1 Carat Lab Grown Diamond Price Guide
December 22, 2025
If you're considering a 1 carat lab-grown diamond, you're in for a treat. Not only do these diamonds offer the same brilliance and sparkle as their natural counterparts, but they also come at a more affordable price point.
Generally, a 1 carat lab grown diamond is often priced below $1,500 for the loose stone, with many options commonly ranging from about $437 to $1,561, depending on cut, colour, clarity, and shape. If you are buying a complete engagement ring (diamond plus setting), a typical total range is about $1,500 to $3,000.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the 1 carat lab-grown diamond price, helping you make an informed and confident purchase.
Factors Influencing 1- Carat Lab Grown Diamond Price
Several factors influence the price of a 1 carat lab-grown diamond. These include:
Diamond quality matters most. The 4 Cs, cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight, still drive value. A stone with stronger sparkle from a better cut, a whiter face up appearance, and fewer visible inclusions will usually cost more.
Certification can raise the price. Diamonds graded by well known labs such as GIA or IGI are often priced higher because the report gives buyers confidence in what they are purchasing.
How the diamond is grown also plays a role. The growth method, such as HPHT or CVD, along with production efficiency and finishing quality, can influence pricing and availability.
Shape and demand. Some shapes can cost more than others at the same carat weight because demand is higher or cutting yields are lower. For example, popular fancy shapes may be priced differently than round stones.
Cut details and visual performance. Two diamonds with the same cut grade can still look different. Light performance, symmetry, and how the stone handles reflections can affect sparkle and pricing.
Key Factors Influencing the Price of a 1 Carat Lab-Grown Diamond
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Cut Quality | Higher quality = Higher price |
| Color Grade | More colorless = Higher price |
| Clarity Grade | Fewer inclusions = Higher price |
| Certification | Certified diamonds = Higher price |
| Production Method | HPHT or CVD affects cost |
Average Price Range
On average, a 1 carat lab grown diamond is now often priced in the hundreds to the low thousands (USD) for the loose stone, with many options commonly falling around $437 to $1,561 depending on cut, colour, clarity, and shape. Pricing can still shift based on certification, brand or retailer pricing, and how the diamond was produced. A comparable natural 1 carat diamond is typically priced much higher, often landing in the several thousand dollars range or more, depending on quality and market conditions.
For more options, you can explore our lab-grown diamond engagement rings.
Here's a table that outlines the estimated prices of 1 carat lab-grown diamonds based on cut quality, color, and clarity:
| Cut Quality | Color Grade | Clarity Grade | Updated Price Range (Loose 1 Carat Lab Diamond, USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excellent | D | VVS1 | $1,350 - $1,561 |
| Excellent | E | VVS2 | $1,200 - $1,350 |
| Excellent | F | VS1 | $1,050 - $1,200 |
| Very Good | G | VS2 | $850 - $1,050 |
| Very Good | H | SI1 | $650 - $850 |
| Good | I | SI2 | $500 - $650 |
| Good | J | I1 | $437 - $500 |
1 Carat Lab Grown Diamond Price Table
| Buying level | What it usually includes | Loose 1.00 ct lab diamond price (USD) | 1 ct ring total (diamond + setting) (USD) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry value | Good overall specs, may compromise on cut precision or clarity | $437 to $650 | $1,000 to $1,700 | Budget shoppers who still want a real diamond look |
| Best value sweet spot | Strong cut, faces up bright, looks clean to the eye | $650 to $1,000 | $1,500 to $2,400 | Most buyers who want beauty and smart pricing |
| Premium look | Higher colour and clarity, excellent make, better optics | $1,000 to $1,561 | $2,200 to $3,037 | Luxury finish with noticeable sparkle upgrades |
| High grade round examples | Top quality round, premium cut performance | Around $1,500 | Often $2,500+ | Buyers prioritising top sparkle and refinement |
Note: Prices are typical market ranges and can change based on cut quality, colour, clarity, shape, certification, and retailer policies.
Practical buying targets for an oval 1 carat lab diamond
If you are aiming for an elegant, high end look without overspending, focus on choices that give the biggest visual impact. A smart size range is usually 1.00 to 1.10 carats, because you get a beautiful presence without paying a large premium for extra weight.
Instead of chasing the highest grades on paper, choose a diamond that looks bright and clean in real life. For ovals, many buyers start with a length to width ratio around 1.35 to 1.50 and adjust based on whether they prefer a slightly wider or more elongated shape. Finally, always review videos and multiple angles to check for a dark shadow across the center, because it can vary from one diamond to another.
Expert Tips for Buying a 1 Carat Lab-Grown Diamond
When shopping for a 1 carat lab-grown diamond, it's essential to approach the process with knowledge and confidence. Here are some expert tips to help you make the best choice:
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Understand the 4 Cs: Familiarize yourself with the four key factors that determine a diamond's quality: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. This understanding will help you evaluate different options and find the best diamond for your budget.
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Prioritize Cut Quality: The cut of the diamond significantly affects its brilliance and sparkle. Opt for a diamond with an excellent cut grade to ensure it shines beautifully.
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Choose Color Wisely: While colorless diamonds are stunning, consider slightly tinted options (such as G or H grade) to save money without compromising much on appearance. These diamonds can still look incredible in settings.
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Focus on Clarity: Look for diamonds with minor inclusions that are not visible to the naked eye. A clarity grade of VS1 or VS2 typically offers an excellent balance between quality and price.
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Check Certification: Always choose a diamond that comes with a certification from a reputable organization like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI). This certification ensures that the diamond has been accurately graded.
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Consider Setting and Style: The setting can enhance the diamond's appearance. Explore different styles and materials to find a setting that complements the diamond and suits your personal taste.
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Understand Pricing Trends: Familiarize yourself with current market prices for lab-grown diamonds. Prices can fluctuate based on demand and trends, so knowing what to expect will help you identify a fair deal.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 1 carat lab-grown diamond is a fantastic way to get a beautiful, high-quality diamond at a more accessible price. Whether you're shopping for an engagement ring, a special gift, or a personal treat, lab-grown diamonds offer exceptional value without compromising on beauty or quality.
If you have any questions or need further assistance in your search for the perfect diamond, feel free to reach out LL Private Jewellers, we offer a wide selection of 1 carat lab grown diamonds at competitive prices.
