Choosing the proper engagement and wedding rings can be a challenging task. That’s why we’ve created a short list of the most important details you should take into account as you shop for such a special occasion.
Here is an easy ring guide for when it comes to picking your oval engagement ring.
Tall or Short?
While the standard length-to-width ratio of an oval cut is 1.35–1.50, whether you should purchase a longer or wider oval is entirely up to the look that you and your significant other prefer. A more elongated oval cut will appear striking. A wide oval engagement ring will appear slightly softer. If you know that accent stones will surround your oval-cut diamond, choose a narrower length-to-width ratio.
Mind the Bowtie
Every oval-cut diamond ring will have a trace of the bow tie effect, which looks like a shadow in the center of the diamond. Usually, a mild bow tie will enhance the unique beauty of the diamond, but if the bow tie effect is too pronounced, you may want to avoid that particular gem. The bow tie effect is best identified with a visual inspection. Ask the jeweler who analyzes your ring to view the certification report to be sure that the bow tie in your diamond matches its notation on the certificate.
Room to Shine
On average, 1-carat oval diamonds have a 10% larger surface area than 1-carat round diamonds. Because of this particular surface area difference, oval diamonds appear larger than round diamonds with the same carat weight. When you purchase an oval diamond engagement ring, you can get a diamond that appears more significant than its carat, or you can buy a lower carat weight with the same appearance as a higher carat gemstone.
More Beauty for Your Buck
Oval diamonds are rarer than round or princess cuts—but they’re not as in demand. You will pay more for a round or princess-cut diamond than an oval diamond of the same carat weight. This surprising price difference is because oval diamonds allow jewelers to cut away less of the original rough diamond than when shaving a round-cut diamond.
Still not sure where to start? Reach out to a jewelry consultant who can help you compare diamonds and access featured collections so you can find your perfect oval-cut engagement ring.