The price of a 1-carat diamond ring can vary greatly depending on factors such as diamond cut, color, clarity, and whether it is natural or lab-grown. In 2025, the price for a 1-carat diamond ring can range from as low as $1,200 to over $17,000, with most good quality pieces falling between $4,000 and $7,500[4][2]. Online retailers often offer lower prices compared to traditional jewelry stores, where a similar quality ring might cost closer to $6,500–$7,500, while the same could be found online for $3,000–$4,000[2]. High-end stones with the best grades in color and clarity (D color, Flawless) can exceed $10,000[2].
Natural diamonds typically command higher prices, with standard 1-carat natural diamonds ranging between $4,000 and $5,300. Lab-grown 1-carat diamonds are significantly more affordable, often available for around $1,000, and clarity-enhanced 1-carat stones usually fall around $3,500[3]. Pre-owned 1-carat diamonds tend to cost one-third to one-sixth of their original retail price, typically ranging from about $2,900 to $4,100 depending on the cut[1].
The cut is one of the most significant price factors, especially for rounds, which are both most popular and also among the priciest. Other popular shapes include oval, princess, emerald, cushion, pear, heart, marquise, asscher, and radiant, each with slightly different average price points[1]. Settings also play a major role in the final price: solitaire, halo, and pave settings are especially popular for 1-carat rings, and a halo setting can make a diamond appear larger than its actual carat weight[6].
Trends have shifted significantly with the rise of lab-grown options, making larger diamonds more attainable for a wider range of budgets. Many buyers continue to use the “one month’s salary” rule as a rough budget for engagement ring purchases, but current incomes and more affordable options mean actual spending varies greatly[5].
Overall, for a 1-carat diamond ring in 2025, expect:
- Natural diamond: $4,000–$7,500 for good quality; $10,000+ for top grades[2][3]
- Lab-grown diamond: ~$1,000[3]
- Pre-owned diamond: Often 1/3 to 1/6 of original price, or $2,900–$4,100[1]
- Setting and brand can further increase the price, sometimes substantially
References
- [1] How much does 1 carat of a pre-owned diamond cost? – Auctentic
- [2] 1 Carat Diamond Ring Price | Buying Guide – Brilliance.com
- [3] Diamond Prices in 2025: A Complete Buyer’s Guide – Shiree Odiz
- [4] How Much Is a 1-Carat Diamond Ring? The Real Cost Revealed
- [5] The Average Price of an Engagement Ring in 2025
- [6] 1 Carat Diamonds – Ritani
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