Oval Diamond

- One of the diamond cuts that is growing in popularity over the last several decades is the oval cut diamond. Created by Lazare Kaplan during the early 1960’s, the oval cut diamond is a modified version of the round brilliant cut. For people that are looking for characteristics similar to the round “ideal cut”, but would like a diamond that is more unique to fit their style and tastes, the oval cut diamond is an excellent choice.

The oval cut diamond is configured similarly to the round cut. There are 56 facets that are typical for oval diamonds, but since there are no exact methods or measurements, just like with the marquise cut diamond, your personal shape preference should be the determining factor for what you consider the best shape for an oval cut diamond to be.

If you are looking for more direction than just personal preference, a high quality oval cut diamond should have a length to width ratio of 1.5:1. If the oval cut diamond’s ratio is greater than 1.5:1, you will probably notice an undesirable effect called the bow-tie. The bow-tie effect is when a bow-tie shaped dark area on the oval cut diamond occurs usually as the result of improperly cut angles. The oval cut diamond should also have an elliptical shape when viewed from the top of the diamond. 

The oval diamond is becoming increasingly popular as a center stone for engagement rings and wedding rings, but can also be found in a wide range of high quality jewelry.

Typical oval cut diamonds reflect light brilliantly and are usually at their best when there is no color at all. As with all fancy shapes, potential buyers should look at the overall clarity and color of the stone. The clarity and color is much more important to the oval cut diamond than the round cut diamond because impurity and inclusions can be much easier to spot. If you are looking for a diamond cut that is similar to the round cut diamond’s characteristics but still is unique in shape, the oval cut diamond should be extremely appealing.

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