Two Carat Diamond Ring Collection and Guide

One carat vs two carat diamond rings

How to choose a two carat diamond

It’s a total myth that bigger is better when it comes to diamonds. The right diamond isn’t based on just one single factor, but a combination of all 4 Cs of diamond quality-cut, carat, clarity and colour. When considering a diamond, focus on the quality that’s most important to you, then work to balance the remaining three.

If you’ve decided that you’re diamond has to be two carats, here’s how you can balance the remaining quality characteristics:

Cut:
A cut grade is exclusively given to round diamonds, so if you’re considering a round shape, you should absolutely prioritise a high cut grade given the carat weight of your diamond. A well-cut diamond maximises the brilliance of the diamond, resulting in that sought-after sparkle and life that refracts light through its facets. We’d always advise looking for an excellent cut grade especially when considering a round diamond of one carat or higher.

Colour:
A diamond’s colour grade determines the level of colour present in a diamond. In fact, colour grade determines the absence of colour in a diamond.

But it’s not what you’re thinking–you won’t literally see a coloured diamond. Grades D-J will appear white to the naked eye. The difference in colour grades are often imperceptible and our in-house team of Diamond Specialists twice-inspect every diamond to ensure each stone fits within our stringent standards.

With a diamond of a higher carat weight, considering higher colour grades will certainly impact the price point. It’s for this reason that we’d recommend considering anything in the ‘near-colourless’ range of G-H. This will allow you to assign more of your budget to quality characteristics like carat and cut which will have more of a prominent impact on your stone.

Of course, if colour quality is of great importance to you, opt for higher colour grades while being aware that this will command a price premium.

Cushion cut diamond unset engagement rings

Clarity:
As diamonds form deep in the earth, or in a laboratory, they develop birthmarks on their surface and internally–slight irregularities and features that are visible to a skilled grader under 10x magnification. These are collectively referred to as ‘clarity characteristics’ or ‘inclusions’

While an internally flawless diamond is incredibly rare, this doesn’t mean that diamonds with clarity grades beneath this will exhibit visible inclusions to the naked eye. A clarity grade of VS1 or VS2 is often a good choice as it strikes a sensible balance between clarity and price.

As always, each of the diamonds that we recommend are twice-inspected by our expert procurement team who will ensure any ‘clarity characteristics’ are not visible to the naked eye.

Carat weight:
The highly sought-after two carat diamond possesses the power to enchant many and this means they carry a price premium. If you’re not tied to the exact carat weight, we’d always recommend considering carat weights just shy of a two carat, like a 1.9ct. These will look almost identical in size on the hand, but may well result in cost savings.

Certification:
Always purchase a diamond with a reputable grading report from a well-known laboratory such as GIA, IGI or GCal. This ensures that the diamond’s characteristics are accurately represented so you know you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for.

Lab-grown diamonds:
If you’ve considered all of the above and your preference is out of your price point, enter the lab grown diamond. Technically and chemically identical, lab grown diamonds differ in their origins and how they’re produced. Because diamond mining is nowhere near as cost efficient as lab grown diamond production, lab grown diamonds see a lower and more affordable price point–often 50-80% less than natural diamonds.

There are additional considerations to take into account like whether they’ll retain their value. Learn more about the differences between lab grown diamonds and natural, mined diamonds here.

Personal preference:
Diamonds are so innately special–it’s often said that you don’t choose the stone, the stone chooses you and sometimes upon first glance, there’s a feeling that it’s meant to be. Ultimately, you can strike the balance between price and quality so long as it aligns with your personal preferences.

Two carat in millimetre measurements for different diamond shapes

Diamond shapes vary in their proportions, which can influence how they appear in terms of size on the finger. Here’s a comparison of the approximate millimetre measurements for an ‘ideal’ ratio of popular diamond shapes:

These measurements are approximate and can vary based on the diamond’s depth and the specific cut proportions. When choosing a diamond shape, it’s important to consider how the dimensions and proportions affect the stone’s appearance, as well as your personal preferences in terms of style.

Stone shape	1 carat	2 carat	3 carat
Round	6.4 x 6.4mm	8.1 x 8.1mm	9.4 x 9.4mm
Princess	5.5 x 5.5mm	7.3 x 7.3mm	8.6 x 8.6mm
Emerald	7 x 5mm	8.5 x 6.5mm	10 x 7mm
Asscher	5.5 x 5.5mm	7 x 7mm	8 x 8mm
Oval	8 x 5.5mm	10 x 7mm	11 x 8mm
Marquise	10 x 5mm	12 x 6mm	14 x 7mm
Pear	8 x 5.5mm	10 x 7mm	12 x 8mm
Heart	6.5 x 6.5mm	8.5 x 8.5mm	10 x 10mm
Cushion	6.5 x 6.5mm	8 x 8mm	9.5 x 9.5mm

Two carat natural diamond price

Diamond shape affects pricing in a couple of ways. Firstly, certain shapes require more rough stone wastage during the cutting process, resulting in a lower price. Secondly, the demand for the classic round diamond tends to be higher, contributing to elevated prices.

When considering a two carat diamond ring, it’s important to note that a round diamond, being the most popular choice, will generally carry a price premium compared to other fancy shaped cuts.

Among the various diamond cuts, other shapes typically come with a lower price compared to a round diamond of roughly the same weight and quality. For instance, a two carat pear or oval diamond ring may cost approximately 10-15% less than a round diamond, while a two carat cushion cut, princess cut, or emerald cut diamond ring could potentially be up to 20-25% less expensive.*

Here’s a general overview of the price ranges for a two carat diamond with specifications of G colour, VS1 clarity, and excellent cut grade, across various popular diamond shapes:

2 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond: £25,000 – £35,000

2 Carat Princess Cut Diamond: £15,000 – £19,000

2 Carat Emerald Cut Diamond: £18,000 – £22,000

2 Carat Asscher Cut Diamond: £18,000 – £22,000

2 Carat Radiant Cut Diamond: £16,500 – £19,500

2 Carat Oval Cut Diamond: £20,500 – £27,500

2 Carat Marquise Cut Diamond: £22,500 – £29,000

2 Carat Pear Shape Diamond: £25,000 – £31,000

2 Carat Heart Shape Diamond: £20,000 – £23,000

*these are approximate price ranges accurate at time of publication – September 2023

Browse 2ct natural diamonds

Lab grown diamond igi certification copy

Two carat lab grown diamond price

Lab grown diamonds are a wonderful alternative to natural diamonds as they offer a lower price point. Of course, there are pros and cons to consider for both lab grown and natural diamonds and we feel it’s important to educate yourself on both so that you can make a choice that aligns with your personal preferences and values. Read more about both forms of diamonds here.

Two carat oval lab grown diamond rings

Demure

Two carat oval diamond solitaire ring – Total = £4,925; Oval 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Tamora

Two carat oval diamond floral accent diamond ring – Total = £5,645; Oval 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Confetti

Two carat oval diamond petal set pavé ring – Total = £5,825; Oval 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Lyra

Two carat oval diamond petal set pavé ring – Total = £5,945; Oval 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Affinity

Two carat oval diamond trilogy ring – Total = £5,735; Oval 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Two carat marquise lab grown diamond rings

Tamora

Two carat marquise diamond trilogy cluster ring – Total = £5,525; Marquise 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Nutmeg

Two carat marquise diamond east-west ring – Total = £6,035; Marquise 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Joy

Two carat marquise diamond solitaire ring – Total = £5,225; Marquise 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Faith

Two carat marquise diamond dark blue sapphire trilogy ring – Total = £5,345; Marquise 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Dulcet

Two carat marquise diamond pavé ring – Total = £5,345; Marquise 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Two carat emerald lab grown diamond rings

Demure

Two carat mixed metal emerald diamond solitaire ring – Total = £5,135; Emerald 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Trinity

Two carat emerald diamond trilogy ring – Total = £6,035; Emerald 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Thyme

Two carat emerald diamond hidden halo ring – Total = £5,765; Emerald 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Allure

Two carat emerald diamond halo ring – Total = £6,095; Emerald 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Reverie

Two carat emerald diamond trilogy trapezoid ring – Total = £5,915; Emerald 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Two carat princess cut lab grown diamond rings

Lissome

Two carat princess diamond pavé ring – Total = £5,225; Princess 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Divinity

Two carat princess diamond pavé ring – Total = £5,225; Princess 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Demure

Two carat princess diamond solitaire ring – Total = £4,925; Princess 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Utopia

Two carat princess diamond trilogy ring – Total = £6,425; Princess 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Two carat round lab grown diamond rings

Eve

Two carat round diamond solitaire ring – Total = £4,835; Round 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £3,845

Cassia

Two carat round diamond twisted pavé ring – Total = £5,255; Round 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £3,845

Marula

Two carat round diamond cluster ring – Total = £5,525; Round 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £3,845

Faith

Two carat round diamond teal sapphire trilogy ring – Total = £5,105; Round 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £3,845

Dulcet

Two carat round diamond pavé ring – Total = £4,985; Round 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £3,845

Two carat cushion cut diamond rings

Dulcet

Two carat cushion diamond pavé ring – Total = £5,345; Cushion 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Affinity

Two carat cushion diamond trilogy ring – Total = £5,885; Cushion 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Cassia

Two carat cushion diamond twisted pavé ring – Total = £5,615; Cushion 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Purity

Two carat cushion diamond bezel ring – Total = £5,195; Cushion 2ct lab grown diamond, F, VS1: £4,205

Lower price alternatives to a two carat diamond

We get it. A two carat diamond doesn’t come easily–but there are alternatives if your heart is set on the aesthetic of a two carat.

Consider a halo setting. The halo style features a centre stone that is encircled by a ‘halo’ of smaller diamonds or gemstones, creating the optical illusion of a significantly larger stone. This technique has soared in popularity for engagement rings in recent years, offering a more cost-efficient way to achieve a high-impact look.
Consider total carat weight. Who says the full two carats needs to achieved by the centre stone alone? Opting for a lower carat weight centre stone and including diamond melee stones in a pavé band could help the total carat weight cross the two carat line. Utilising smaller diamonds to accentuate the appearance of the centre doesn’t require the same investment, but will certainly result in a mesmerising final ring.

Two carat diamond FAQs

What is the average price of a two carat diamond ring?

The average price of a two carat diamond ring can vary massively depending on factors such as your chosen metal, design style and diamond quality grades. Generally, prices can range from £15,000 to £50,000 and beyond.

How much is a two carat diamond ring with a simple solitaire setting?

A two carat diamond ring with a simple solitaire setting can start around £15,000 and go up depending on your diamond quality and shape selection.

What is the best cut for a two carat diamond ring?

It’s up to you! The round brilliant cut is a popular choice for two carat diamond rings due to its iconicism and excellent light performance and sparkle. However, the “best” cut depends on personal preferences, as other shapes like oval, princess, and emerald are also sought after.

How much does a two carat diamond halo ring cost?

A two carat diamond halo engagement ring, featuring a centre diamond surrounded by smaller accent diamonds, can start around £16,000 and go up based on the centre diamond shape selection, its quality and the metal used.

Are two carat diamond rings considered "big" or "large"?

A two carat diamond ring is generally considered to have a significant presence on the finger. However, the perception of size can vary depending on the size of the wearer’s finger as well as the diamond’s shape, cut, and ring setting.

What is the price difference between a one carat and a two carat diamond ring?

The price difference between a one carat and a two carat diamond ring can vary based on various factors. When increasing carat weight, price increases aren’t steady. In fact, they typically increase exponentially. For example, a two carat diamond would cost more than two 1ct diamonds of the same quality.

In general, doubling the carat weight of your diamond can cost three to four times more, assuming the same quality characteristics.

Can I customise the setting for my two carat diamond ring?

Absolutely. That’s what we do best at Taylor & Hart. Capturing your extraordinary love story in a design that’s unique to you is what makes jewellery so special. You can choose from various setting styles, metal options and design details to hold your precious two carat diamond–be it the smallest customisation to an entirely bespoke design from scratch.

What’s the difference between a natural and lab-grown two carat diamond ring in terms of price?

Lab grown diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds of the same quality and carat weight. They give customers access to larger diamonds, for less.

However, the greatest consideration to take into account is that lab grown diamond will likely not keep their intrinsic monetary value into the future. So while a lab grown diamond offers value for money in the immediate term, they may not be worth what you paid for them in the coming years, while natural diamonds retain or increase in value over time. Read more about the value implications of lab grown diamonds here.

How do I determine the quality of a two carat diamond ring?

To determine the quality of a two carat diamond ring, consider the 4Cs of the diamond itself–this includes their cut, colour, clarity quality grades as well as their carat weight. Additionally, ensure that the diamond comes with a reputable grading report from a recognised gemological laboratory for authenticity and accurate grading.