What is CTTW? Difference Betweeen CTTW and CT
Posted on March 22, 2022 at 12:27 pm by
Chris Galey
/ 0 Comments
Last updated on July 23, 2026 at 5:35 pm
Summary
We shall explain what CTTW is, its significance in the diamond market, and so on through this article. We believe that explaining the same is truly important given CTTW stands for “carat total weight,” and it is an integral part of diamond weighing and price determination.

What is CTTW?
CTTW is carat total weight, and CTTW is the abbreviation used for it. It is the unit used to measure diamonds in a particular piece of jewelry you purchased.
There are multiple ways the CTTW acronym is inscribed in a piece of jewelry so that it can be either written as CT TW or CTTW here, CT means carat, which is the unit used to measure the diamond’s weight.

On the other hand, “TW’ is the total weight that is used to measure the weight of all the diamonds used in the piece of jewelry and not just the solitaire or the centerpiece.
Please note that both carat weight and total weight are different terms; yes, it seems to be the same thing through the description, but it isn’t. Carat weight is usually used for one piece of diamond, whereas total weight is for the entire jewelry. This confusion can be avoided by visiting a trusted jeweler.
Let’s take an example
For instance, if the jeweler points out these are 1.44cttw diamonds for your wedding ring, which means the diamonds in the ring are for 1.44 carats combined. Here is a video, it may you help understand properly.
[su_youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMsvmsF8opo” autoplay=”yes” mute=”yes” title=”1.44 Ct diamond Ring”]
Carat is the universally accepted unit for measuring diamonds and a pretty sensitive unit, as minor increases can cause significant price differences.
CTTW vs CT (Carat): The Difference?
The difference between total weight and carat weight is consequential, and we shall let you know how.
Let’s follow the carat weight of a diamond; when pointed out, it points out the amount that the diamond weighs and doesn’t measure its size. When measured with the carat unit, a diamond weighs around 200 mg, a diameter from 5.60mm to 6.50mm the range in which the diamond’s diameter falls depends upon the cut of the diamond.
Shape
Carat
Cut
Color
Clarity
Price
emerald
3.08
Ideal
D
VVS1
$2422
$2307
View
cushion
3.02
Ideal
D
VVS2
$714
$680
View
heart
2.54
Ideal
F
VVS2
$561
$534
View
pear
2.58
Ideal
G
SI1
$6691
$6372
View
cushion
2.97
Ideal
D
VVS1
$954
$909
View
When you view loose diamonds online or go to a jeweler in general, the carat weight is depicted through “CT” which is the acronym used for the same. Online, you’ll see the “CT” being listed along with the color and cut, and clarity of the same being listed.
Now, let’s explain what the “TW” diamond means. It is the total weight of diamonds in the piece of jewelry you’re buying. It isn’t like the carat, which measures the weight of only the jewelry’s center stone, but it is the weight of the entire stone.
The acronym “CTTW” or “CTW” carat total weight is primarily used across the world and almost interchangeably, and both of them have the same meaning.

Now, there can be questions what if there is only one diamond in the ring or earring we purchase? What would be the difference between “CT” and “CTTW” then? The answer is that then both of them are the same. For example, if you’re buying a center stone cut diamond ring, then the “CT” and “CTTW” will be the same.
Other rings have a center stone and then smaller stones around them. Here the total carat weight rounds up to the weight of smaller stones added with the weight of the center stone.
Now, either the center stone or the stones surrounding them and accordingly, the price is decided.
Where to Buy CTTW Diamonds From?
Selecting the perfect lab-grown diamond has never been more accessible, and we at Loose Grown Diamonds take pride in providing the best prices without compromising on quality. For a limited time, enjoy an exclusive discount by using our promo code during checkout. At Loose Grown Diamond, we prioritize customer satisfaction, offering a unique blend of affordability, ethical sourcing, and top-notch craftsmanship in every lab-grown diamond.
Elevate your jewelry collection with a CTTW diamond that not only radiates brilliance but also aligns with your values. Choose Loose Grown Diamonds for an unparalleled combination of beauty, transparency, and unbeatable prices.
FAQs
What Does Cttw Mean?
CTTW stands for “Carat Total Weight,” and it specifically refers to the combined weight of all the diamonds in a piece of jewelry.
Is Cttw only For Diamonds?
Yes, CTTW is exclusively for diamonds. If you’re considering a ring with both sapphires and diamonds, CTTW only takes into account the weight of the diamonds, not the sapphires.
Does Cttw Indicate the Price of The Jewelry?
No, CTTW doesn’t provide much information about the price. Two rings with the same CTTW can have significantly different prices. This is because the distribution of the total carat weight matters – whether it comes from the center stone or the smaller accent stones. It’s crucial to understand that the pricing of diamonds isn’t linear; larger stones are much rarer and, therefore, cost more exponentially.
Does a Diamond’s Shape Impact Cttw?
The distribution of CTTW in a piece can be affected by the shape of the diamonds, which can change its overall design.
Can Cttw Be Customized in Jewelry?
Yes, lgd provides customization options in order to meet customer preferences and attain the intended CTTW. Our team includes experienced gemologists who ensure that every diamond meets the highest standards.
Can Cttw Be Applied to Earrings?
Yes, CTTW is also applicable to earrings. If you’re purchasing a pair of earrings, you need to divide the CTTW by two. This calculation helps you determine the size of the stones on each earring.
Why Is the Distribution of Carat Weight Important in Pricing?
The distribution of carat weight matters because the price of diamonds increases exponentially with size. For instance, a ring with six small stones and a 1-carat center stone might cost less than a ring with a 1-carat diamond in the center and two larger accent stones, even though they have the same total carat weight. This is because larger stones are rarer and, therefore, more valuable.
Carat, Knowledge Base
Chris Galey
Chris Galey is a GIA and IGI Certified Gemologist specializing in lab-grown diamonds and fine jewelry. With over 4 years of experience in the diamond industry, Chris has worked closely with grading reports, stone evaluation, and consumer education. At LooseGrownDiamond.com, he writes in-depth guides on lab-grown diamonds, engagement rings, and jewelry buying, helping thousands of customers make informed and confident purchase decisions. His expertise includes diamond cut quality, certification analysis, and pricing trends in the lab-grown diamond market.
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