When shopping for diamonds, carat weight is one of the most significant factors in determining a stone’s value and appearance. But what does it really mean, and how does it affect your choice? Let’s break it down.

What Is Carat Weight?

Carat weight measures a diamond’s actual weight, not necessarily its size. One carat equals 200 milligrams (or 0.2 grams)—about the weight of a paperclip. Since even tiny differences in weight can impact value, each carat is divided into 100 points to ensure precise measurements. For example, a 0.50-carat diamond is also referred to as a "50-pointer". 

Carat Weight vs. Diamond Size

Many people assume that a higher carat weight means a larger-looking diamond, but that’s not always the case. A diamond’s cut, shape, and depth can significantly affect how large it appears. Two diamonds with the same carat weight may look different in size depending on how they are proportioned. A well-cut diamond will reflect more light and appear larger, while a deeper-cut diamond may hold more weight but seem smaller when viewed from above.

How Diamonds Are Weighed

Professionals use highly precise micro-balance scales to measure diamonds, ensuring accuracy down to the thousandth decimal place. Even a tiny variation can influence a diamond’s price.  That’s why GIA (Gemological Institute of America) evaluates carat weight as one of the 4Cs (Carat, Cut, Color, and Clarity) in its grading reports, helping buyers understand a diamond’s true value. 

Carat vs. Karat: What's the Difference?

It's easy to confuse these two terms, but they refer to different things:

• Carat measures the weight of a diamond or gemstone.
• Karat measures the purity of gold (e.g., 24K gold is pure gold, while 18K gold is 75%gold mixed with other metals).

Finding the Right Diamond for You

At Provident Jewelry, we take pride in offering an exquisite selection of natural diamonds, each carefully selected for its exceptional quality and beauty. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect diamond that balances size, brilliance, and personal preference. Whether you're looking for a timeless solitaire or a statement piece, we are here to guide you through every step of the selection process