The diamond engagement ring is a symbolic gesture usually received by the bride to be from her future spouse. Diamond engagement rings come in a variety of styles and sizes these days and no matter what one may desire with regard to this type of ring they are sure to find one which perfectly suits their tastes. Some individuals who are shopping for an engagement ring may wonder what carat weight is the appropriate one to purchase and what most people buy when it comes to diamond size. The following will highlight some trends with regard to carat size and focus on what the average carat weight of a diamond engagement ring is in 2008.

Past Carat Weight Trends

In the early 20th century, diamond carat weights were quite generous. In 1939, the average carat weight of engagement ring diamonds was 1 carat. A couple of decades later in 1976, the average carat weight of diamond engagement rings actually decreased to a ¼ carat. The fluctuation in the average size amounts can be seen for a few different reasons such as the cost of the diamonds and the overall average income of the population at that time.

Current Carat Weight Average and Differences Seen in Various Areas

Today, the national average for the diamonds chosen for engagement rings with regard to carat weight is 0.38 carats. In general, the carat weight averages of engagement ring diamonds are increasing. However, in order to truly understand the average relating to diamond carat weight for engagement rings it is important to look at the specific regions in which the engagement rings are being purchased as trends can be seen throughout these areas as well.

Larger cities such as Boston, Philadelphia and New York City have an average of 1.6 carats as it relates to diamond engagement rings. When viewing diamond carat weight averages in some of the Southern states and "Bible Belt" regions, the carat averages are anywhere between 0.25 and 0.40 carats. The state of Alabama has an average of 0.50 carats when it comes to diamond carat weights for those who are about to be married. When considering the entire state of California, the diamond carat weight average has been seen as over 1.0 carats. Focusing in on a more specific region within California such as the La Jolla/Del Mar area, the carat size is quite generous and is stated to be around 2.75 carats. When looking at carat weights with respect to engagement rings outside of the United States, such as in Europe, the average there is 0.30 carats and the stone within the engagement ring is not always a diamond gemstone.

In general, the average size of one's diamond engagement ring is increasing. With regard to the cost of such a beautiful ring, the average price spent on a diamond engagement ring these days is somewhere between $2500 and $3000. Although many have heard the notion that a diamond engagement ring should be at least 1 carat in weight, this is a relatively new sentiment. The fact of the matter is that a diamond engagement ring should suit the individual it is being given to and should be affordable to the person buying it. The true purpose surrounding it is the thought and love with which it is given.