There's more than one way to wear a carat of diamonds on your finger. A ring with a classic solitaire at this weight (right) will generally cost thousands. But a band covered with tiny pavé diamonds that add up to just under 1 carat (left) sparkles plenty and can cost up to 90 percent less than a ring with a big center stone.

.89 total carats of brilliant-cut round pave diamonds in 14kt white gold ($1,150) and 1.09-carat brilliant-cut round diamond in 18kt white gold ($12,500), Fortunoff; 800-367-8866.