What is a carat?
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What is a carat?
A carat is a unit of measurement for the mass of gemstones, equal to 200 milligrams (0.2 grams). In the case of laboratory-created diamonds, the carat determines the weight and, accordingly, the physical size of the stone: for example, a 1-carat diamond weighs 0.2 grams and is significantly larger and more brilliant than a diamond of a lower weight. In addition, “carat” is also used for gold - 24-carat gold is almost pure (about 99.99%), while at lower values (e.g. 10K, 14K or 18K) the percentage of pure gold decreases, affecting the so-called fineness of the metal. This dual use makes the concept of “carat” key for both diamond jewelry and gold products.
Carat in lab-grown diamonds
For lab-grown diamonds, carat is the leading factor in size and value. 1 carat is 0.2 grams of pure diamond, so the higher the carat weight, the larger the stone is physically. For example, a diamond necklace with a 1-carat stone will look significantly larger and more impressive than a necklace with a 0.5-carat diamond. Additionally, a 1-carat diamond is usually more expensive than two smaller diamonds of 0.5 carats each, even though their total weight is the same (1 carat) – the larger stone is valued higher.
Fine lab-grown diamonds often adorn fine jewelry such as a diamond necklace , where a small 0.2-carat stone adds a delicate sparkle. For a more dramatic look, larger stones are used – for example, diamond necklaces with 1–2 carat center diamonds, which provide an impressive visual effect. When designing diamond earrings , the total carat weight is usually indicated (for example, 0.50 carats for a pair) – as it increases, the earrings become larger and more luminous. Here, the carat directly determines how much sparkle and impressiveness each piece will have.
Karat – purity of gold
In gold jewelry, the karat indicates how much pure gold is in the alloy. One karat is 1/24 of the weight of the alloy, so 24-karat gold is 99.99% pure, and 12-karat is 50%. The lower the karat number, the higher the proportion of other metals in the alloy, making the items stronger for everyday wear.
- 24 carat: 99.99% pure gold.
- 18 carat: 75.00% pure gold.
- 14 carat: 58.50% pure gold.
- 10 carats: 41.70% pure gold
18-karat and 14-karat alloys (750 and 585) are most commonly used in jewelry, as they combine the excellent purity of gold with durability and strength. This allows Karat to create jewelry that is both luxurious and suitable for everyday wear.
Karat – a fusion of diamonds and gold
The Karat brand unites two universes in one – the brilliance of high-tech diamonds and the perfection of gold jewelry. At Karat, we strive for impeccable quality and innovation at the highest level and guarantee top performance in every detail: from the precise carat weight of the diamonds to the fine 14-karat gold alloy. The result - jewelry with top design, uncompromising craftsmanship and a true luxury spirit.
Our values are clearly defined: innovation, precision and aesthetics without compromise. At Karat, we pride ourselves on offering not only beautiful diamond necklaces and earrings, but also long-lasting, sustainable products that inspire confidence. Each of our jewelry is crafted with attention to detail – so that it will delight you for a long time and make you feel special, just as you are.