When shopping for fine jewelry, especially diamond or gemstone pieces, carat size is one of the most important factors to consider. But what does "carat" really mean, and how does it affect the look, value, and wearability of your jewelry? Let’s break it down.

What is a Carat?

A carat (ct) is a unit of weight used to measure diamonds and gemstones. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams (200 milligrams). The term originates from the carob seed, which was historically used as a standard for weighing precious stones.

Carat Weight vs. Size

Many buyers assume that a higher carat weight always means a bigger-looking stone, but that’s not entirely true. The visual size of a gemstone is also affected by:

• Cut: A well-cut diamond or gemstone reflects more light, making it appear larger than a poorly cut stone of the same weight.
• Shape: Certain shapes (like oval, marquise, and pear) create the illusion of a larger stone compared to round or cushion cuts of the same carat weight.
• Setting: A halo or bezel setting can enhance the perceived size of a gemstone.

Here’s a general guide to how different carat weights translate to diameter in millimeters for round diamonds (other shapes may vary):

Carat Weight

Approx. Diameter (mm)

0.25 ct. – 4.1 mm
0.50 ct. – 5.1 mm
0.75 ct. – 5.8 mm
1.00 ct. – 6.4 mm
1.50 ct. – 7.4 mm
2.00 ct. – 8.1 mm
3.00 ct. – 9.4 mm

Note: The actual appearance can vary depending on cut and shape.

Bigger Isn’t Always Better

While a higher carat weight often increases the value of a gemstone, bigger doesn’t always mean better. A well-cut, high-quality stone of a lower carat weight can outshine a larger, poorly cut stone. Consider your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences when choosing the right carat size.

• If you want maximum sparkle, focus on cut quality over carat weight.
• If you prefer a larger look on a budget, consider shapes like oval, pear, or marquise, which appear bigger for their weight.

If you're looking for an everyday piece, a lower-carat option may be more practical for durability and comfort.

Final Thoughts

At Corielle, we believe jewelry should reflect your unique style and story. Whether you’re looking for a delicate, everyday piece or a bold statement ring, understanding carat size can help you choose a piece that’s just right for you.

Need help selecting the perfect carat size? Contact our jewelry experts for personalized guidance.

Selecting the right necklace length can enhance your look, complement your outfit, and ensure a comfortable fit. Whether you're shopping for an everyday piece or a statement necklace, understanding different lengths can help you make the best choice.

Standard Necklace Lengths and How They Fit

Necklaces come in a variety of lengths, each sitting differently on the neckline. Here’s a breakdown of the most common lengths and how they wear:

Collar necklaces (14 inches) sit tightly around the neck and are best suited for open-neck or off-shoulder outfits. A choker (16 inches) rests just at the base of the neck, making it a timeless and versatile option. The princess length (18 inches) falls just below the collarbone and is one of the most common and flattering choices.

For a slightly longer option, the matinee length (20-24 inches) reaches the chest area, making it perfect for layering and work attire. A more dramatic choice, the opera length (28-36 inches) falls below the bust and can be worn as a single strand or doubled for a layered effect. Finally, the rope length (36 inches and longer) extends past the waist and is often wrapped multiple times to create a stylish, multi-layered look.

1. Consider Your Neckline: Different necklaces pair well with different outfits. For example:

• V-neck tops look best with a Princess (18”) or Matinee (20-24”) necklace.
• Crew necks work well with a Choker (16”) or a longer Opera (28-36”) necklace.
• Off-shoulder styles are beautifully complemented by Collar (14”) or Choker (16”) necklaces.

2. Face Shape Matters:

• Round faces benefit from longer necklaces (20”+) to elongate the appearance.
• Heart-shaped faces are balanced by shorter chokers (16”) to soften the chin area.

3. Body Type & Proportion:

• A petite frame is flattered by shorter lengths (16-18”).
• Taller or fuller figures can pull off longer lengths (20”+).

4. Layering for Style:

• Mix shorter and longer lengths for a trendy, stacked effect.
• Use varied textures and pendant sizes to create depth.

Find Your Perfect Necklace at Corielle

At Corielle, we offer handcrafted fine jewelry in various lengths to suit every occasion and style. Need help choosing the right fit? Contact our team for expert guidance.

Choosing the right ring size is essential for comfort and style. Whether you're buying a ring for yourself or as a gift, understanding ring sizing can help ensure the perfect fit.

How Ring Sizing Works

Ring sizes are measured in millimeters based on the inner circumference of the ring. In the U.S. and Canada, sizes typically range from size 3 (14.1mm diameter) to size 13 (22.2mm diameter), with half and quarter sizes available for a more precise fit.

Ring Sizes

Size 3 – 14.1mm diameter
Size 4 – 14.9mm diameter
Size 5 – 15.7mm diameter
Size 6 – 16.5mm diameter
Size 7 – 17.3mm diameter
Size 8 – 18.1mm diameter
Size 9 – 19.0mm diameter
Size 10 – 19.8mm diameter
Size 11 – 20.6mm diameter
Size 12 – 21.4mm diameter
Size 13 – 22.2mm diameter

1. Use a Ring You Already Own

• Take a well-fitting ring and measure the inside diameter with a ruler.
• Compare the measurement to the size chart above.

2. Use a Piece of String or Paper

• Wrap a thin strip of paper or string around your finger.
• Mark where the ends meet and measure the length in millimeters.
• Use the chart to find your corresponding ring size.

3. Consider a Printable Ring Sizer

• Some jewelers provide a printable ring sizer with measured circles for easy matching.

Tips for Getting the Most Accurate Size

• Measure your finger at the end of the day when it's slightly larger.
• Avoid measuring when your hands are cold, as fingers shrink in lower temperatures.
• If you're between sizes, opt for the larger size for comfort, especially for wider rings.
• Rings with thicker bands tend to fit snugger, so consider sizing up slightly.

If your ring doesn’t fit perfectly, Corielle offers resizing options for select styles. Not sure about your size? Our team is happy to assist you with expert guidance.