What is the Average Size of an Engagement Ring?

In terms of engagement rings, it has often be said that size matters.

We are not referring to the circumference of the band itself in this case, as each ring can be fashioned to fit snugly depending upon one’s finger thickness.

We are instead talking about carat weight in terms of the stone.

Is there an “average” size of an Engagement Ring? How are size and price correlated?

Let’s take a look at the answers to these and a handful of other interesting questions so that you can make an informed decision without overstretching your financial comfort zone.

Average Sizes at a Glance

To make things simple, we will first observe that the average size of an engagement ring in the United States is between 1 and 1.5 carats (in terms of the center stone).

It is still important to note that this might not necessarily represent the total weight of the ring.

This is when the acronym CTW comes into play.

CTW is an abbreviation for “total weight” and C represents the carat.

So, CTW is used to determine the total carat weight of all stones within an engagement ring.

This is obviously important if you wish to purchase a single diamond surrounded by other smaller variants.

Size in Relation to Price

It already stands to reason that stones of a larger carat weight will fetch a higher price tag. There are still some other variables to address.

These include:

• Cut
• Color
• Clarity

For example, larger stones with slightly more inclusions (imperfections) may actually be priced cheaper than smaller diamonds that have been rated near flawless.

Be sure to keep this in mind when choosing the size.

Also, it is important to mention that stones of one carat and over are extremely rare.

This obviously leads to a higher price tag.

This is also why we tend to see a large value disparity between smaller stones (such as 0.5 carats) and those over one carat in weight.

Stones of exact carat weights (1.0 carats, 1.5 carats, or 2.5 carats are examples) are extremely rare, so expect to pay more.

This is why it could be wise to purchase a stone with a slightly skewed weight (such as 0.98 or 1.02 carats), as the visual differences are negligible at best.

Feel free to visit this website to further appreciate the different carats and their relative prices.

Can You Visually Increase the “Size” of the Ring?

If you wish to provide the illusion of a larger diamond, you can choose a narrower band, a more subdued setting or surround the center diamond with smaller stones.

This is a great way to enhance its overall elegance while remaining within a budget.

We can therefore see that size is a very important concern when choosing the most appropriate engagement ring.

Still, be sure to purchase a ring which is able to reflect your unique sentiments; ensuring that sentimental value trumps all.

Photo by Brandon Hoogenboom on Unsplash.