Quick and Easy Buying Guide
Carat weight: 1 carat = 200 milligrams = 6.5 mm diameter. Doubling weight doesn't double diameter.
Diamond clarity: FL/IF/VVS/VS = super expensive, near perfect. SI = best value if you can check a photo for obvious inclusions (defects).
Color: D-G = colorless, expensive, only if you have money to burn. H-J = best value. Can go lower in gold metal settings than white metal.
Cut: Better cut ratings let more light into a diamond, making it sparkle more. Very important property, don't skimp here.
Set a budget and minimum cut (Premium). Go J color for gold and I/H for white metals. Go searching for SI1/SI2 clarity diamonds at James Allen. Pick a diamond with small/no inclusions. Choose a ring setting and buy it risk-free (60-day returns).
What Does a 0.24 Carat Diamond Look Like on a Hand?
This 0.24 carat diamond (round shape) has a diameter of about 4.0 mm as shown in the picture. This picture shows a size L 1/2 ring (Britain and other countries ), which is the same as a US size 6 ring. You should be aware that picture such as this one are just that - only illustrative - women's hand sizes will vary quite a bit. Also take into account the length and breadth of your fingers. The "first impressions" size of the diamond is influenced by what it is shown against - the hand - a tiny hand will cause the diamond to appear significantly larger and vice versa.