Oval diamonds are one of the most popular diamond shapes available from vendors today. Just like round and other types of diamonds, you should make use of the four C’s criteria: clarity, cut, color and carat weight when shopping for oval diamonds. The following post can help you gain more knowledge and help you choose a good quality diamond by distinguishing good stones from low quality or even fake ones.
Facts About Oval Diamonds
Oval diamonds are very similar to round ones, the major difference lies in their shape. The concept of this diamond shape was introduced by the jeweler Lazare Kaplan in the 1960’s. Since the facet is similar to the round diamond, they resemble each other in the way they sparkle. These two types have an ideal sparkle thanks to their capacity to reflect light well. While some types are slightly more elongated, others have a rounder shape.
Diamond Settings
Oval diamonds do not chip or break easily since they do not have any sharp edges; they are usually set in the following ways:
• Bezel setting – This type of setting covers the entire boundary of the stone and provides it maximum safety.
• Prong Setting – The six-prong setting enhances both the beauty as well as the safety of this diamond shape.
• Side Stone Setting – Ovals can be embedded along with gems such as sapphires, rubies and diamonds serving as side stones to give a whole new look. The diamond in the center can be paired with half moon or smaller ovals on the side as well.
You should refrain from choosing a large round diamond as a side stone, as it may reduce the luster and sparkle of the diamond in the center. Selecting from bigger ovals as the center stone and smaller side stones will highlight the brilliance of the main stone and create a better impact.
This diamond shape should be cut just right otherwise, it may suffer from what is known as the Bow-tie Effect. The Bow-tie or Dark Shadow Effect can affect the clarity and sparkle of the diamond and make it look inferior and dull. This flaw is generally not mentioned in diamond certificates and can only be identified through visual inspection.
Specialties
Although oval diamonds resemble their round counterparts in several aspects, their unique shape entices more individuals to buy them. Their rare and distinctive appearance make them the topmost choice for those who are looking for something novel or less conventional. For the best look, you can match the shape of the diamond to your finger, since they are available in an array of measurements and designs; this, coupled with their sparkling brilliance make oval diamonds highly popular.
Pendants
When it comes to diamond pendants, oval diamonds are a far more popular choice than round diamonds. An oval shaped diamond resting below the neck creates an elegance that other cuts just do not have. Oval diamond pendants can hang from gold, silver or platinum chains; they can have side stones or stand alone.
Things to look for when buying oval diamonds
You should take note of the length to width ratio when shopping for oval diamonds. Diamonds having a narrow or longer appearance will typically have a higher ratio and would be apt for slender or longer fingers. Just as in round brilliants, you can apply the four C’s principle when shopping for oval diamonds for your use. A carat weight of around 1, color grade of “G”, a “Good” cut rating and a clarity grade of SI1 or SI2 signifies a good quality diamond.
Rough Diamonds
Diamonds in the rough are grey coal blocks that are dull looking in their initial stages. Through careful polishing and well delivered cuts, they take on the luster and sparkle of loose diamonds. Fortunately, with sophisticated technologies, such as laser cutting and computer aided design, oval diamonds can be made more brilliant and fiery than ever before.
The elliptical shape of this diamond is what makes it appealing to a vast section of people. Typically, all oval shaped diamonds have a star pattern at the base and a rose like appearance at the top. These diamonds are normally placed in a north south direction in the rings.
How are diamonds evaluated?
Before the final sale, all types of loose diamonds should be checked and certified by a gemologist. Even a layperson can detect flaws in the cut of a diamond by examining it under a bright light.
Oval Diamonds – Price
Since there is less waste when cutting oval diamonds, they are cheaper compared to round diamonds. The balanced shape of these diamonds makes them ideal for use in bracelets, rings, pendants and necklaces; oval cut engagement and wedding rings are also gaining popularity these days.
Famous Examples
Oval diamond rings are increasingly sported by the rich and the famous, thanks to their unique style and appeal. On their wedding, Tom Cruise presented an oval diamond wedding ring to his fiancée Katie Holmes. Oval diamonds are also sported by other celebrities such as famous soccer player Victoria Beckham and actress Rebecca Romijn. Whitney Houston also flaunted a 4-cart oval shaped ring with side stones.
Oval shaped diamonds have a fire and brilliance similar to round brilliant diamonds, but with the former, you have something different and unique instead of the classic round shape. Such a cut will suit smaller fingers by imparting a feminine and elegant look. Two-tone and three-tone gold and platinum jewelry set with oval and round diamonds are also a trend right now. You can shop for the diamonds of your choice based on your personal taste and budget in online or offline stores.
Rings with oval diamonds can withstand daily wear and tear, since they lack any sharp or pointed edges. Hence, you can wear them without worry even while carrying on your normal day-to-day activities. However, while sporting other types of rings such as marquise rings, you should exercise caution because these can be damaged easily owing to their pointed and sharp edges.
Oval diamonds are a great choice whether it be for a ring, pendant or diamond earrings.
