In terms of pricing, what happens at "magic sizes"?

In the diamond industry, "magic sizes" refer to specific carat weights that tend to be particularly desirable or popular among consumers. These weights often include common benchmarks, such as 0.50 carats, 1.00 carats, and so on. When a diamond reaches one of these magic sizes, it usually garners a higher price due to increased demand and consumer preference for these rounded figures.

The dramatic increase in price at these sizes occurs because they are seen as milestones in terms of size; for example, a one-carat diamond is often perceived as significantly more valuable than a 0.90-carat diamond, even though the size difference is minimal. The perception of value tied to these specific weights leads to steep price jumps, making them notable in pricing dynamics within the market.

Understanding this pricing behavior is crucial when evaluating diamond options, as selecting a stone just below a magic size could result in significant cost savings without a substantial difference in visual or physical characteristics.