Sell a Half Carat Diamond

Last reviewed · June 2026

What a half carat is worth on resale

Color / ClarityExcellent cutGood cutLab-grown
D–F / VVS$900 – $1,300$700 – $1,000$160 – $250
G–H / VS$600 – $900$450 – $700$120 – $200
I–J / SI$400 – $600$320 – $500$90 – $160
K+ / I$300 – $450$220 – $350$80 – $130

The right channel for smaller stones

At this price level, friction is the enemy. An online upfront buyer that pays within a few days and includes free insured shipping usually wins. Auction commissions of ~20% take too much from a $700 stone, and pawn shops typically pay 30% to 50% under online buyers.

FAQ

How much is a half carat diamond worth?
A half carat (0.5ct) natural diamond in the US typically resells for $300 to $1,300, depending on cut, color, clarity, and certification. Lab-grown half carats resell for $80 to $250.
Is it worth getting a GIA report for a half carat?
Usually not. At a $113 GIA fee on a stone that retails for $1,500 to $2,500, the math is tight. The report still helps, but at this size most sellers go straight to a buyer with no report.
Where should I sell a small diamond?
An online upfront buyer is usually the most efficient option for half-carat stones. Pawn shops pay the least, and auction commissions can eat too much of a smaller stone's value.

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