CARAT WEIGHT

Carat is easiest of the 4 C’s to understand and quantify, because it’s simply a matter of weight. One carat has 100 points. So, if a diamond has 75 points, it weighs 0.75 carats. Generally, a diamond’s size increases as its weight increases. But higher carat weight doesn’t mean higher quality. Fine quality is found in diamonds of all carat weights.

At Mervis, we rely on the most accurate electronic scales to determine carat weight. And we never round up or down. You’re told the precise weight of every diamond you inspect. We’ll weigh it right in front of your eyes!

THE QUALITY PYRAMID

 
The Diamond Quality Pyramid illustrates the relationship between the 4 C’s and pricing. The common link is rarity. Rarity is what makes one diamond more expensive than another.

Imagine pouring 100 diamonds into a pyramid-shaped container. They’re all rare, but those available in greater numbers (those with more common 4-C traits) fill up the bottom of the box. As we get closer to the top, the diamonds get rarer. Those at the very top are the rarest of the rare — and, therefore, the most valuable and expensive.

Learn about Diamond Cut
Learn about Diamond Color
Learn about Diamond Clarity