Tiny diamonds, also called melee diamonds, are worth $50 to $1,000 per carat depending on quality and cut.
Tiny diamonds, typically under 0.2 carats, are valued based on the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. These small stones are commonly used in jewelry settings as accent pieces rather than center stones. Their value per carat is significantly lower than larger diamonds due to market demand and cutting costs. A melee diamond might cost $300 per carat while a 1-carat diamond of similar quality could cost $4,000 per carat.
Price comparison by diamond size and quality
| Size (carats) | Quality Grade | Price Range (per carat) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.01-0.05 | SI1-G | $50-$200 |
| 0.06-0.10 | VS2-H | $200-$500 |
| 0.11-0.20 | VVS1-F | $500-$1,000 |
Factors affecting tiny diamond prices
- Cut quality: Better cut proportions increase brilliance and value
- Color grade: Near-colorless (G-H) commands higher prices than faint yellow (I-J)
- Clarity: VS2 and higher clarity grades are more valuable than SI1
- Shape: Round brilliants cost more than fancy shapes due to cutting waste
Where to buy tiny diamonds
Wholesale suppliers offer the best prices for melee diamonds, typically requiring minimum purchases of 0.5 carats or more. Online retailers like James Allen and Blue Nile sell individual melee diamonds with certification. Local jewelers may charge 20-30% markup but provide setting services. Industrial suppliers offer the lowest prices but stones may have lower quality grades suitable only for industrial applications.