The Ultimate Guide to Oval Cut Diamonds
The Allure of an Oval Diamond
An oval diamond has an elongated round shape that evokes an understated elegance, but with a difference. When faceted in the brilliant style, its fire can rival that of a round brilliant. So, get ready to pick the perfect oval diamond, one that will pull on your heart strings with every loving gaze.
In this blog, we cover:
- Anatomy of an Oval Diamond
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History of the Oval Diamond
- What to Look for in an Oval Diamond
- Oval Diamond Engagement Ring Settings
Anatomy of an Oval Diamond
An oval diamond is a fancy shape diamond, often seen as a stretched version of a round brilliant diamond or a rounded cushion shape. Understanding its parts can help you select the perfect stone.
| Part | Description |
|---|---|
| Head/End | The “tips” of the oval |
| Shoulder | The curved area reaching from the head/end to the belly |
| Belly | The central area where the sides curve out the most |
Illustration: Anatomy of an Oval Diamond courtesy of GIA.edu
Modern oval diamonds typically have a brilliant faceting style, which includes 57 or 58 facets—similar to a round brilliant. The most common facet arrangement consists of eight bezel facets on the crown and eight main facets on the pavilion.
Illustration: Oval Diamond Facet Arrangement courtesy of GIA.edu
Why Choose an Oval Diamond?
- Larger appearance: An oval diamond has a larger surface area than a round diamond of equal carat weight, making it appear bigger.
- Flattering shape: The elongated shape can make fingers appear longer and more slender.
- Durability: Unlike sharp-cornered shapes, an oval diamond is less prone to chipping.
History of the Oval Diamond
The brilliant faceting style was introduced around 1700, with cushion-shaped diamonds being predominant. However, ovals were also available. Early oval diamonds were not categorized as strictly as today but were recognised for their unique elegance.
In 1957, the modern oval diamond was refined by the renowned Russian diamond cutter Lazare Kaplan, who perfected its symmetrical proportions and faceting. His work revolutionized the cut, making it one of today’s most popular diamond shapes.
What to Look for in an Oval Diamond
When choosing an oval diamond, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Cut Ratio | Ideal length-to-width ratio: 1.3 – 1.5 |
| Symmetry | Even curves, no visible distortion |
| Bowtie Effect | Minimal dark shadow in the center |
| Colour | G or higher for a bright appearance |
| Clarity | VS2 or higher for eye-clean beauty |
Cut Ratio
Whether you prefer a longer oval diamond or one with a wider belly is purely personal preference. But fitting your preference within the 1.3-1.5 ratio will ensure your diamond will have optimal light refraction capability - that all important sparkle!
Avoiding the Bowtie Effect
A well-cut oval diamond should have a minimal bowtie effect—a dark shadow in the center caused by light leakage. High-quality stones are cut to reduce this issue.
At NZ Jewellers Auckland we are here to help you find your perfect diamond! When looking for elongated diamonds, such as ovals, we are meticulous in searching for those with no visible bow-ties and table inclusions. You can put your trust in our years of expertise. We will send you through videos and grading reports for diamonds that meet your desired specifications for you to choose from.
Best Oval Cut Engagement Ring Settings and Designs
Oval diamonds are incredibly versatile and look stunning in various ring settings. Here are some of the most popular designs:
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Classic Solitaire Oval Ring Design: Timeless and elegant, showcasing the beauty of the oval diamond, with a plain band or accented with pav'e set diamonds.
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Halo Settings Oval Diamonds: Whether antique in style or modern the halo ring design will enhance the oval diamond's appearance, making it appear larger.
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Three-Stone Oval Diamond Settings: Oval? Round? Pear? Featured accent diamonds can add brilliance and sophistication to an oval diamond ring.
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Split Shank Oval Diamond Rings: A stylish design, modern or classic, well suited to the oval diamond shape.
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Bezel Set Oval Diamond Rings: A sleek metal rim encircles the diamond for extra protection and a modern ring design.
- East-West Oval Diamond Rings: Where the oval diamond is set horizontally for a stylish modern look.
Lab-Grown Oval Diamonds vs Mined Diamonds
When considering an oval diamond for your engagement ring, one of the biggest decisions these days is whether to choose a lab-grown or a mined diamond. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds, offering the same brilliance and durability. However, they come with key advantages, including a lower price point—typically 30-50% less than mined diamonds of comparable quality—allowing you to purchase a larger or higher-quality stone for the same budget. Additionally, lab-grown diamonds are a more sustainable choice, as they are created using advanced technology without the environmental impact associated with traditional diamond mining. At NZ Jewellers East Auckland, we specialise in both mined and lab-grown diamonds, ensuring you have the best selection to suit your values, style, and budget.
At NZ Jewellers, we can create bespoke engagement ring designs to suit your style and preferences. Whether you want a timeless solitaire or an intricate vintage-inspired ring, we can craft the perfect piece for you. We can source a range of ethically sourced, IGI, GCAL and GIA-certified oval diamonds. Whether you're shopping online or visiting our store at Botany Town Centre, our team is here to help you find the perfect engagement ring.