Diamonds are usually bought to express love and commitment. They symbolize how big our love for someone is. Therefore, size does matter.
You can measure diamonds in carat weight and millimeters. Even though most people buy diamonds based only on their carat weight, you should consider millimeter measurements, as well. In this way, you’ll be 100% sure that you’re getting the best possible deal.
What Is 15-Carat Diamond Size?
A diamond of 15-carat size is rather hard to determine. All 15-carat diamonds weigh the same, but their actual physical size can differ significantly depending on their cut and shape. How come?
Well, diamond weight is always expressed in carats. The formula is constant, so all you need to do is apply it. One carat equals 200 milligrams — no matter what. Hence, a 15-carat diamond undoubtedly weighs 3 grams (15 x 200 = 3000mg = 3g).
The weight is super easy to determine, too. Every jeweler or gemologist has sophisticated measuring equipment to do it. If you have a jeweler scale, you can do it, too.
Unfortunately, determining the physical size of a 15-carat diamond is not as straightforward. There is no easy formula to translate diamond weight into millimeters or centimeters.
As a result, two 15-carat diamonds may appear quite different and vary in value significantly, as well. When mounted, one 15-carat stone can seem much larger or be far more expensive than the other, even though they both weigh 3 grams.
How Big Is 15-Carat Diamond?
Stone size seems to be the main query of diamond shoppers in jewelry stores. Sellers have a hard time replying, though.
I honestly believe that no girl would ever be disappointed with a 15-carat diamond, no matter its exact measurements. Still, even I cannot deny that, when it comes to diamonds, we all shop to impress. People might not be able to tell if a diamond cut is ideal, but they are always wowed by a big center stone.
Let me warn you, though: the bigger the size of the stone, the easier it is to see if it is of poor quality. Hence, to make a big impression, you should concentrate on finding a well-cut center stone. In my humble opinion, you should always consider all 4 Cs. It is the only way to define how much a 15-carat diamond is worth.
Let’s get back to the main question — the size of a 15-carat diamond.
As we have already mentioned, knowing the carat value will not help you specify how big a diamond looks. Diamonds can carry their weight in their height and depth; it is not always spread across their diameter.
The physical size of a 15-carat diamond is influenced by two things.
- Cut
Some diamonds are cut more deeply than others. Consequently, the weight remains “hidden” in the bottom part of the stone.
Besides, deep-cut diamonds do not reflect light as well as other options and often appear dull. You should choose a diamond within the following depth percentage ranges:
| The Shape of the Diamond | Ideal Depth Range |
|---|---|
| Round | 59–63% |
| Princess | 68–74% |
| Cushion | 61–68% |
| Emerald | 61–68% |
| Oval | 53–63% |
| Pear | 53–65% |
| Marquise | 58–62% |
- Shape
Diamonds of the same carat weight have different measurements depending on their shape. For example, a one-carat round diamond measures around 6.5 mm in diameter, while a one-carat square-cut diamond like a Princess or Cushion measures approximately 5.5 mm wide.
Fancy-shaped diamonds, such as the oval, pear, radiant, and emerald, are defined by their length. For instance, a one-carat emerald diamond is typically 7 mm long, while a one-carat oval diamond is approximately 7.7 mm long.
The longest and thinnest diamonds are marquise diamonds. A one-carat marquise diamond measures 10 mm long.
As you can see, a 15-carat oval or marquise diamond will appear much bigger than a princess diamond of equal weight. Slender shapes are generally the best choice you can make when aiming to get a bigger-looking stone for a minimal amount of money. They have the same depth percentage as round stones plus the extra length!
| The Shape of the Diamond | Carat Weight | Size in Millimeters |
|---|---|---|
| Round | 1 carat | 6.5mm |
| Princess | 1 carat | 5.5mm |
| Asscher | 1 carat | 5.5mm |
| Heart | 1 carat | 6.7mm |
| Square Cushion | 1 carat | 5.9mm |
| Oval | 1 carat | 7.7mm x 5.7mm |
| Pear | 1 carat | 7.7mm x 5.7mm |
| Marquise | 1 carat | 10mm x 5mm |
| Radiant | 1 carat | 6mm x 5.5mm |
What Does a 15-Carat Diamond Look Like?
The shortest answer possible is big and beautiful! Such a valuable diamond, especially a well-cut one, should wow even the most persnickety ladies.
As we have already established, much depends on the shape and cut you choose. The selection can sometimes be quite overwhelming, even for experienced diamond shoppers.
If you are deciding on an engagement ring, things can be even more challenging. There are so many ring designs to choose from. You have to think of what the lady you are proposing to would like to wear on her finger for the rest of her life (fingers crossed!).
Since a 15-carat diamond weighs around 3 grams, a ring that carries it must weigh at least 6 grams. Take that into consideration, as well. Not every girl will appreciate wearing such a monumental stone. For small-handed ladies, a 15-carat whooper might be too much to handle.
Final Thoughts
No two diamonds carry their weight exactly the same. Two stones of the same weight and different shapes can look (and cost) infinitely different.
The only way to specify the 15-carat diamond size with precision is to actually measure it. However, knowing the weight and the cut and shape of a diamond can help you determine its approximate size. In my opinion, that should suffice.
After all, even though the weight and size greatly influence the final price of the stone, numerous other factors make up an exquisite diamond. If you want to find a unique, breathtaking piece, you ought to consider the diamond’s overall grade.
Have I helped you find a perfect 15-carat diamond? I sure hope so. Feel free to convey your thoughts in the comments! If you like what you have read, share the article, too.
