Diamond Education
4Cs - Karat (Carat)
A carat refers to a diamond’s weight, not its size. One carat is equal to 0.20 grams. GISELLE diamonds are always selected for their cut (maximum brilliance) or their exceptionally rare beauty (antique diamonds), not for their carat weight.
WHAT DOES "CARAT" MEAN WHEN IT COMES TO DIAMONDS?
Carat is a unit of weight for diamonds, not a measure of their size, as is often believed. Therefore, diamonds with the same carat weight can appear to be completely different sizes.
This variation in appearance is particularly evident in the different diamond shapes. The depth of a diamond’s cut plays a major role. For example, a diamond may have a significant amount of weight concentrated in its pavilion, making it appear smaller. However, carat weight is a good guideline for a set budget. The price rises exponentially with increasing carat weight, as larger diamonds are much rarer and therefore more difficult to source.
Our jewelry experts at GISELLE are always here for you. Of course, you’re also welcome to visit us at our GISELLE boutique in Zurich—no obligation—Yours, Jeweler in Zurich.
The dimensions shown are for illustrative purposes only. The images do not reflect the actual size.
Is a higher carat weight better?
No, carat weight alone does not determine a diamond’s value. There are significant price differences among diamonds of the same carat weight, since other factors—such as cut, color, and clarity—must also be taken into account. Therefore, a diamond’s beauty and value are not defined primarily by carat weight alone.
Cut
The largest and most important factor affecting a diamond's appearance and sparkle. In addition to the different types of cuts, the cut refers specifically to how light is refracted within the diamond.
COLOR
Among other things, color refers to a diamond's natural color.
PURITY (CLARITY)
Clarity refers to the number, size, type, and location of natural inclusions in a diamond. Different inclusions are graded differently, as not all are equally visible.
FAQs
There's no right or wrong here. It depends on the person wearing it.
Most of our female customers are drawn to 1ct–2ct stones (visually). However, there are also women who specifically prefer larger stones starting at 3ct, or—on the other hand—women who want a tiny stone (about 0.05ct).
If you have no idea what your sweetheart wants, I recommend buying a diamond ranging from 0.50 ct to 1 ct. Even on petite women, this size won’t look too big, and if she does end up wanting a larger ring, you can always upgrade it later.
Diamonds are measured in carats. One carat is equal to 0.20 grams.
For a moderate budget, we recommend G/H and Si1 as good standard-quality options.
Color:
For white gold and platinum, be sure to choose G. For rose gold and yellow gold, an H is also perfectly acceptable, since the stone takes on a slight yellow tint from the alloy anyway.
Purity:
With Si1, you can expect an "eye-clean" diamond. The inclusions are mainly visible under a loupe.
However, we do not recommend going below Si1. The inclusions may be visible to the naked eye and significantly impair the stone's sparkle.
Would you like to buy an engagement ring, wedding band, or piece of jewelry on an installment plan? We’d be happy to help you make your dreams come true. This service is handled by a third party, Heidipay. Up to 10k (with absolutely no interest) can be borrowed in up to 12 installments.
Diamond Lounge
a place full of beauty and elegance. We cordially invite you to visit us to discover our unique jewelry and select from our exquisite diamonds and gemstones. Enjoy a personalized consultation, tailored entirely to your needs, with one of our experienced experts.
Treat yourself to a break and immerse yourself in the magical world of the earth’s treasures. Our Diamond Lounge offers the perfect setting to relax and admire the exquisite craftsmanship of our designs.
We recommend making an appointment in advance to ensure that we can provide you with the best possible experience without any wait time.