STORIES - Carat, More Than Just Size

When choosing a diamond, one of the first questions is often:
“How many carats is it?” It’s a natural question, but the word carat is also one of the most misunderstood in jewellery. Why? Because it doesn’t always mean what you think it does.

In fact, carat can refer to two completely different things, depending on whether you're talking about diamonds or gold. Let’s unravel the meaning behind the sparkle.

What Does Carat Mean for Diamonds?

In diamonds, carat refers to weight.
One carat equals 0.2 grams, so a 1.50 ct diamond weighs 0.30 grams.
But here’s where it gets interesting: carat is not the same as size.

Two diamonds can have the same carat weight and look very different. That’s because cut and proportions influence how big a diamond appears and how much it sparkles. A poorly cut 1.00 ct stone might look smaller (and duller) than a beautifully cut 0.90 ct.

At byJACKY, we say: Brilliance over weight. Emotion over numbers.

The “Magic Sizes” and Why Price Jumps

Diamonds aren’t priced per gram. Their value increases exponentially with carat weight, especially around key milestones like 0.50 ct, 1.00 ct, and 1.50 ct.

A 0.98 ct diamond may appear nearly identical to a 1.00 ct stone, but the price difference? Significant. That’s why our guidance often leads to smarter, more beautiful choices that balance aesthetics, value, and personal style.

What About Carat in Gold?

Here’s the twist: when it comes to gold, carat (often spelled karat in the U.S.) refers to purity, not weight.

  • 24-karat gold is 100% pure

  • 18-karat gold is 75% gold + 25% alloy

  • 14-karat gold is 58.5% gold

The higher the carat, the purer, but also the softer the gold. That’s why we often recommend 18K gold: a perfect balance of luxury, durability, and richness.

Same Word, Different Meaning, why?

Both uses of carat come from the same historical source: the carob seed.
In ancient markets, carob seeds were used as natural weights, prized for their consistent mass. Over centuries, the term carat evolved in two directions:

  • In gemstones, it became a standard for weight

  • In gold, it became a measure of purity, dividing gold into 24 parts

So while the word is the same, the meaning depends entirely on the material.
No wonder people get confused, but now you know the difference.

Which Carat Is Right for You?

There’s no “right” number. Only the one that feels right for you.

At byJACKY, we don’t push size, purity, or price points, we explore what suits your lifestyle, your hands, your moments. Whether you're drawn to a clean 0.80 ct solitaire or a radiant 1.20 ct halo, our goal is always the same: To design a piece that reflects you, not a number.

At byJACKY, Carat Is Personal

Whether you're selecting a diamond or choosing your gold, we take the time to explain what you're truly buying not just what it weighs. Because in the world of The Art of Jewellery, every detail tells a story. Book a private appointment, and let us guide you through the world of carats in diamonds, in gold, and in meaning.

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