Carat Weight

Unlike colour, clarity and cut, which are the result of visual analysis, carat weight has a finite value. This simply determined by weighing the stone. The term carat weight dates back to when gemstones were weighed against the carob bean.

1 carat (ct) = 0.200 gram

The weight of a diamond may also be expressed as €œpoints€, where 1ct equals 100 points. For example, a 1-point (pt) diamond equals 0.01carats. This term is usually only used when referring to stones less than 1 ct.  According to international standards, the carat weight of a diamond is indicated to the second decimal point.

A larger carat weight does not always equate to a greater value diamond. The entire value of a diamond is determined by all of the four C€™s €“ carat weight, colour, clarity and cut. Two stones of equal carat weight can have vastly different prices if their colour, clarity or quality of cut differs.
The price of diamond may be expressed as a price per carat (ppc), rather than a total diamond price.

Sometimes diamonds are described by their millimetre size rather than carat weight. The size of a diamond can be an indication of the approximate carat weight; this can be very accurate when stones are finely cut. Stone that are of poor make either have a smaller or larger girdle outline than expected for their carat weight because they aren€™t well proportioned.

The weight of a diamond is determined by use of a diamond balance or scale. The balance should be placed on a stable base/platform free from shocks and vibrations as this can influence the accuracy of the measuring. These diamond scales should be re-calibrated by a qualified technician on a regular basis to ensure accurate measurement.