Some diamond jewelry can seem surprisingly cheap. It seems that a ring with 10 diamonds inlaid in it would cost as much as a house – but no, it can be purchased without breaking the budget. So a fair question arises: What does the price of small diamonds consist of? Why are they cheaper than the big ones? 

To answer this question, it is necessary to tell what makes up the price of larger diamonds. After all, diamonds are always diamonds, regardless of size. That is why the price of small diamonds is influenced by the same factors that influence the price of large diamonds: clarity, color, density, and quality. 

The price and value of small diamonds

Let’s talk about the value of small diamonds. What is the difference between large and small diamonds for the customer? 

The difference between small and large diamonds is the difference between a simple engagement ring and a ring that is so dazzling in its shine and glamor that it catches the attention of everyone around it. It’s the difference between casual jewelry and a real family heirloom that will be passed down from generation to generation. It’s the difference between a pleasing to the eye design and a luxurious, shiny, intricate, glamorous look. 

When it comes to a magnificent luxury ring, it can only be achieved with large diamonds. Small diamonds will remain diamonds, they will sparkle in the light, but unfortunately, they mostly lack that expensive glamor and prestige. 

But the choice of jewelry is not only based on emotions, but also on reason. Поэтому поговорим о цифрах. It is important to understand that small diamonds are purchased not individually, but in batches, of course, from reliable miners and suppliers. They are sorted by cut, color, size, and clarity. A jeweler, when ordering small diamonds, receives “parcels” of dozens and hundreds of roughly identical stones – and their characteristics are of paramount importance in creating elegant jewelry. 

What does the price of small diamonds consist of?

If we talk only in figures, the price of small diamonds varies depending on the quality of the stone, which, in turn, is determined by the following factors: 

  • Color. The most valuable stones are colorless. If there is even a little yellowing, the value goes down. 
  • Clarity. Flawless diamonds are very rare. Most stones have inclusions of some kind. If the defects are not visible to the naked eye, the diamond will be more expensive than one with flaws. 
  • Cut. Most small diamonds are cut either in a single cut (17-18 facets) or a full cut (57-58 facets) method. The second option is preferable – it adds shine, brilliance, and a special halo of light called “pavé”. Single-cut diamonds are usually used in low-cost jewelry, watches, and bracelets. 
  • Carat weight. The price of small diamonds in carats is much lower than that of large diamonds. For example, the price of one carat stone will be at least 10 times higher than the price of a scattering of small diamonds with a total weight of one carat. 

Cut, color, size and clarity affect the price of diamonds – and, as a consequence, on the cost of jewelry with them.

The reason why large diamonds are much more expensive than small ones is quite simple: scarcity. Large diamonds are very rare. That is why the task of jewelers is to emphasize their beauty by using sophisticated cutting techniques. The cost also increases in proportion to clarity. If a stone has no visible inclusions at all, its price will be quite high. 

For this reason, when buying diamonds as an investment, it is important to understand three parameters: carat weight, color, and clarity. 

Small diamonds, despite their size are still diamonds, can add sparkle, shine, and “wow-effect” to jewelry. For example, they can surround a large center stone, visually increasing its size. That’s why small diamonds are often used in rings, bracelets, earrings, pendants, and other stunning jewelry. They are, if I may say so, a great way to get more shine for your money!

So, how valuable are small diamonds? Their value depends largely on the talent of the jeweler. They help to create beautiful, impressive, bright and spectacular jewelry. And although the diamonds themselves are small, they can certainly have a huge impact.