1 Carat Diamond Price Guide
Last updated: · Prices move daily
How much should a 1 carat diamond cost? Search and you'll see answers from $800 to $16,000, for what sounds like the same stone. The spread comes from six variables: natural vs. lab-grown, cut, color, clarity, shape, and retailer.
Below are live retail medians from certified diamonds, what actually drives the cost, and how to get the most diamond for your money. Prices move daily, so treat the figures as today's snapshot and check live listings before you buy.
1 Carat Diamond Prices by Shape
Live medians · 0.95–1.05 ct · D–H color · VVS1–SI1 clarity · Very Good + Excellent cut
| Shape | Natural | Lab-grown |
|---|---|---|
| Marquise | $4,205 | $1,020 |
| Pear | $3,890 | $1,030 |
| Oval | $3,710 | $1,055 |
| Round | $3,220 | $820 |
| Emerald | $3,140 | $1,040 |
| Radiant | $2,765 | $1,060 |
| Heart | $2,590 | $1,080 |
| Asscher | $2,420 | $1,100 |
| Princess | $2,400 | $1,030 |
| Cushion | $2,395 | $1,070 |
Quick Answers
How much should I spend on a 1 carat diamond?
For well-cut D–H / VVS1–SI1 / Very Good + Excellent stones, live medians run $2,395–$4,205 natural and $820–$1,100 lab-grown depending on shape; a round is $3,220 natural vs $820 lab-grown.
Is a lab-grown 1 carat diamond worth it?
Identical crystal, 75% less like for like (3.9× on round). The trade-off is resale value, not beauty.
What matters most in a 1 carat diamond?
Cut first, then the lowest color and clarity that still looks perfect to your eye.