The perfect diamond carat will depend on who you're buying it for. For this reason, here are some things to consider when shopping for the perfect carat size: The wearer's finger size: if you're shopping for a diamond ring, you need to consider the ring size of the person you're buying for. If the wearer has larger fingers, a small carat diamond can look insignificant. Similarly, those with thinner fingers may find a huge diamond too heavy and cumbersome. Think about what will suit the wearer best and be comfortable. You may also want to consider the shape of the diamond. While a round diamond may suit one person's fingers, other shapes, such as marquise or pear, may be more interesting and look better. Size vs budget: the larger the diamond, the more expensive it will be. By balancing quality and carat, you can find a diamond that fits your budget better than simply going for the biggest one you can afford. It will also likely be more visually attractive than a large but flawed gem. Practicality: bigger isn't always better when it comes to jewelry. If you are purchasing an item such as an engagement ring, think about whether it will be worn every day. While the diamond itself will be hard enough to withstand everyday wear, it's important to remember that the size shouldn't be too large and impractical. On the other hand, if you're looking for a showstopper piece that will be worn for special occasions, you may want to choose a larger diamond.