Lab grown diamond price in 2026
Lab grown diamond costs $600 to $1,500 per 1 carat loose stone in 2026, and most people pay about $759.
What moves the price
- Carat size is the biggest factor, since prices rise fast above 2 carats.
- Color and clarity grades change the price.
- The cut shape matters, and ovals cost a bit more than rounds.
- The retailer and the lab report affect the price.
- A set ring costs more than a loose stone.
- Where you live. Prices in big cities usually run higher than in small towns.
What is included
The price of a loose stone covers the diamond and often a grading report. The setting, metal and ring size are extra. A set ring costs more than the loose stone alone.
Lab grown diamond price by size (loose stone)
| Size | Price range |
|---|---|
| 0.5 carat | $300 to $800 |
| 1 carat | $759 to $1,500 |
| 1.5 carat | $2,000 to $3,500 |
| 2 carat | $1,650 to $7,500 |
| 3 carat | $2,361 to $11,000 |
Average prices in US dollars. Source: Washington Diamond.
Ways to pay less
- Choosing a slightly lower color or clarity grade can lower the price with little look difference.
- Comparing the same grade at several retailers can show big price gaps.
- A round cut often costs less than fancy shapes.
What price guides say
We checked 3 price guides and read every number on their pages. They do not all measure the same thing, so the ranges on this page come from putting them side by side.
- Washington Diamond: Lab Diamond Price Tracker
- Liori Diamonds: Lab Grown Diamond Cost per Carat: 2026 Price Ladder
- Goodstone: Average engagement ring cost by carat, metal, lab vs natural
Common questions
How much does this cost in 2026?
Lab grown diamond costs $600 to $1,500 per 1 carat loose stone in 2026, and most people pay about $759. Most people pay about $759 per 1 carat loose stone. The low end is $600 and the high end is $1,500.
What changes the price the most?
The biggest factors are: Carat size is the biggest factor, since prices rise fast above 2 carats; Color and clarity grades change the price; The cut shape matters, and ovals cost a bit more than rounds.
How can I pay less?
Choosing a slightly lower color or clarity grade can lower the price with little look difference. Comparing the same grade at several retailers can show big price gaps. A round cut often costs less than fancy shapes.
Where do these numbers come from?
From 3 named price guides: Washington Diamond, Liori Diamonds, Goodstone. Each one is linked on this page with the date we read it.
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