6 Carat Diamond Ring: How Much You Will Pay and Why
Did you know that the 6-carat diamond is one of the most popular of the larger diamond sizes? It’s the go-to for wearers who want a diamond that stands out from the crowd, so makes for a fantastic choice in engagement or wedding jewelry, as well as for a special gift.
But buying a diamond of this size and cost can be intimidating indeed. Luckily we’ve rounded up all the tips, tricks, and facts you need to make purchasing a 6-carat diamond simple- just keep reading!
6 Carat Diamond Ring Price
There’s a lot that goes into pricing diamonds of any size. And you might have noticed that prices for diamonds of the same carat value, which might seem similar to you, can vary wildly based on their certification. 6-carat diamonds can cost between $15,000 and $80,000 a carat.
Hold up- certification? Yes! High-quality diamonds are certified and assigned specific grades according to the 4Cs– carat, cut, color, and clarity. And it is where individual pieces fall on this scale that determines their final price.
The two most trusted and reliable certifications for diamonds are the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and AGS (American Gem Society).
You already know you want a beautiful 6-carat diamond, and if you’re looking at a specific shape, the price will stay somewhat consistent between pieces (we’ll elaborate on cut and shape a little more below).
But by deciding on the clarity and color parameters that matter most to you, you can also balance cost with your budget like a pro.
Let’s take a closer look. We’ll be throwing around some grading terminology here, but don’t let that phase you! We’ll break it all down later.
The diamond prices we will be discussing here are for the most coveted shape, round-brilliant. You might find equivalent diamonds in different shapes for a little less.
The absolute top-end certification for a 6-carat diamond will lie at a D-grade color and FL, or flawless, clarity. This is a near-perfect diamond in every way possible and will set you back about $400,000.
However, just because this diamond is graded the highest doesn’t mean it’s the very best choice, and the price tag may be a touch steep. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful gems to enjoy!
If we take a tiny step down the certification scale, to F-grade color and VVS1-clarity, we are still dealing with an exceptional gem indeed, and it will cost around $330,000 instead.
If you’re looking for the best balance of cost and quality, we typically suggest a ring in the G to I color grades and VS1 (or 2) clarity grade. Here you are still receiving a beautiful clear diamond, with only the slightest of inclusions, and it will be nearly indistinguishable from those premium grades we just looked at.
Down to the I-grade, you will still be able to flash your sparkle on a white gold or platinum band with the clearest color. Yet you can expect to pay between $130,000 to $180,000 for these beauties.
If you’re more inclined to the traditional romance of yellow gold, you can even consider a J-grade color at the same clarity and could find your dream ring for just under $100,000.
You will find 6-carat diamonds at the lower end of the scale for as little as $60,000, but once you pass the K-color grade and SI2 clarity grade, you’re venturing into the poor-quality territory.
A few other factors can dictate the final cost of a diamond ring, including where the diamond was sourced, the setting and other gems used to make the ring, and whether the jeweler has a coveted brand name.
Where to Buy a 6 Carat Diamond Ring
Shopping for a diamond ring can be challenging, and it gets even harder when you’re looking for a larger diamond, as they can be rare to keep in stock. Your best options will be to look online or go to a jewelry store. Both, of course, have pros and cons to consider.
Online
Online jewelers have become a solid and viable choice in recent years. Of course, while there are stellar and reputable online jewelers out there, you always have to do your research too.
Because you can’t view the diamond in person, you want to make sure they are well-known and trusted, and have robust internet security, solid returns policies, and excellent customer service. And it goes without saying- only purchase certified diamonds!
You will usually pay less for the same piece through an online seller because they don’t have to cover the overheads that are part of a traditional retailer’s cost. Typically, you’ll also have more choices because they can carry more stock. With a large diamond like a 6-carat, this can count.
Here are a few reputable vendors you can try.
Blue Nile is our absolute favorite, though! They’ve been on the market for many years and have won millions of hearts with their gorgeous designs, satisfying both classic and extravagant tastes.
Here are two examples of 6-carat diamond rings offered by Blue Nile we really wanted to share with you today:
Price: $108,432
This 6.24 Ct. French Pavé diamond engagement ring is the ultimate showstopper! It has a VG Cut, K Color, and scores SI1 on the Clarity scale. The price of this beauty is $108,432.
Price: $141,999
This is a stunning 14k rose gold ring, home to a 6-carat round cut diamond. The elegant foundation, accented with sparkling pavé diamonds set into an infinity-shaped band is perfect for those who want to drift away from conventional design. The price of this gorgeous ring is $141,999.
Local Jewelry Stores
Traditional jewelry stores still carry a lot of trust with buyers, as you can physically see and handle the piece before buying, as well as inspect its certification before you commit.
However, 6-carat diamonds, as a larger diamond, can also be rare to find in standard stock, and you may find your choices limited. You can expect to spend a lot more travel time looking at different locations, too.
How Big Is a 6 Carat Diamond Ring
A 6-carat diamond is a weighty purchase, and one the eye will be immediately drawn to. Many people think carats and size are linked, but they’ve actually got it wrong. The standard carat system for diamonds is a measure of weight, not size.
Each carat represents 200 mg and can be further divided into 100 ‘points’ to give an accurate measurement. So a 6-carat diamond will weigh 1.2 grams. It doesn’t sound that much, but on the finger, it will be!
When it comes to physical size, the shape of the diamond you choose will impact this a lot. Even the standard round-brilliant cut, however, will measure about 11.7 millimeters across.
To put that in context, the average woman’s finger is between 16.5 millimeters and 17 millimeters wide- so that’s a fair amount of her finger, even without the setting, other gems, or band being considered. It’s about 71% of the width of her finger!
While all 6-carat diamonds will, of course, weigh 1.2g and rate at those 6 carats, they won’t all look the same visually. Some shapes of diamonds sit with more of the rock under the ‘girdle’, or midpoint where the setting encapsulates the diamond.
This can be a plus when you’re dealing with larger diamonds, depending on the future wearer’s tastes. But remember to account for the ‘height’ of the ring from the finger, too, as this can be off-putting to some wearers. Others will love it.
6 Carat Diamond Ring: Shapes, Cuts, and Colors
The two crucial aspects of a six-carat diamond ring are the color and shape of the stone. The choice of these usually comes down to personal preference and budget, and there’s a lot to consider when you’re shopping for a ring of this size.
Diamond Shape and Cut
Many people believe the cut of diamond 4C’s refers to its shape, but this isn’t true. The shape of a diamond is its physical shape to the eye, while the cut is how the facets are created, polished, and made symmetrical.
That ‘cut’ is what is graded by professional jewelers- but the shape could matter more to your heart and enjoyment of the ring.
There is a virtually endless choice of shapes diamonds can be made, but choosing a common one will be cheaper than a custom shape. You’ll also find the traditional shapes more readily available, especially with an already rare size like a 6-carat diamond.
Among the most popular diamond shapes for rings are oval, pear-shaped, princess, asscher, cushion, or heart. The fancier diamonds often appear larger than the traditionally shaped ones, making them look more expensive without spending as much money. They can also be cheaper- for the same reason, oddly!
When you shape a diamond, you lose some of the raw stone to bring the shape to life. Round-brilliant, though the classic diamond shape, is also the most wasteful, while square shapes can lose a lot less. The more raw material lost, the more expensive the stone. It can vary from 20% to 60%
Why, then, is round so coveted? It is also the most dazzling, with up to 58 facets throwing sparkle and light everywhere. Remember how we mentioned that ‘cut’ and shape are not technically synonymous, even though we use them that way?
The cut on a round diamond- evaluated by a jeweler for symmetry and three key sparkle types (scintillation, fire, and brilliance) can be strictly graded. On the other shapes- called ‘fancy’ shapes in the industry- there’s a less precise cut grading, but they still look carefully at polish and symmetry.
Speaking of various shapes and cuts, below you’ll see two absolutely stunning examples of 6-carat round cut diamond rings offered on Blue Nile.
Price: $267,128
You can never go wrong with a classic engagement ring with a sparkling center stone. Six platinum prongs secure and support the center stone, which is a marvelous 6.01-carat diamond in a round shape of ideal cut.
The price for this beauty is $267,128. You can pick the material of the band from Platinum to 18k gold.
Price: $271,225
This breathtaking halo diamond ring is an absolute statement of sparkle and brilliance. It showcases a cushion halo of pavé-set diamonds to frame a 6.31-carat diamond of your choice set in enduring platinum. It’s an ideal cut, D color, and VS3 clarity and it costs $271,225.
| Round | $141,049 |
| Princess | $65,554 |
| Emerald | $81,275 |
| Asscher | $133,834 |
| Cushion | $76,131 |
| Marquise | $97,314 |
| Radiant | $81,298 |
| Oval | $107,882 |
| Pear | $211,185 |
| Heart | $111,038 |
Diamond Colors
Strangely, when we talk about color ratings in traditional white diamonds, we’re actually talking about the lack of color! The ideal diamond is as pure and clear as a water drop and would earn a D color rating for it.
As we go lower on the color scales (it runs to Z), we start seeing faint yellow or brown murkiness in the color, earning a lower rating. Here’s the full scale:
- Colorless = D, E, F
- Near Colorless = G, H, I, J
- Faint = K, L, M
- Very Light = N, O, P, Q, R
- Light = S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z
Any diamond in the colorless to faint categories will likely look perfect to the eye. Even professionals have to grade these stones carefully, in strictly controlled conditions, and the variances are tough to see. They also grade them loose- as band metal can impact how we perceive the color.
The best choice for a six-carat diamond is between grades G and I, as this gives the clearest look but still represents good value. If you choose a lower grade, the color will have a more perceptible yellow or light brown tinge that might be apparent to the naked eye.
This can actually be a plus for the buyer, however! Not everyone likes the pure icy sparkle of the colorless diamonds and may prefer a slight warmth lent by a gold band or a slightly lower color grade.
However, the cost will be drastically different for one with better color, so it’s an excellent opportunity to save some money if you’re not fussy.
What About Colored Diamonds?
So if the ‘color’ of the 4Cs is all about lack of color, what’s the deal with chocolate, blue, pink, and black diamonds? These colors occur naturally as the diamond forms, usually due to chemical and metal elements in the mix. Red diamonds, which need some very unique circumstances to form, are the rarest.
These are not graded on the classic diamond color scale and are instead evaluated for vivacity and consistency of color on a fancy-vivid to fancy-faint color. They will be called ‘fancy’ diamonds, too!
Clarity Rating for 6 Carat Diamond Rings
The clarity rating of a diamond is one of the most important gradings it has, and it will determine a lot about the cost and look of the stone (as you’ve already seen). The clarity of a diamond refers to how clear/transparent it is.
When grading a diamond for clarity, the appraiser will look at how many blemishes or inclusions they can see when viewing it through a magnifier. Blemishes refer to small issues on the outside of the diamond, while inclusions refer to those within the diamond.
These happen naturally as the diamond forms deep in the earth, but can affect how bright and sparkly it appears. A diamond will be virtually transparent at the highest level, with no signs of anything there when you look through it at 10x magnifications
Once the diamonds get to a certain level of clarity, it will be impossible to detect a difference with the naked eye. Instead, an expert will need to assess the diamond and provide a clear grading.
Anything above the VVS2 grade is near-impossible to evaluate with the eye, although a higher-carat diamond, like a 6-carat diamond, can make them a little more obvious.
This is the current rating the GIA uses for diamonds:
- Flawless (FL)—no inclusions or blemishes
- Internally Flawless (IF)—zero visible inclusions
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)—some inclusions that are difficult for an experienced jeweler to observe with high-powered magnification
- Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)—inclusions may be seen under magnification by a skilled appraiser
- Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)—somewhat noticeable inclusions
- Included (I1, I2, and I3)—noticeable inclusions
Here’s how things look like for a 6-carat diamond. For instance, a 6-carat diamond with an Internally Flawless Clarity and color D, which is the highest “colorless” grade, would cost around $580,000. Here’s how the prices look when we change the Color and Clarity characteristics.
| IF | VVS1 | VVS2 | VS1 | VS2 | SI1 | SI2 | |
| D | $585,301 | N/A | N/A | $470,020 | $269,235 | $242,074 | N/A |
| E | N/A | N/A | $379,913 | N/A | N/A | $219,442 | N/A |
| F | N/A | $462,822 | N/A | $288,162 | $266,381 | $170,269 | N/A |
| G | $227,255 | N/A | N/A | $266,388 | N/A | N/A | $130,479 |
| H | N/A | $276,101 | $259,875 | $171,447 | $201,048 | N/A | N/A |
| I | $214,981 | N/A | $145,175 | $129,364 | $142,062 | $108,144 | $100,944 |
| J | N/A | N/A | $181,000 | N/A | N/A | $118,444 | $111,119 |
| K | $112,809 | N/A | N/A | $109,312 | $93,988 | $94,792 | $82,971 |
Note: All pricing examples are current as of 11/17/2022 and apply to in-stock diamonds.
How to Choose the Best 6 Carat Diamond Ring
As one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, you want to make sure you’re choosing the best possible 6-carat diamond ring. Here are some tips to take into consideration when making your precious purchase.
To get the best value for your purchase, we suggest going for specific GIA or AGS-certified grades. For a 6 Carat diamond ring, it’s better to stick to Ideal or Excellent grades for cut on the GIA scale. For color, go for G to I, and VS1 or VS2 for Clarity.
Occasion
6-carat diamonds are most often used as the wow-factor solitaire on an engagement ring. However, depending on how often you wear jewelry and your budget, you’ll find plenty in other forms too, even some wedding jewelry.
They may be a little bulky to wear day-to-day, however. So considering the occasion, taste of the wearer, and factors like when they intend to wear it is critical.
Setting
We’ve already looked at the shape of diamonds. You should also consider how the diamond will be set and if there will be any additional diamonds or stones surrounding it, and match it to your or your loved one’s tastes. It’s the most ‘visible’ factor of the ring, so you want them to love it dearly.
Certification
A reputable vendor will offer certification on every diamond they sell, especially for a purchase like a 6-carat diamond ring. The two most respected grading systems are the GIA and AGS, so make sure the jeweler offers either of these.
This ensures that you’re paying for the quality of diamond that you want. The diamond certificate is an official document that will detail things like polish grade, cut, carat, and clarity, so there’s no confusion over the quality of the diamond you’re buying.
Lab-Grown
Did you know that lab-grown diamonds exist? And they’re 100% pure diamonds, too, just made in a lab rather than through natural processes. Because of these controlled conditions, and the lack of scarcity, they can be significantly cheaper than mined diamonds.
On a large carat weight like 6 carats, it could be about 70% cheaper, and you may get a gem with better gradings, too. Many also see them as an ethical alternative to traditionally mined diamonds, so don’t forget to have this on your radar.
If you’re still not sure if a lab-grown diamond ring is for you, take a look at this gorgeous 6-Carat lab-grown ring.
Price: $7,290
An eternity ring is a reminder that love is eternal and the vows you made with your partner on your wedding day are still valid to this day. What better way to surprise your significant other on your anniversary than to get them a gorgeous eternity ring?
This low dome eternity ring by Blue Nile is a marvelous 6 ct. Tw. of round-cut lab-grown diamonds, elegantly encircling the band. It’s crafted for a comfortable feel and it’s made of 14k white gold. The starting price for this beauty is $7,290.
Famous 6 Carat Diamond Engagement Rings
The exclusivity of a 6-carat diamond engagement ring appeals to celebrities, and plenty of notable rings in entertainment history have been 6-carat beauties. Looking for some inspiration? Why not check these out?
- Jennifer Lopez’s original engagement ring from Ben Affleck was a 6.1-carat pink diamond, but we all know what happened to the first round of Bennifer! When he proposed again in 2022 and had to increase the stakes, he upgraded to an 8.5-carat green diamond which was even more impressive.
- When banking heir James Rothschild proposed to Nicky Hilton in 2014, their square-cut diamond ring took center stage in many gossip mags. Although no official stats were released about the ring, it’s clear to experts that it’s at least six carats and of spectacular quality.
- Lady Gaga and Taylor Kinney were engaged to be married in 2015. While they called it off the following year, her 6-carat heart-shaped diamond will go down in history as one of the biggest and best. Did you know that heart-shaped diamonds are often cheaper than others?
- Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel have one of Hollywood’s longest-lasting marriages. While it’s likely not due to her impressive engagement ring, it probably helped seal the deal back in the day. Aquamarine stones on either side flank the 6-carat diamond center, and Justin is credited with designing the ring himself. Not bad, right?
- Anne Hathaway has one of the entertainment industry’s smallest rings, but small can carry understated elegance and classic beauty, and hers definitely does. Her gorgeous engagement ring features a 6-carat emerald-cut diamond from world-famous jeweler Kwiat, and cost an estimated $150,000 to make.
- Meghan Markle’s engagement ring was recently updated from the original that Prince Harry gave her, with the new one totaling around 6 carats. With one center stone of around four carats and two diamonds on either side of .75 carats each, adding them all up equates to 6 beautiful carats of diamonds. Did you know that this is a type of rating diamonds have? If you ever see ‘6-carat TCW’, it means total carat weight, or the sum of the carats in the ring, rather than one stone alone holding 6 carats.
An Exceptional Beauty
There’s nothing more exciting than shopping for a diamond ring, especially when it’s as big and exceptional as a 6-carat one! However, you must do your homework to ensure you’re getting the best value for money and choosing a diamond that matches your preferences as well as your pocketbook.
Now you’re powered up with all the knowledge you need to assess a diamond’s cut, color, and clarity. The higher their rating, the more you can expect to pay- but don’t choose on price tag alone!
For such a significant investment, you want to be able to enjoy its beauty once it’s on your finger, so let your own tastes and loves shine through too. With the knowledge you now have, you’ll be able to buy a piece you’ll treasure, and get a quality deal too.
Curious about how other carats stack up next to your bling? Check out these guides for other popular diamond rings:
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