Carat

A carat is a unit of weight for diamonds and other gemstones, and is equivalent to 200 milligrams.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: The term "carat" refers to a measure of weight used specifically for gemstones and pearls. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams or 0.2 grams. This metric is crucial in the jewelry industry for quantifying the size and weight of diamonds and other precious stones, with the value of a gemstone often increasing substantially with its carat weight. The precision of weight measurement to the hundredth decimal place allows jewelers and consumers to understand the exact weight, and therefore the potential value, of a gemstone. The carat system enables consistent and standardized valuation across the global gem market, making it a fundamental aspect of jewelry appraisal and trading.