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1 carat diamond ring Buying Guide

Save $8,288 with our handy guide.
Let's explore a guide that will assist you in maximizing the value of your money when purchasing a 1 carat diamond ring. We will provide advice on where to make smart investments and where to save money, along with sharing the ideal places to buy your dream ring or perhaps even one that surpasses your expectations.
Eager to buy and skip the lessons?
Find the best deals on 1 carat diamond rings from top online stores. Check out our carefully chosen selections in the links below. These links will help you find the best prices for high-quality diamonds.

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

Score the most affordable deal for a high-value 1 carat diamond ring.

In the upcoming lessons, we will guide you on learning ways to save money while getting the most out of your 1 carat diamond ring, making it shine and appear larger. Additionally, we will educate you on how to avoid deception by the diamond industry.
Average Price
$2,852.25
Price Range
$980-$11,340
Our Max Savings
$8,288
Lessons 1-4  ∴  Save Money 
Lessons 4 & 5  ∶  Spend Money 
Lessons 6-8  ∴  Personalize & Decide 
⤫ 40% Cash Savings

Lesson 1

Buying Online

You can save a lot of money by purchasing your diamond ring online. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores usually have a higher price tag, with prices marked up by as much as 40%. Additionally, their selection of rings is typically much more limited compared to online retailers.
⤫ $7,800 Cash Savings

Lesson 2

Clarity

You can save a lot of money on diamond ring prices by using our clarity tips. We will teach you how to save a significant amount here.
⤫ $710 Cash Savings

Lesson 3

Color

Color is another important factor that impacts the price of diamonds. We will assist you in determining when to utilize this aspect to achieve significant savings.
⤫ 85% Cash Savings

Lesson 8

Lab Grown

Choosing a lab-grown diamond ring could save you a whopping 85% on a 1 carat ring, but it might be difficult to sell later on.
☺ Spend Money

Lesson 4

Carat Weight / Size

Women generally prefer diamonds that appear larger in size, so this is the aspect where you should concentrate your investment. We are here to assist you in getting the most out of your budget by maximizing the size of the diamond while being cost-effective in other areas.
☺ Spend Money

Lesson 5

Cut, Sparkle & Brilliance

The cut of a diamond is the most crucial aspect that determines its overall appearance. It's essential not to skimp on this aspect, as it is what gives the diamond its brilliance and captivating appearance.
≔ Personalize

Lesson 6

Shapes

A diamond ring looks different and sparkles in a unique way with each shape. We will show you the appearance and shine of each shape.
≔ Personalize

Lesson 7

Setting / Band

Choosing a solitaire ring can help you save money and create the illusion of a larger diamond. However, it ultimately depends on your personal preference.

Lesson 1 - Buy Online
Up to 40% savings here

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

Purchasing jewelry online has many advantages over shopping at physical stores, especially when it comes to cost, variety, and customization. Online retailers like Blue Nile and James Allen can offer diamonds at much lower prices compared to traditional stores, often up to 40% cheaper. This is because they don't have the same expenses associated with maintaining physical locations. Furthermore, online platforms provide a wider range of options, making it easier for you to find the perfect diamond among a large selection. They also offer more customization choices, allowing you to create a ring that perfectly matches your vision. This not only adds value to your purchase but also gives it a personal touch.

Click on the shop now links below to begin building the most affordable and valuable 1 carat diamond ring!

If you're eager to start shopping, you can click on any of our links to find the best deals on high-quality diamonds from reputable online diamond companies.

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

The pricing of a 1 carat diamond ring is primarily influenced by the clarity of the diamond

⊗ Up to $9,775 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 flawless they appear. However, it's important to note that the term "noticeable" is key here, as most imperfections can only be seen under a 10x magnifying glass. Diamond clarity is categorized from 'flawless' (FL) to 'included' (I), with classifications like VS1 (Very Slightly Included), VS2, and SI1 (Slightly Included) falling in between. Diamonds in these categories often have blemishes that can only be seen with a 10x magnifier. So, to the naked eye, they usually look completely clear, ensuring that anyone admiring your ring won't notice any flaws!

Optimal Clarity Range for a 1 carat diamond ring

Choosing a diamond in the VS2-SI1 clarity range for your 1 carat diamond ring can result in significant savings, with the potential to reduce the total price by as much as $9,775. When it comes to striking a balance between price and clarity, we highly recommend opting for a diamond in the VS2 range. However, it is important not to dismiss SI1 diamonds. By dedicating just a few minutes to carefully examining the diamonds, you can find ones that have an appearance that is virtually flawless.

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 - $12,474 This diamond is absolutely flawless, without any imperfections at all. However, considering the cost, it's extremely expensive. Savings - You could save $8,929 - $10,090 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

IF - Internally Flawless

Cost - $11,340 The diamond is flawless on the inside, which means it has no imperfections. However, it may have some flaws on the outside. This is also a bit excessive. Savings - You could save $7,795 - $8,956 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VVS1

Cost - $9,880 This diamond is almost flawless, but when you take into account the cost, it is still too extravagant. Savings - You could save $6,335 - $7,496 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VVS2

Cost - $11,340 These diamonds are really nice, but we suggest going for a lower clarity. Savings - You could save $7,795 - $8,956 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VS1 - Very Slightly Included

Cost - $3,748 If you happen to come across a really good offer for a VS1, that's definitely a bonus. However, if you're looking for the best combination of price and quality, it would be wise to consider one of the clarity levels that follow. Savings - You could save $203 - $1,364 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond

‹ drag left or right ›

VS2 - Very Slightly Included

Cost: $3,545 Total Savings: $203 - $7,795 If you want to make the most of your money, this diamond clarity is unbeatable. These diamonds appear flawless to the naked eye as any imperfections are completely invisible.
‹ drag left or right ›

SI1 - Slightly Included

Cost: $2,699 Total Savings: $1,049 - $8,641 You won't find a better choice for diamond clarity at this price. But remember, not all SI1 diamonds are the same. Some may not meet your expectations, but many of them are absolutely stunning and could easily be mistaken for a VS2.

Lesson 3 - Color

The color you choose for a 1 carat diamond ring greatly affects its price.

⊗ Up to $1,004 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 Diamond Ring

Opting for a 1 carat diamond ring calls for carefully selecting the appropriate color grade to maximize your budget. Instead of investing in pricier D-F graded diamonds, consider a diamond that falls within the G-J range. By doing so, not only can you acquire an exquisite piece, but you can also save a substantial amount of money, up to $1,004, in addition to any savings obtained from wise clarity decisions.
Clearest Color
Best Value
Sometimes Ok
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
< drag left or right >

D color

Cost - $3,239 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 $549 - $710 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

E color

Cost - $3,044 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 $354 - $516 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

F color

Cost - $2,862 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 $172 - $333 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

G color

Cost - $2,690 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 $161 with an H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

H color

Cost - $2,529 Total Savings: $161 - $710 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 - $2,377 Total Savings: $313 - $862 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 - $2,234 Total Savings: $456 - $1,004 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 $2,400 on your 1 carat diamond ring by opting for a lab grown diamond.

Lab-grown diamonds, also known as man-made diamonds, possess the benefit of appearing identical to natural diamonds, while being created through a sustainable and ethical process. Moreover, their affordability is enhanced due to their increased availability compared to natural diamonds. In fact, a lab-grown diamond can cost up to 85% less than a similar natural diamond.

When it comes time to sell your 1 carat diamond ring, choosing a lab-grown diamond can help mitigate your financial loss.

Opting for a 1 carat diamond ring calls for carefully selecting the appropriate color grade to maximize your budget. Instead of investing in pricier D-F graded diamonds, consider a diamond that falls within the G-J range. By doing so, not only can you acquire an exquisite piece, but you can also save a substantial amount of money, up to $1,004, in addition to any savings obtained from wise clarity decisions.
Explore Lab Grown 

Lesson 5 - Carat / Size

When buying your diamond ring, make sure to prioritize spending on carat.

Why is Carat Important?

Imagine a diamond ring. What's the main attraction? The size of the center diamond, of course. It's no secret - women agree that size is important according to surveys. And since the carat weight determines the size of the diamond, that's where we suggest you spend your money.
Watch us compare sizes and help you visualize what you want. 

The recommended carat range for shopping for a 1-carat diamond ring.

You should check out diamonds that are between 0.9 and 1.1 carats. This way, you can get an idea of the price range without a significant change in size.
Hand Diamond

1 carat

Explore More Diamond Weights

Lesson 6 - Cut

It's important to understand that the cut of a diamond directly impacts its sparkle. When buying your 1 carat diamond ring, choose an ideal or excellent cut to enhance its brilliance.

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

What is Cut?

When you're on the hunt for the most stunning 1 carat diamond ring, keep in mind that the way it's cut plays a major role in how it shines and sparkles. The cut refers to the diamond's angles and how precisely and perfectly they're crafted.

The behind-the-scenes truth about diamonds

Many people assume that a diamond with an 'Ideal' cut, which is renowned for its incredible sparkle due to its perfect proportions, will always be the priciest option. However, this is not always the case. In certain situations, a 'Fair' cut diamond with similar carat, color, and clarity may actually come with a higher price tag. This happens because poorly cut diamonds can appear larger but lack the sparkle and brilliance that you desire. Simply put, a diamond without sparkle is akin to a clock without hands.

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 sparkliness of diamonds varies depending on their shape, and some shapes can add to the perceived value of a 1 carat diamond ring.

What is Diamond Shape?

The diamond shape is all about the different styles of the diamond, like round, oval, and many others. Some shapes can make the diamond look bigger, while others give it more shine and a classic appearance. Check out our shape tool in this section to see a variety of 1 carat diamond rings with different shapes.

What shape to choose?

When it comes to choosing a diamond, some shapes can make it look bigger, and certain shapes are trendy right now. But what really matters is what you personally love and what brings you joy. If you can't decide, go for a brilliant cut diamond, which includes shapes like Round, Marquise, Princess, Cushion, Oval, Pear, and Radiant. Round is the most popular, but Oval and Marquise have the power to make the diamond look larger even with the same weight.
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 1 carat diamond ring can vary greatly depending on the type of band it has.

What is setting?

Often referred to as the band, the setting is the part of the diamond ring that holds the gem. It is typically made of gold in different shades like white, yellow, or rose gold. Another option to consider is a platinum band. The setting plays a big role in the overall appearance of your 1 carat diamond ring. It's the place where you can showcase your personal style preferences. Below, we have highlighted the three most popular settings. Regardless of your selection, we suggest going with 14k gold. We will explain the reasoning behind this recommendation later on.
The setting or band is really important for making your diamond look bigger and better. 

Choose a 14K gold band.

Remember this important guideline. Don't use 18 karat or 24 karat gold for your setting. Go with 14 karat gold instead. Even though 18 karat and 24 karat gold are more pure, they are noticeably less durable and prone to bending. If your precious diamond's setting bends too easily, there's a significant risk of the diamond becoming loose and falling out. This is a common problem for many people.

Solitaire - A Delicate Ring Enhances the Size of the Center Diamond Significantly

Based on survey data, many women aspire to have a large diamond. To maximize the apparent size of a 1 carat diamond ring, consider a Solitaire setting with a slim, refined band. The contrast of the smaller band with the larger diamond can make the stone appear larger. To augment this effect, look for settings that feature small accent diamonds along the band. They'll add a tasteful embellishment without taking attention away from the main diamond.

Halo: Make Diamond Look Bigger with Lots of Smaller Diamonds

Choosing a halo setting is a clever choice to enhance the visual appearance of your 1 carat diamond ring. In this style, smaller diamonds surround the main stone, creating a dazzling effect that makes the diamond appear larger. If you're looking to go above and beyond, a double halo setting combined with a slim band can make even a petite diamond appear significantly bigger, exuding a luxurious feel.

Make sure to focus on the main diamond.

Most women prefer their diamond to look big. A fancy or wide band might take away from the diamond's size, giving the impression that it's smaller. If you want your 1 carat diamond ring to be the main attraction, a simpler band would be a good option. However, if you value the overall design of the ring more, a more intricate band could be the way to go. Just keep in mind that this might take attention away from the diamond's striking appearance.

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

Creating your own custom piece of jewelry is a special project that lets you design a ring that truly reflects your personal style and character. What's even better is that it's more affordable than buying from a store. With top brands like Brilliant Earth, James Allen, and Blue Nile, you have the ability to customize every aspect of your ring, from the diamond's shape to the style of the band.
Start Building
Watch us take you through the entire building process on our favorite websites.

Buy your diamond ring online from one of our trustworthy partners. Each link ensures you get the best possible value.

We have thoroughly examined each company and made sure that every "Shop Now" link is set up to direct you to the most competitive prices for high-quality diamonds. This means that we have individually adjusted the settings on each website to assist you in finding the greatest savings on your purchase. Enjoy a diverse selection, personalized rings, and unparalleled customer assistance to enhance your shopping experience.

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 diamond ring worth?

A 1 carat diamond ring is worth an average price of $2900, with a price range between $980 and $11,340.

How big is a 1 carat diamond ring?

A 1 carat diamond ring typically has a diameter of around 6.4mm. This size can be compared to a 0.5 carat diamond ring, which would have a slightly smaller diameter of around 5.9mm. On the other hand, a 1.5 carat diamond ring would have a slightly larger diameter of around 6.9mm.

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

A 1-carat diamond ring on a hand appears elegant and delicate. The diamond has a width of 6.5mm, taking up approximately 38.4% of the finger's width.

What is the price of a 1 carat diamond ring?

The price of a 1 carat diamond ring can range from $980 to $11,340.

Is a 1 carat diamond ring good enough?

Yes, a 1 carat diamond ring can be considered good enough. It may not have the same level of visual impact as a 2 carat diamond, but it can still be beautiful and desirable. The quality of the diamond, including its cut, clarity, and craftsmanship, will also play a significant role in determining its overall appeal.

Is a 1 carat diamond ring big?

Yes, a 1 carat diamond ring is considered big. The average carat weight for a diamond engagement ring is about 1.2 carats, so a 1 carat diamond is slightly smaller than average. However, it is still a noticeable and eye-catching size. It is not uncommon or difficult to make that size work on your finger.

What does a 1 carat diamond ring weigh?

A 1 carat diamond ring weighs 0.2 grams.

Should I get a 1 carat diamond ring?

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

Is a 1 carat diamond ring too big?

No, a 1 carat diamond ring is not too big.

Is a 1 carat diamond ring small?

A 1 carat diamond ring can be considered small, but it ultimately depends on personal preferences. The size of the diamond can vary in appearance based on the size of the finger it is worn on. Additionally, certain settings like a halo setting can create the illusion of a larger diamond by incorporating smaller diamonds around it.
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