What is the price of a 0.5 carat diamond?

The 0.5 carat diamond — also called "50 points" — is one of the most common weights in jewelry, especially for engagement solitaires. As with any stone, there is no single price: the value of a 0.5 carat diamond depends on the combination of its 4Cs (weight, color, clarity, cut) and its certificate. Here is how it is determined — and how to get the right price when reselling.

What exactly is a 0.5 carat diamond?

Half a carat corresponds to 0.10 grams, approximately 5.1 mm in diameter for a round brilliant cut. It is a pivotal weight: sufficiently present on the finger for a solitaire, while remaining significantly more accessible than a 1 carat diamond.

How is the price of a 0.5 carat diamond formed?

Four criteria determine the value: weight (carat), color (D to Z), clarity (IF to I), and cut quality.

Added to this is a phenomenon specific to the diamond market: the threshold effect. Prices per carat increase in steps at "round" weights: a 0.50 carat diamond crosses a price threshold compared to a 0.45 or 0.49 carat, all else being equal. This is why two visually very similar stones can have significantly different values.

Finally, the certificate (GIA, IGI, or HRD) plays a key role: it certifies the stone's characteristics and facilitates a fair price valuation.

What resale value?

The buyback value of a 0.5 carat diamond remains significantly lower than that of a 1 carat (see our guide to the price of a 1 carat diamond for published ranges), and varies greatly depending on color and clarity. The international diamond market (Rapaport list) serves as the basis for professional appraisal.

Only a gemological expert appraisal can determine the exact value of your stone: our state-certified gemologists perform it free of charge, before your eyes, at our office at 43 rue Beaubourg, Paris 3rd — in complete confidentiality, with immediate and secure payment if our offer suits you.