Diamond Price Estimator
Use this calculator to get an estimated price for a loose diamond based on its 4 C's: Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut. Please note that this is an estimation, and actual prices can vary significantly based on market conditions, specific vendors, certification, fluorescence, and other factors.
Understanding Diamond Pricing: The 4 Cs
The price of a diamond is primarily determined by its unique characteristics, universally known as the "4 Cs": Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut. This calculator provides an estimate based on these factors, offering a starting point for understanding diamond value.
1. Carat Weight
Carat is the standard unit of weight for diamonds. One carat equals 200 milligrams. It's important to note that carat refers to weight, not size, although heavier diamonds are generally larger. Diamond prices do not increase linearly with carat weight; larger diamonds are rarer and thus command a significantly higher price per carat. For example, a 2-carat diamond will typically cost much more than double the price of a 1-carat diamond of similar quality.
2. Color Grade
Diamond color is graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The less color a diamond possesses, the rarer and more valuable it is. D, E, and F are considered "colorless," G, H, I, and J are "near colorless," and K-M show "faint color." Our calculator uses multipliers that increase for higher (more colorless) grades.
3. Clarity Grade
Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external imperfections). The GIA clarity scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). Diamonds with fewer and smaller inclusions are rarer and more valuable. The grades are:
- FL: Flawless
- IF: Internally Flawless
- VVS1, VVS2: Very, Very Slightly Included
- VS1, VS2: Very Slightly Included
- SI1, SI2: Slightly Included
- I1, I2, I3: Included
Our calculator assigns higher multipliers to diamonds with better clarity grades.
4. Cut Grade
The cut of a diamond is arguably the most crucial of the 4 Cs, as it dictates how well a diamond interacts with light. A well-cut diamond will exhibit exceptional brilliance (white light), fire (spectral colors), and scintillation (sparkle). The GIA cut grade for standard round brilliant diamonds ranges from Excellent to Poor. This calculator uses cut grades to adjust the estimated price, with "Excellent" cuts receiving the highest multiplier.
How the Calculator Works (Simplified Model)
This calculator uses a simplified model to estimate diamond prices. It takes a base price per carat for a reference diamond (e.g., a 1.00 carat, G color, VS2 clarity, Good cut diamond) and then applies various multipliers based on your selected Carat Weight, Color Grade, Clarity Grade, and Cut Grade. The carat weight is also factored in with an exponent to reflect the non-linear increase in price for larger diamonds.
Important Disclaimer
The prices generated by this calculator are estimates only. The actual market price of a diamond can be influenced by many additional factors not included in this simplified model, such as:
- Certification Lab: Diamonds certified by reputable labs like GIA or AGS often command higher prices due to their strict grading standards.
- Fluorescence: The presence and intensity of fluorescence can affect price.
- Polish and Symmetry: These aspects of a diamond's finish can impact its overall beauty and price.
- Market Conditions: Supply and demand, economic factors, and vendor pricing strategies all play a role.
- Shape: Fancy shapes (e.g., princess, oval, emerald) are often priced differently than round brilliant diamonds. This calculator assumes a round brilliant cut.
Always consult with a reputable jeweler for an accurate valuation of any specific diamond.
Examples:
Let's look at a few examples using the calculator's logic:
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A Standard 1-Carat Diamond:
- Carat Weight: 1.00 ct
- Color Grade: G
- Clarity Grade: VS2
- Cut Grade: Excellent
- Estimated Price: Around $5,625.00
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A High-Quality, Larger Diamond:
- Carat Weight: 1.50 ct
- Color Grade: E
- Clarity Grade: VVS1
- Cut Grade: Excellent
- Estimated Price: Around $21,970.00
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A More Budget-Friendly Diamond:
- Carat Weight: 0.75 ct
- Color Grade: I
- Clarity Grade: SI1
- Cut Grade: Good
- Estimated Price: Around $1,716.12