Wholesale lab-grown diamonds are priced per carat, but that single number hides a lot of detail. Understanding what drives it helps US jewelers compare quotes fairly and build profitable collections.

Price per carat vs price per stone

A quote of "$X per carat" is multiplied by the stone's weight. A 1.50-carat stone at $400/ct costs $600; a parcel of melee weighing 10 carats at $150/ct costs $1,500. Always check which one you are being quoted.

What moves the price per carat

1. Size band. Price per carat rises with size: a 2-carat stone costs more per carat than two 1-carat stones of the same grade. Prices often jump at popular weights such as 0.50, 1.00 and 2.00 carats.
2. Color. D–F commands a premium over G–H, which in turn costs more than I–J.
3. Clarity. VVS costs more than VS, which costs more than SI.
4. Cut, polish and symmetry. An Excellent cut round costs more than a Very Good, and it's worth it.
5. Shape. Rounds generally cost more per carat than fancy shapes because more rough is lost in cutting.
6. Certification. Stones with IGI or GIA reports carry the cost of grading.
7. Treatment and origin. Stones sold as-grown versus post-growth treated may be priced differently.

Melee pricing

Melee is sold in parcels by sieve size and a grade range such as DEF VVS/VS or EFG VS/SI. Matching quality and consistency across repeat orders matter as much as price. See our melee guide.

How to compare quotes

  • Compare the same specification: size band, color, clarity, cut, certification.
  • Ask whether prices include grading fees and shipping.
  • Check payment terms, memo or return options and minimum order sizes.
  • Remember that lab-grown prices move: a quote is valid for a set period.

Why direct sourcing helps

Buying directly from a manufacturer in India removes intermediary margins and gives you access to exact specifications. Our importing guide explains the process.

Our current prices

We publish wholesale per-carat prices for round melee by sieve size and fancy shapes in two quality bands. See the price list (PDF and Excel available) or request a quote for certified stones.