The word "carat" originated from a natural unit of weight: the seeds of a carob tree.
Diamonds were traditionally weighted against these seeds until the system was standardized
and one carat was fixed at one-fifth of a gram. A carat is divided into 100 "points" so 
that a diamond of 75 points weighs 3/4 of a carat.

The above scale represents the range that each whole size represents. An example would be the 1/2 carat size. As you can see it will range from .45 carat (slightly below a 1/2) to .56ct (slightly above a 1/2). In most cases it make sense to purchase a diamond that falls in the upper part of any size range. The price per carat remains the same and you will get the largest size in the category.

What size is best?
To choose the best carat weight of diamond, consider her style, the size of her finger, the size of your setting and your budget.

• If you have a set budget, explore all you options and you'll find that there is a wide range of diamond carat weights and qualities available in your price range.

• If your recipient is very active or not used to wearing jewelry, she may find herself bumping or nicking her new ring. Consider a smaller size diamond or a setting that protects a larger diamond from getting knocked against doors and counters.

• Also keep in mind that the smaller the finger, the larger the diamond will appear. A 1 1/2 carat diamond solitaire will look much larger on a size 4 finger than a size 8

• If you have already chosen a setting, to make sure you choose a diamond that will fit. Ask any Miner's Den jewelry expert for suggestions on what size will fit the best.

• Finally if a large carat weight is important to you, yet you're working within a budget, consider a diamond with a good cut, lower clarity and higher color.