How Much is a 3 Carat Diamond?
Updated for 2025. Analysis of current market prices for Natural vs Lab Grown diamonds at the 3ct weight class.
The Short Answer
Natural Market: Expect to pay between $35,000 and $55,000 for a good quality 3 carat natural diamond.
Lab Grown Market: Expect to pay between $1,800 and $3,500 for a similar quality lab-grown stone.
*Prices are based on GIA/IGI certified stones with G-H Color and VS Clarity. ideal Cut.
Detailed Price Breakdown
When shopping for a 3 carat diamond, the price is heavily influenced by the "4Cs": Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat. However, the origin (Natural vs. Lab) is the biggest price multiplier.
A 3 carat diamond is considered huge by most standards. Natural stones are significant investments, whereas lab-grown options offer this massive look very affordably.
Natural vs Lab Grown: The Price Visualized
Natural 3ct
Lab Grown 3ct
How Big is a 3 Carat Diamond?
Carat is a measure of weight, not visual size. However, for a standard round brilliant cut diamond, we can estimate the diameter.
A 3 carat diamond is approximately 9.3 millimeters across. This is a substantial size that will stand out noticeably on the hand.
Where to Buy a 3 Carat Diamond
We recommend buying online to save 30-40% compared to traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Here are our top rated retailers for 3ct stones.