Diamond Price Estimator
Use this calculator to get an estimated price for a diamond based on its key characteristics (the 4 Cs) and shape. Please note that this is an estimation, and actual market prices can vary significantly based on specific vendors, certification labs, fluorescence, and current market conditions.
Estimated Diamond Price:
Understanding Diamond Value: The 4 Cs and Shape
The value of a diamond is primarily determined by a universal grading system known as the "4 Cs": Carat, Cut, Color, and Clarity. Additionally, the diamond's shape plays a significant role in its price per carat.
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 a heavier diamond is generally larger. As carat weight increases, the price per carat typically rises exponentially, not linearly, due to the rarity of larger diamonds.
- Example: A 1.00 carat diamond will cost significantly more than two 0.50 carat diamonds of similar quality.
2. Cut Grade
The cut of a diamond refers to how well its facets interact with light. This is arguably the most crucial of the 4 Cs, as it dictates a diamond's brilliance, fire, and sparkle. A well-cut diamond will reflect light optimally, creating a dazzling display. Cut grades range from Excellent (or Ideal) to Poor.
- Excellent/Ideal: Maximizes brilliance and fire.
- Very Good: Reflects most light, very good brilliance.
- Good: Reflects a good amount of light, but not as much as higher grades.
- Fair/Poor: Significant light leakage, resulting in less brilliance.
A diamond with an Excellent cut can appear larger and more vibrant than a larger diamond with a lesser cut grade.
3. Color Grade
Diamond color refers to the absence of color. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) color grading scale ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Truly colorless diamonds (D, E, F) are the rarest and most expensive.
- D-F: Colorless – The highest grades, no discernible color.
- G-J: Near Colorless – Appear colorless to the untrained eye, especially when mounted. G and H are popular choices for value.
- K-M: Faint Yellow – A noticeable tint.
- N-Z: Very Light to Light Yellow – Increasingly noticeable color.
The setting metal can sometimes influence how a diamond's color appears; for instance, a yellow gold setting can make a slightly warmer diamond (like an I or J) appear whiter.
4. Clarity Grade
Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws). Most diamonds have some imperfections, but many are microscopic and don't affect the diamond's beauty. The GIA clarity scale includes:
- FL (Flawless): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Extremely rare.
- IF (Internally Flawless): No inclusions, only minor blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
- VVS1, VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included): Inclusions are extremely difficult to see under 10x magnification.
- VS1, VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Inclusions are minor and difficult to somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification. Often "eye-clean."
- SI1, SI2 (Slightly Included): Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification and may be visible to the naked eye in SI2.
- I1, I2, I3 (Included): Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and typically visible to the naked eye, potentially affecting transparency and brilliance.
For excellent value, many choose VS2 or SI1 diamonds that are "eye-clean," meaning their inclusions are not visible without magnification.
Diamond Shape
While not one of the 4 Cs, the diamond's shape significantly impacts its price and overall aesthetic. Round brilliant diamonds are the most popular and generally the most expensive per carat due to demand and the amount of rough diamond lost during cutting. Fancy shapes (non-round) like Princess, Emerald, Oval, Cushion, and Pear can offer a larger appearance for the same carat weight and often come at a lower price per carat.
- Round Brilliant: Most popular, maximum brilliance, highest price per carat.
- Princess Cut: Square or rectangular, good brilliance, popular alternative.
- Emerald Cut: Rectangular with stepped facets, known for elegance and clarity.
- Oval Cut: Elongated round, offers a larger surface area.
- Cushion Cut: Square or rectangular with rounded corners, a blend of classic and modern.
How the Calculator Works (Estimation)
This calculator uses a simplified model where a base price per carat for a "reference" diamond (e.g., a 1-carat, G color, VS2 clarity, Very Good cut, Round Brilliant) is adjusted by multipliers for each of the selected characteristics. Higher grades (e.g., D color, FL clarity, Excellent cut) will have higher multipliers, increasing the estimated price, while lower grades will have lower multipliers.
Important Disclaimer: This calculator provides a rough estimate for educational purposes. Real diamond prices are influenced by many factors not included here, such as specific vendor pricing, certification lab (GIA, AGS, IGI, etc.), fluorescence, market demand, and microscopic nuances not captured by standard grades. Always consult with a reputable jeweler for accurate pricing.