A simple engagement ring could be all it takes to leap into a lifetime of happiness with another person. However, before you can ask that special someone to spend eternity together, you will need to select a ring and a diamond carat size. Here are three tips for choosing a carat size for an engagement ring.

How to Choose the Right Diamond Carat Size

1. Know What Carats Cost

Budget is always a concern when you’re young and just starting out. Think carefully about how much you have to spend on an engagement ring, and be familiar with the average price of different diamond sizes. Diamonds are priced by weight, with larger, heavier stones costing more than lighter, smaller stones.

As a general rule of thumb, expect to pay under $1,000 for diamonds that are less than a half a carat, around $2,000 for diamonds that are 0.70 carats, and $3,000 to $4,500 for 1-carat stones. If you want a larger stone, 1.5 carats can cost between $5,000 and $9,000, and the price continues to increase with heavier carat weights.

2. Consider the Setting

The setting the diamond will be placed in can dramatically impact the way a stone looks. Smaller, more simple settings are perfect for highlighting the beauty of smaller stones, while settings that combine more than one small stone can turn a budget ring into a real showstopper.

Larger bands may need larger stones to keep the ring looking proportional, while smaller bands make a diamond of any size look larger. Before you settle on carat size, talk with your special someone about what kinds of settings they like.

3. Think About Lifestyle 

Personality type can also impact the appropriate stone size. If your loved one is forgetful or tends to lose things, choosing a large, expensive diamond may be uncomfortable for them. On the other hand, if your soon-to-be-spouse loves jewelry and sparkle, that larger stone would likely mesh perfectly with their aesthetic.

While it may seem uncomfortable, don’t be shy about asking your partner what stone size they would feel comfortable wearing. Ask them to give you a range, so you can purchase a ring that works well for their day-to-day lifestyle.

Whether you are thinking about popping the question or you are ready to upgrade to a larger stone, the team at Schwartz Jewelers can help. Since their inception more than 73 years ago, this trusted jeweler has been helping people to find gorgeous, unique engagement rings that are treasured by their owners. Find out more about how they can help by visiting their website. Call at (513) 541-5627 to speak with a jeweler about your needs.