The value of a diamond is determined by a complex interplay of factors, famously encapsulated by the "4 Cs": Carat Weight, Cut, Color, and Clarity. While a full appraisal requires expert examination, this calculator provides a simplified estimation based on the most significant price drivers: Carat Weight and the market-driven Price Per Carat. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is a leading authority in diamond grading, and their standards are widely recognized in the industry.
How the Calculator Works:
This calculator uses a straightforward formula to estimate the total price of a diamond:
Carat Weight: This refers to the physical weight of the diamond. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams. Larger diamonds are rarer and thus generally command higher prices per carat.
Price Per Carat: This is the market value assigned to a single carat of a diamond with specific characteristics (Cut, Color, Clarity, and even Shape, Fluorescence, etc.). This value fluctuates based on market demand, the diamond's specific grade for the other Cs, and its overall appeal.
The core calculation is:
Total Diamond Price = Carat Weight × Price Per Carat
Example:
Let's consider a GIA-certified diamond:
Carat Weight: 1.50 carats
Price Per Carat: $6,500 (This would reflect a diamond with a good combination of color, clarity, and cut, as graded by GIA standards).
Using the formula:
Total Diamond Price = 1.50 ct × $6,500/ct = $9,750.00
The calculator would output an estimated price of $9,750.00 for this diamond.
Important Considerations:
This calculator provides a foundational estimate. The actual market value of a diamond can vary significantly due to:
GIA Grade (Cut, Color, Clarity): The specific grades for Cut (Excellent, Very Good, etc.), Color (D-Z scale), and Clarity (Flawless to Included) dramatically influence the price per carat. A higher grade for any of these factors increases value.
Diamond Shape: Round brilliant diamonds typically command higher prices than fancy shapes (e.g., princess, emerald, oval) of equivalent quality due to cutting wastage and demand.
Fluorescence: The presence and strength of fluorescence can affect appearance and price.
Market Conditions: Supply, demand, and economic factors influence diamond pricing.
Certification: While this calculator assumes a GIA context, the presence and authenticity of a GIA report are crucial.
For an accurate valuation, always consult with a certified gemologist or appraiser, preferably one who can examine the diamond in person and verify its GIA report.
function calculateDiamondPrice() {
var caratWeightInput = document.getElementById("caratWeight");
var pricePerCaratInput = document.getElementById("pricePerCarat");
var resultValueDiv = document.getElementById("result-value");
var caratWeight = parseFloat(caratWeightInput.value);
var pricePerCarat = parseFloat(pricePerCaratInput.value);
if (isNaN(caratWeight) || caratWeight <= 0) {
alert("Please enter a valid Carat Weight (must be a positive number).");
caratWeightInput.focus();
return;
}
if (isNaN(pricePerCarat) || pricePerCarat < 0) {
alert("Please enter a valid Price Per Carat (must be a non-negative number).");
pricePerCaratInput.focus();
return;
}
var totalDiamondPrice = caratWeight * pricePerCarat;
// Format the result to two decimal places with a dollar sign
resultValueDiv.textContent = "$" + totalDiamondPrice.toFixed(2);
}