
Gemstone Carat vs Ratti: How Much Gemstone Should You Wear According to Vedic Astrology?
Let’s say you are searching for a gemstone for Vedic astrology and start comparing different sellers, where one seller sells Pukhraj for 5 carats, while the other one sells Pukhraj for 5 rattis. Though both stones might look similar in the image displayed, the question arises - are the weights the same? Which of the two measurements should you follow?
The confusion increases further when you start researching astrology stones. You may find that one stone needs to have a specified number of ratti, but the seller gives the weight in carats on the certificate. This is where understanding gemstone carat vs ratti becomes important.
In this blog, we will explain the difference between carat and ratti, how gemstones are measured according to the ancient method in astrology, and how to understand what you should pay attention to while buying gemstones online.
Gemstone Carat vs Ratti: Understanding the difference
The terms "carat" and "ratti" are popularly used when it comes to the weight of gemstones with different bases of origin. It is important to be aware of the meaning of both these terms because they are different when comparing gemstones, especially when purchasing online and following Vedic astrology. Having the knowledge of the exact weight of gems in both of these terms can help in making a better comparison.
Carat: The standard Gemstone weight
Carat is the most recognised unit of measurement for precious stones. This standardized measure benefits consumers in gaining knowledge of the stone's weight regardless of the retailer, type of ornament, or report from a government laboratory. Understanding the meaning of a carat is essential to compare gemstones over the Internet.
- 1 carat = 0.2 grams
- 1 carat = 200 milligrams
- 5 carats = 1 gram
Ratti: The traditional Indian measurement
Ratti was an ancient unit of weight used in India, usually to measure gemstones, especially by astrologers. In ancient times, ratti was determined by referring to the gunja or ratti seeds for measuring various gemstones.
Nowadays, ratti is being used in India, especially when the weighing of gemstones is in the context of astrology, but it is important to bear in mind that the weight of ratti can differ according to the conventions used. It is hence better to verify the exact carat value of a ratti from the seller.
Conversion: 1 Ratti ≈ 0.91 Carat
Thus, 5 ratti does not equal 5 carats, and buyers should keep this fact in mind while buying gemstones online.
How Gemstone weight is taken into account in vedic astrology?
Gemstone weight being used in vedic astrology is relative to the body weight of the person wearing it and the type of gemstone being used. In Vedic Gems, gemstone weight is suggested relative to the body weight of the user and the quality of the gemstone used.
How does Gemstone quality affect the recommended weight?
Gemstone quality relates to the recommended carat weights. Higher-quality gemstones may be suggested for carat weights that are less than the average weight, while lower-quality gemstones can be suggested for higher carat weights.
For example, when selecting between gemstones of different quality levels, the recommendation may consider:
- Body Weight: The individual’s weight will be the launching point for the recommendations.
- Gemstone Quality: Higher-quality gemstones could be recommended at lower carat weights as well.
- Lower Quality Stones: Lower-quality gemstones would need to be at a higher carat weight.
- Astrological Relevance: The advisability of a certain gemstone is determined by its purpose in Vedic astrology.
Thus, the choice is not about the biggest stone possible, but rather about finding the right weight & quality combination.
Why Gemstone quality matters alongside weight?

The quality and worth of a stone are influenced by various factors apart from weight. Two stones, having equal weights in carats, could still be different in cut, colour, clarity, treatment, and transparency, resulting in them looking different.
What should you check along with Carat or Ratti?
- Natural Status: Make sure that your stone is either a natural stone, synthetic, or an imitation.
- Treatment: Make sure to get information about whether your stone has been treated in any way.
- Colour: Try to choose a stone that has the most attractive colour based on its type.
- Clarity and Transparency: Make sure to evaluate whether you can see the inclusions and how transparent the stone is.
- Cut: Choose a stone that has a proper cut.
- Certification: In the case of especially valuable stones, a report issued by a reputable government lab may help you understand the qualities of the stone.
How to compare Gemstone weight when buying online?
Whenever you are buying something on the internet, do not look at the mentioned number for ratti or carat but rather compare items by their details.
Know all the facts about the Gemstone
- Get the Carat Weight: Determine the exact weight of the stone you are buying.
- Get the Value in Ratti: If the seller mentions ratti, remember to ask how much it weighs in carats.
- Compare the Certificate: If you have received a government lab report, compare the numbers provided in it.
- Measure the Size of the Stone: "Carat" provides the weight, whereas in millimeters, you can receive the actual size of the stone.
- Know the Weight of the Jewellery: One should not confuse the total weight of the ring with that of the stone.
Which measurement should you follow?
When buying gemstones on the Internet, it is much more beneficial for you to compare them using the carat system, but there is still a common method of measuring them using the ratti, which is used by astrologers in Vedic or Indian astrology.
If you happen to be told by an astrologer that you need a gemstone weighing a certain number of rattis, do not simply buy an equivalent number of carats. For instance, 5 rattis does not mean 5 carats.
Understanding gemstone carat vs ratti can help you compare the actual weight of different gemstones and make sure you are purchasing the appropriate amount of stone.
Make sure to ask the seller about the different measurements of the gemstone to ensure that you are buying the right amount of stone and have the actual weight of the gemstone.
Get expert Gemstone guidance
When considering a Vedic gemstone purchase, you need to think about much more than just finding out its weight. A gemstone’s astrological compatibility, quality, authenticity, treatment, and proper weight must be understood together.
If you face difficulty in selecting a particular gemstone or its weight, consult an expert before you buy one.
Find the gemstone collection or Vedic gemstone consulting services available at Pure Vedic Gems. You can also learn about gemstone laboratory certification.
Pure Vedic Gems allows you to buy real and certified gemstones since it has a long history from 1937.
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FAQs about Gemstone Carat and Ratti
What is a Ratti in gemstones?
Ratti is a traditional Indian unit of weight commonly used for gemstones, particularly in Vedic astrology and the Indian gemstone market.
How many carats are in one Ratti?
A commonly used gemstone-market conversion is approximately, 1 ratti = 0.91 carat. However, traditional standards can vary, so confirm the conversion being used by the seller.
Does body weight determine gemstone weight?
Not necessarily. Some traditional methods consider body weight, but gemstone weight may also be considered according to the Kundli, planetary factors, gemstone type and the astrologer's approach.
Is a heavier gemstone always better?
No. Weight should be considered together with natural status, colour, clarity, transparency, treatment, cut and astrological suitability.
Can I wear a smaller high-quality gemstone?
Depending on the astrological guidance being followed, a smaller but high-quality gemstone may be considered. The largest available gemstone is not automatically the right choice.
How is gemstone weight calculated?
A gemstone's weight is measured using a precise weighing scale. When buying online, check the actual gemstone weight separately from the total weight of the jewellery.
Should I choose carat or Ratti when buying online?
Carat is easier for standardised comparison, while ratti is commonly used in traditional Indian astrology. Ideally, ask the seller to provide both measurements so you can compare the gemstone accurately.



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