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1 carat cushion cut diamond ring Buying Guide

Learn the tricks to save up to $6,432 using our guide.
With this guide, our goal is to help you save money while buying a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring. We will show you what is worth spending your money on and what is not. Additionally, we will share insider tips on where you can find your ideal ring or even a better one.
Ready to buy without the learning curve?
We have searched through various online stores and chosen the top deals for a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring. You can find the links to our selected options below.

Diamond Price Guide Overview
8 buying lessons - 5-10 min total read time

Grab the lowest price for a luxury 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

The upcoming lessons will teach you how to make your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring shine brighter and appear bigger without spending unnecessary money. We will offer advice on how to manage your budget effectively and avoid falling victim to diamond company scams.
Average Price
$2,232.71
Price Range
$1,160-$9,200
Our Max Savings
$6,432
Lessons 1-4  ∴  Save Money 
Lessons 4 & 5  ∶  Spend Money 
Lessons 6-8  ∴  Personalize & Decide 
⤫ 40% Cash Savings

Lesson 1

Buying Online

You can find better prices on diamond rings when you shop online. Retailers often inflate their prices by 40% and offer a limited selection to choose from.
⤫ $6,670 Cash Savings

Lesson 2

Clarity

Learn how to slash diamond ring prices in half with our clarity tips. Get ready to discover big savings.
⤫ $550 Cash Savings

Lesson 3

Color

The color of a diamond is a major factor that impacts its price. We're here to help you understand when to consider this factor for possible savings.
⤫ 85% Cash Savings

Lesson 8

Lab Grown

Lab-grown diamonds can save you a whopping 85% on a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring, which is pretty impressive! However, it's important to note that reselling them might be challenging.
☺ Spend Money

Lesson 4

Carat Weight / Size

Typically, women prefer a diamond that appears bigger, so that's where you should focus your budget. We can help you achieve a larger size while also finding savings in other areas.
☺ Spend Money

Lesson 5

Cut, Sparkle & Brilliance

The diamond's cut plays a vital role in its overall appearance. It's not advisable to skimp on this aspect, as it is responsible for the diamond's sparkle and distinctive appearance.
≔ Personalize

Lesson 6

Shapes

Each shape gives a diamond ring a distinct look when it catches the light. We will show you how each shape appears and shines.
≔ Personalize

Lesson 7

Setting / Band

Choosing a solitaire ring can help you save money and give the illusion of a bigger diamond. However, personal preferences also come into play in this situation.

Lesson 1 - Buy Online
Up to 40% savings here

Instantly lower the price of your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring online by up to 40%.

Have you ever considered purchasing your engagement ring or other jewelry online? Websites such as Blue Nile and James Allen offer this opportunity at prices that are up to 40% lower than those at traditional stores. Additionally, you'll have a wider range of options to choose from and more opportunities for customization. You can easily find exactly what you're looking for without breaking the bank.

To begin creating the most cost-effective and valuable 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring, simply click on the 'shop now' links provided below!

If you're eager to begin shopping, our links will direct you to the best deals on high-quality diamonds from top-rated online diamond retailers.

Our Money Saving Links

Watch us compare pricing with retail stores and our favorite online brands

Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Best overall experience, great selection, 24/7 customer support
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Another excellent website for very well priced diamond rings.
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
They focus on ethically sourced diamonds. Best option for karma free rings
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
They focus on ethically sourced diamonds. Best option for karma free rings
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Mostly here to show you how retail companies are not high quality. 

Lesson 2 - Clarity

When searching for a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring, keep in mind that the clarity of the diamond is what determines its price the most.

⊗ Up to $8,043 savings with these tips
Watch us save thousands of dollars by simply selecting the right clarity range.

What is Clarity?

In the world of diamonds, clarity refers to how noticeable any imperfections are. The main focus is on how easily these flaws can be seen, as most of them can only be detected with a 10x magnifying tool. A diamond's clarity can range from 'flawless' (FL) to 'included' (I), with various classifications like VS1 (Very Slightly Included), VS2, and SI1 (Slightly Included) falling in between. These types of diamonds typically have imperfections that can only be seen under 10x magnification. So, to the naked eye, they will appear completely clear – meaning anyone admiring your ring won't have a clue about any flaws!

Optimal Clarity Range for a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring

Choosing a diamond in the VS2-SI1 clarity range for your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring can result in significant savings, possibly reducing the total price by as much as $8,043. Both the VS2 and SI1 options are worth considering, as the VS2 offers a great combination of price and clarity. However, it is important not to disregard SI1 diamonds, as with a little bit of time spent searching through the available options, you can come across diamonds that appear to be flawlessly beautiful.

One more important tip! Always avoid "cloudy"

This one is simple. Always avoid cloudy diamonds found in the GIA certificate. This is the one flaw that really matters for brilliance. 
☆ These diamonds have identical carat, cut, & color 
Not Recommended
Go with this clarity
FL
IF
VVS1
VVS2
VS1
VS2
SI1
‹ drag left or right ›

FL - Flawless

Cost - $10,120 This diamond is in perfect condition, without any flaws, but when you look at the cost, it's just too expensive. Savings - You could save $7,588 - $8,139 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

IF - Internally Flawless

Cost - $9,200 This diamond is internally perfect, which means there are no flaws inside it, although there might be some on the surface. It's quite extravagant. Savings - You could save $6,668 - $7,219 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VVS1

Cost - $6,160 This diamond is practically perfect, but considering its price, it's still excessively expensive. Savings - You could save $3,628 - $4,179 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VVS2

Cost - $4,280 These diamonds are really good, but we recommend choosing ones with slightly lower clarity since our eyes can't really tell the difference. Savings - You could save $1,748 - $2,299 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VS1 - Very Slightly Included

Cost - $2,698 If you come across an amazing deal for a diamond with excellent clarity, that's fantastic. However, the clarity tiers that follow are the best option in terms of cost-effectiveness and value. Savings - You could save $166 - $717 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond

‹ drag left or right ›

VS2 - Very Slightly Included

Cost: $2,532 Total Savings: $166 - $6,668 When it comes to finding the perfect diamond within your budget, this clarity is a winner. Most of these diamonds will look flawless to you because any imperfections are not visible.
‹ drag left or right ›

SI1 - Slightly Included

Cost: $2,077 Total Savings: $621 - $7,123 You won't find a better price for diamond clarity than this. Remember, not all SI1 diamonds are the same. While some might let you down, many of them are absolutely stunning and could easily be mistaken for a VS2.

Lesson 3 - Color

Diamond color is another major factor that affects the price when shopping for a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

⊗ Up to $773 savings with these tips
Watch us save thousands by purchasing diamonds in the right range

What is Color?

Diamond color is determined by the presence or absence of a yellow hue. The GIA rates diamond color on a scale from D (no color) to Z (light yellow or brown). When it comes to making jewelry, diamonds that are close to colorless, falling within the G-H range, are typically used. It can be difficult to spot any minor traces of color in these diamonds unless they are compared to higher-graded ones. It's important to note that the differences in diamond color are usually extremely subtle and may go unnoticed by someone without training. However, in larger diamonds, the color may become more noticeable. A diamond within the G-H range, which is almost colorless, will appear that way and be priced more favorably compared to diamonds that are more colorless.

Optimal Color Range For A 1 Carat Cushion Cut Diamond Ring

Choosing the right color grade for a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring can lead to significant savings. Instead of purchasing higher-priced diamonds in the D-F range, consider opting for a diamond in the G-J range. This decision can still result in a stunning piece while potentially saving you up to $773, in addition to any savings made by making informed choices regarding clarity. For more intricate designs, such as a halo diamond ring with numerous smaller diamonds encircling the central stone, it is recommended to select a central diamond in the G-H color range. This approach helps avoid any noticeable color contrast that may arise when comparing I-J graded diamonds to the smaller, typically colorless or near-colorless diamonds in the halo.
Clearest Color
Best Value
Sometimes Ok
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
< drag left or right >

D color

Cost - $2,492 This diamond is colorless, meaning it has no hints of yellow, you can find these at a good price, but it is not as common. Savings - You could save $422 - $546 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

E color

Cost - $2,343 An E color diamond is a rare, colorless gem of exceptional beauty and value. You can sometimes find them at a great price. Savings - You could save $273 - $397 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

F color

Cost - $2,202 These are near-colorless with only slight traces of color, making it an attractive choice. You'd really have to look closely to figure it out Savings - You could save $132 - $256 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

G color

Cost - $2,070 These are near-colorless with only slight traces of color, making it an attractive choice for it's quality and price. You'd really have to look closely to notice any color Savings - You could save $124 with an H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

H color

Cost - $1,946 Total Savings: $124 - $546 These are near-colorless with only slightly more noticable hint of color, further making it an attractive choice for it's quality and price. You'd need to have a trained eye to see the color flaw in this one without having a colorless diamond next to it.
‹ drag left or right ›

I color

Cost - $1,829 Total Savings: $241 - $663 These begin to have a bit more noticable hint of color especially when next to colorless diamonds. These still have unnoticable color if placed on a solitaire ring, but we do not recommend these on a halo ring.
‹ drag left or right ›

J color

Cost - $1,719 Total Savings: $351 - $773 These also have a slightly more noticable hint of color especially when next to colorless diamonds. These still have unnoticable color if placed on a solitaire ring, but we do not recommend these on a halo ring.

Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds can often cut prices in half and no one will ever notice the difference. 

Lesson 4 - Lab Grown
Save up to 85% on your diamond ring.

Save up to $1,800 on your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring by opting for a lab grown diamond.

Lab-grown diamonds are the result of scientific processes that create diamonds that appear identical to those found in nature. These lab-grown diamonds are produced in a way that is more environmentally friendly and morally responsible. Compared to naturally occurring diamonds, they are more readily available, making them much more affordable to purchase. In fact, a lab-grown diamond can be up to 85% cheaper than a similar diamond found in nature. The main advantage of lab-grown diamonds is that they offer the opportunity to acquire a diamond of superior quality at a significantly lower cost. This not only reduces the financial burden upfront but also lessens the impact on one's finances, even if selling the diamond later on is not an option.

Opting for a lab-grown diamond can reduce your financial loss when selling your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

Choosing the right color grade for a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring can lead to significant savings. Instead of purchasing higher-priced diamonds in the D-F range, consider opting for a diamond in the G-J range. This decision can still result in a stunning piece while potentially saving you up to $773, in addition to any savings made by making informed choices regarding clarity. For more intricate designs, such as a halo diamond ring with numerous smaller diamonds encircling the central stone, it is recommended to select a central diamond in the G-H color range. This approach helps avoid any noticeable color contrast that may arise when comparing I-J graded diamonds to the smaller, typically colorless or near-colorless diamonds in the halo.
Explore Lab Grown 

Lesson 5 - Carat / Size

When you're shopping for a diamond ring, prioritize investing in the carat weight.

Why is Carat Important?

When you imagine a diamond ring, what do you picture? That's correct - the size of the main diamond. Women also prioritize size, so if you're unsure where to invest your money, we advise focusing on carat weight - it's the ultimate size determinant in the diamond industry.
Watch us compare sizes and help you visualize what you want. 

Choose this Carat Range for your 1-carat cushion cut diamond ring Shopping.Select this Carat Range for your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring Shopping)

You might want to check out diamonds in the 0.9 to 1.1 carat range. That way, you can see some nice differences in prices without a big change in size.
Hand Diamond

1 carat

Explore More Diamond Weights

Lesson 6 - Cut

When purchasing your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring, remember that the cut of the diamond determines how it sparkles. Opt for an ideal or excellent cut for the most brilliant stone.

Find out why cut makes diamonds sparkle and why you want ideal or excellent cut diamonds.

What is Cut?

When searching for a stunning 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring, one must take into account the diamond's cut. The cut refers to the way in which the facets of the diamond are shaped, ultimately determining its sparkle and brilliance. Therefore, the precision and perfection of the cut play a significant role in the overall appearance of the diamond.

A hidden truth within the diamond industry

Sometimes, people think that the fanciest cut diamond, perfectly proportioned to shine the brightest, would cost the most money. But that's not always true. Believe it or not, there are times when a diamond with an average cut, but with the same weight, color, and clarity, can be sold for a higher price. It may sound strange, but poorly cut diamonds can actually look bigger, yet they lack that special sparkle and brilliance. And let's face it, a diamond without sparkle is like having a computer without a screen.

Keep this in mind: go for GIA Certified Excellent Cut Diamonds (sometimes referred to as "Ideal" Cut).


Never Buy These
Definitely Buy These
Fair
Good
Very Good
Ideal
Excellent
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Fair Cut Diamond

Look at that dull sparkle... not much to write home about. Stay away from these.
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Good Cut

Still pretty bland in the sparkle area... stay away from these. 
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Very Good Cut

Getting better, but you don't save much money to  
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Ideal Cut

The is as low as you should go
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Excellent Cut

Blue Nile calls it Astor, James Allen calls it True Hearts, and Brilliant Earth calls it Truly Brilliant. 

Regardless, excellent cut diamonds have incredible sparkle.

Lesson 7 - Shape

The brilliance of diamonds is influenced by their shape, and specific shapes can contribute to the perceived value of a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

What is Diamond Shape?

The diamond shape is all about the style of the diamond, like round, oval, and cushion. There are actually a bunch of different shapes to choose from, each one giving the diamond a unique look. Some shapes can make the diamond seem bigger, while others make it sparkle more and give it a classic, timeless vibe. In this section, you can use our shape tool to check out a variety of 1 carat diamond rings with different shapes.

What shape to choose?

Sure, some diamond shapes can make the stone look bigger, and some shapes are popular right now. But remember, what really counts is what makes you the happiest. If you're not sure, a brilliant cut diamond, such as Round, Marquise, Princess, Cushion, Oval, Pear, and Radiant shapes, might be your best bet. Out of these, Round diamonds are the most popular, while Oval and Marquise shapes can give the impression of a larger diamond without weighing more.
Watch us compare shapes so you can see exactly what style you prefer. 

Explore other diamond shapes

Try out different diamonds

Hand Diamond
Round
Marquise
Princess
Emerald
Cushion
Oval
Pear
Asscher
Radiant
Heart

Lesson 8 - Setting

The appearance of a cushion cut diamond ring with a weight of 1 carat can be dramatically changed by the choice of band.

What is setting?

The metallic piece of the diamond ring, commonly known as the band, is called the setting. These are typically made of gold and come in white, yellow, or rose gold shades. Another option for the band could be platinum. The setting plays a crucial role in determining the overall look of your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your personal taste. We have provided information on the three most popular settings below. Regardless of your preference, it is advisable to choose 14k gold. Keep reading to learn the reasons behind this recommendation.
The setting or band is really important for making your diamond look bigger and better. 

Think about getting a 14K gold band for your ring.

Here's a crucial rule to follow. Avoid choosing 18k or 24k gold for your setting. It's better to opt for 14k gold. Despite 18k and 24k gold being more pure, they are considerably softer and prone to bending. If the setting that secures your valuable diamond bends excessively, the chance of the diamond becoming loose and falling out rises significantly. Numerous individuals have faced this issue.

Solitaire Setting - A Slim Band Accentuates the Look of a Larger Diamond

Poll results indicate that most women have a preference for large diamonds. A way to highlight the size of a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring is by choosing a Solitaire setting with a fine, delicate band. The difference in size between the tiny band and the large diamond can generate an illusion of an even bigger stone. Adding small accent diamonds along the band can also amplify this effect, providing decorative detail without overshadowing the central diamond.

Halo: Enhance Your Diamond's Size with Small Diamonds

To give your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring a bigger appearance, you might want to think about using a halo setting. The small diamonds around the main stone make it shine brighter and seem bigger. If you really want to make a statement, you could go for a double halo setting to create an even more eye-catching illusion. When combined with a thin band, this can turn a smaller diamond into a visually larger and super fancy gem.

Don't diminish the significance of the main diamond.

Many women want a diamond that appears as large as it can be. If the band on the ring is overly decorative or wide, it can take away from the diamond's size, making it seem smaller in comparison. If you want your 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring to really stand out, it might be a good idea to opt for a simpler band. However, if you value the overall design of the entire ring, a more detailed band could be your preference. Just keep in mind that this may take away from the diamond's striking presence.

Build a Custom 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring Starting with Our Curated Diamond Selections For The Best Deals

Creating a customized piece of jewelry is a personal experience where you can design something that perfectly reflects your individual style and character. Not only does it provide the opportunity to tailor every aspect of your ring, from the diamond's shape to the band's design, but it also offers significant cost savings compared to buying from traditional stores. Trusted brands like Brilliant Earth, James Allen, and Blue Nile are leading the industry in providing these personalized options.
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Watch us take you through the entire building process on our favorite websites.

Protect your diamond ring by purchasing it online through one of our trusted partners. Each link will lead you to the best deal available.

We have evaluated every company, and every "Shop Now" link is automatically adjusted to direct you to the best prices for high-quality diamonds. Essentially, it utilizes our specific criteria on each website to discover the greatest discounts on your request. Indulge in a wide selection of custom-designed rings and exceptional customer care.

Our Money Saving Links

Watch us compare pricing with retail stores and our favorite online brands

Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Best overall experience, great selection, 24/7 customer support
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Another excellent website for very well priced diamond rings.
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
They focus on ethically sourced diamonds. Best option for karma free rings
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
They focus on ethically sourced diamonds. Best option for karma free rings
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Mostly here to show you how retail companies are not high quality. 

Virtual Appointment

Let us help you get help by the industry leaders. When you click the button below we will help you choose where to set up your appointment.
Book Appointment

Frequently Asked

Did you want to know even more? Wow you're a great student!

How much is a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring worth?

On average, a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring is worth around $2,200. However, the price range for such rings can vary from $1,160 to $9,200.

How big is a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring?

A 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring typically has a size of around 6.4mm in diameter. This size is slightly smaller than a 1.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring, which has a diameter of approximately 6.8mm. On the other hand, it is slightly larger than a 0.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring, which has a diameter of around 5.2mm.

What does a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring look like like on a hand?

A 1-carat cushion cut diamond ring on a hand appears elegant and eye-catching. The cushion cut diamond has a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, giving it a soft and romantic appearance. The 1-carat size of the diamond adds a noticeable sparkle and brilliance to the ring, making it a stunning choice for an engagement or special occasion ring.

What is the price of a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring?

The price of a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring can range from $1,160 to $9,200.

Is a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring good enough?

Yes, a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring can be considered good enough. The quality and beauty of a diamond ring depend on various factors, including personal preferences and budget. A well-cut, high-quality 1 carat cushion cut diamond can still be visually appealing and make for a beautiful ring.

Is a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring big?

Yes, a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring is considered a decent size. The average carat weight for a cushion cut diamond engagement ring is around 0.9 carats, so a 1 carat diamond is slightly above average. It will definitely catch the eye and appear noticeable on your finger. Overall, it is a popular and desirable choice for an engagement ring.

What does a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring weigh?

A 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring weighs 0.2 grams.

Should I get a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring?

A 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring is a popular choice because of its classic shape, versatility, and affordability.

Is a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring too big?

A 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring is not considered too big. The cushion cut is known for its larger face-up appearance, so a 1 carat diamond will still look substantial on the finger.

Is a 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring small?

A 1 carat cushion cut diamond ring can be considered small, as the size of the diamond will appear differently on different sized fingers. However, the cut of the diamond can also play a role in how it appears, as a cushion cut can make the diamond appear slightly larger than its actual carat weight.
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