beauty.

Princess-cut diamonds first appeared in the late 20th century and steadily grew in popularity as a center stone. Because of their square length-to-width ratio, princess-cut diamonds can actually appear smaller than most diamond shapes of the same carat weight. But their large table can occasionally make them seem slightly larger than a Round Brilliant. A 1-carat princess-cut diamond engagement ring creates a look of modern sophistication and elegance.