An expert guide to purchasing a 3ct Diamond Ring

When it comes to purchasing a 3 carat diamond ring, you're entering a world of luxury. However, navigating this realm can initially feel overwhelming, with such a large purchase at stake. In this expert guide, we'll answer some pressing questions you may have and hope to provide you with a better understanding of the information and confidence when choosing your Diamond.

Why have 3ct Diamond rings become so popular?

The allure of 3-carat diamond rings has soared in popularity for several reasons. The influence of social media and the penchant for larger engagement rings in America, where they typically opt for diamonds 40% larger than those in the UK, have contributed to this trend.

There are also many celebrities that have been showcasing their 3ct engagements rings such as Victoria Beckham's 3 carat marquise cut Diamond and Simone Biles stunning 3 carat round brilliant cut ring. Not to mention names like Charlie Puth and Emily Blunt have also joined the 3-carat Diamond club, adding to their popularity.

3ct Emerald Cut Diamond Ring

Are 3ct Diamonds rare?

Quite simply, yes. A vast majority of mined diamonds—only 30%—meet the quality standards for use in jewellery, 1.5% of Diamonds mined are over 2ct and less 0.01% of those Diamonds are G colour and VS clarity or above. This highlights the extraordinary rarity of high-quality and larger, 3 carat Diamonds.

Is a 3 carat Diamond considered big?

A 3ct natural Diamond is considered a luxury engagement ring size, well above the national and London average. A 3ct Diamond is sure to produce a statement engagement ring, worthy of a red carpet. However, they are often out of the price range for the majority, so we would advise, when looking for large Diamonds, to not lower the quality specifications too far, to be able to reach this magic marker of 3 carat size.

How much should I pay for a 3ct Diamond?

It wouldn’t be unreasonable to expect a 3 carat Diamond would cost twice as much as a 1.50ct one, but the reality is more complex. As carat weight increases, the rarity of Diamonds in that size and their price both escalate exponentially.

As a comparison, a 3 carat Diamond can cost over four times as much as a 1.5 carat Diamond with similar specifications. The price range for a natural 3 carat Diamond ring typically falls between £10,000 to £300,000, depending on the Diamond's specific characteristics, so it’s important to consider specifications when seeking the ideal ring within your budget.

3 carat Diamond shoulder engagement ring

Important factors when choosing a 3ct Diamond engagement ring

-Define a comfortable price range before you start looking. If you over-stretch your budget, you may view larger and higher specification Diamonds that could potentially tarnish your view of the beauty of lower specification Diamonds, if you later adjust your budget.

-Decide what you want out of the ring, is size more important than the quality? If you’re unsure, ask to view a variety of specifications and sizes within your budget to help establish your preference.

-Don’t forget about the cut quality of the Diamond. This is not solely just the cut grade on the certificate. Some Diamonds can be cut deep, meaning they look smaller to the eye from the top. A deeply cut Diamond will have poorer light performance, so not only will it appear smaller, it can be far less sparkly and bright. We would advise to keep within the below depth percentages to maximise the aesthetics of your Diamond choice:

The depth percentage details will be part of the information listed on a GIA grading report, as well as most other laboratory reports.

Which Diamond shape is best in a 3 carat engagement ring?

The best Diamond shape for a 3-carat engagement ring largely depends on personal preference. Some shapes can be more suitable based on your price range and the specifications you are looking for.

For example, a 3ct Emerald cut Diamond often shows more a prominent yellow colour than a round brilliant and will also show inclusions easily, owing to their glacial minimalist cutting style.

If you are stretching your budget, a fancy shape with a modified brilliant cut facet arrangement may be worth considering, as some fancy-shape Diamonds are slightly cheaper and a modified brilliant cut facet arrangement can help disguise a lower colour and clarity.

Another perk to a fancy shape Diamond is they can look bigger, such as Ovals, Pears and Marquise Diamonds, owing to their longer, slender shape with a shallower depth. Asscher cuts and princess cut Diamond have a slightly deeper facet arrangement as standard, so they can look slightly smaller to the eye compared to a round brilliant cut Diamond of the same size.

What about sustainable 3 carat engagement rings?

We are seeing a large increase in those seeking a sustainable, low-environmental impact option when searching for the perfect 3 carat Diamond engagement ring.

There is no better option than a pre-owned Diamond. This doesn’t mean you have to purchase a pre-owned engagement ring, many people choose to buy a pre-owned Diamond and then custom design their dream ring around it, giving them both a sustainable and personally tailored engagement ring.

Second hand Diamonds not only reduce further demand on mining of new stones but can also provide better value for money, meaning you may be able to increase the size of the Diamond, or choose one of a higher specification that may have otherwise been out of reach in comparison to a new Diamond engagement ring.

3 carat brilliant cut solitaire ring

Where is best to purchase a 3 carat Diamond engagement ring?

With such a large purchase, it’s crucial to view the Diamonds in person as it is the only way to be able to truly examine the liveliness of the Diamond and its true beauty.

Research a company with expertise in large Diamonds, who can guide you through the process, they should be able to show you a good selection of options to compare and advise on Diamond nuances that can be very difficult to understand and appreciate through photographs and videos alone.

When purchasing a 3ct Diamond ring, the quality and service is paramount, not limited to the viewing and purchase of the engagement ring, but also the after-sales service and advise that can be offered on care of the ring, maintenance, and insurance.

If you are looking to purchase a 3ct natural Diamond engagement ring and would like any further questions or advise, just drop us an email to info@hattonjewels.com or call us on 0203 116 0069 and one of our friendly expert team will be happy to help.