The True Meaning of “Carat” in Terms of Diamonds

Diamonds hold a special place in every woman’s heart . . . but what good is a diamond if it doesn’t shine bright? For decades, diamonds have been a symbol of love and respect, which puts a lot of pressure on picking the right rock just for her.

Every stone is different, varying in price, weight, cut, and where the diamond came from. Before you or your loved ones pick a ring, make sure you truly know the meaning behind the term “carat” and its value. Knowing how to choose the best diamonds as well can help you save money while still selecting the life-changing, beautiful, shiny stone of her dreams.

What Is a Diamond ‘Carat’?

Most people believe the word “carat” is about size, but the term actually refers to weight.

Another common mistake is buying a diamond solely for the carat count, believing it’s the best quality. But that’s not necessarily the case. Bigger doesn’t always mean better, and with diamonds, this is an important tip to remember. While it’s true that a big diamond can be a status symbol, unfortunately, the carat has nothing to do with the sparkle and shine. The clarity in the diamond comes from the type of cut and how prestigious the diamond is.

Fun Fact: If your diamond is small but supremely cut, it could look larger and shine brighter than a bigger diamond with a poorly cut stone.

Where Did the Term “Carat” Come From?

The term carat comes from the ancient method of weighing precious metals and stones, as they wo