How Much Does a 1-Carat Diamond Cost?

Everything You Need to Know About Choosing the Perfect 1-Carat Diamond Ring

When it comes to diamond engagement rings, the allure of a 1-carat diamond is undeniable. It’s the ideal size for showcasing brilliance without venturing into extreme price ranges. At Diamondport, one of the most common questions we hear is, “How much does a 1-carat diamond ring cost?” The answer depends on several factors, but a high-quality 1-carat diamond set in a platinum solitaire typically costs between $12,000 and $15,000. The price can vary based on the 4C’s: cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight.

If you're ready to make this significant investment, here’s everything you need to know to select a diamond and setting that your loved one will cherish forever.


Quality Over Quantity: Tips for Selecting a 1-Carat Diamond

While the size of a diamond matters, quality should always take precedence. A stunning diamond is defined by its brilliance, which comes from exceptional cut, polish, and symmetry. Here are the key standards we uphold for selecting diamonds:

Triple Excellent Ratings: The cut, polish, and symmetry must all be rated excellent.

Eye-Clean Clarity: The diamond should appear flawless to the naked eye.

No Fluorescence or BGM: Avoid diamonds with noticeable fluorescence or brown, green, or milky (BGM) tints.

The diamond’s colour also plays a role, but don’t overemphasize slight variations. For instance, it’s challenging to distinguish between D and G colours without magnification. Focus your budget on achieving better cut quality instead.

What’s the Average Cost of a 1-Carat Diamond?

In Australia, a GIA-certified 1-carat diamond with G colour, SI1 clarity, and excellent cut averages $12,000. Add a platinum solitaire setting starting at $2,300, and your total cost will hover around $14,300. Prices fluctuate due to the USD exchange rate, so staying informed about currency changes is essential.

Shopping on a $10,000 Budget

If your budget is around $10,000, consider a 0.80-carat diamond with F colour and SI2 clarity. Such diamonds still achieve impressive sparkle in a platinum setting. Alternatively, lab-grown diamonds can provide larger sizes at more affordable prices, offering excellent value without compromising on quality.

The Hidden Costs of Popular Sizes

Many buyers aim for the 1-carat milestone, driving demand and prices higher for diamonds in this range. However, you can often achieve a similar visual impact by opting for a 0.90-carat diamond with superior cut quality. For instance, a 0.90-carat triple excellent diamond often measures the same diameter as a poorly cut 1-carat diamond, making it a smarter investment.

Avoid Poorly Cut Diamonds

Cut quality is the most crucial factor in a diamond’s sparkle. A poorly cut 1-carat diamond with a shallow or tall shape won’t radiate the brilliance of a triple excellent stone. Instead, consider a 0.90-carat diamond with exceptional cut quality. It’ll look just as large but cost less while delivering unmatched brilliance.

Maximizing Value for Money

Here are our top recommendations for getting the most out of your diamond budget:

  • Set a Clear Budget: Decide on a price range early. This simplifies the selection process.
  • Prioritize Size Over Slight Colour Differences: D-G or G-I colour differences are negligible to the naked eye.
  • Choose SI2 Clarity: Focus on eye-clean diamonds with SI2 clarity. These are more affordable but require careful selection to ensure inclusions aren’t visible.
  • Consider 0.90-Carat Diamonds: Slightly smaller stones can offer better quality for a lower price.

For example, a 0.90-carat diamond in a platinum setting costs around $9,000 to $10,000 while still achieving the look of a 1-carat ring.


Additional Tips for Budget-Conscious Buyers

Working with an experienced diamond grader is invaluable. Experts can help you identify diamonds with minor compromises, such as H-colour stones, which look stunning when cut to perfection. Inclusions should also be carefully reviewed to ensure they don’t impact the stone’s durability or beauty.

Remember, truly flawless diamonds are rare and expensive. For example, a 1-carat VVS1 diamond with a triple excellent cut can cost upwards of $17,800. However, diamonds with VS2 to SI2 clarity can provide exceptional value without sacrificing beauty.

A Ring to Treasure for a Lifetime

An engagement ring symbolizes love and commitment. While the diamond’s brilliance will capture attention, its emotional significance is what makes it truly priceless. Whether you choose a 1-carat diamond or a 0.90-carat alternative, focus on selecting a high-quality stone that reflects your unique love story.

Ready to find your perfect ring? Book a consultation with Diamondport today or email us at enquiries@diamondport.com.au. Let us help you create a timeless piece your partner will cherish forever.

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