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Ideal Cuts

<table style="border-collapse:collapse;width: 100%;"><tbody><tr>
	<td style="width: 20.5765%;">Shape </td>
	<td style="width: 79.3241%;">Oval cut diamonds are in the second
 tier of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/diamond-shapes/">most popular diamond shapes</a>, right next to traditional
 round cut diamonds. To buy the most recent cut shape, look for an oval cut
 with faceting like the one shown in image three below.&nbsp; </td></tr>
<tr>
	<td>Cut </td>
	<td>Regarding&nbsp;cut,
 a depth of 55-63% and a table of 52-63% are preferred. Follow our chart
 below carefully while analyzing the cut of an oval diamond. </td></tr><tr>
	<td>Bow-Tie </td>
	<td>The&nbsp;bow-tie effect&nbsp;is a critical factor to consider, and if an oval cut
 diamond is poorly cut, it will have a large bow-tie effect. Review our
 instructions below and assess each diamond carefully for its bow-tie
 effect before placing an order online. </td></tr><tr>
	<td>L/W Ratio </td>
	<td>Oval cut diamonds have a fantastic spread and surface
 size (they look big), but you must buy a diamond with the right&nbsp;length-to-width
 ratio.&nbsp;Oval cut diamonds in the range
 of 1.38%-1.55% ratio are perfect, depending on how round or elongated you
 want the diamond to look. See our chart below for details. </td></tr>
<tr>
	<td>Color </td>
	<td>D, E &amp; F diamonds are colorless and ideal for oval cut diamonds. G color also offers excellent value. H to J colors are also considered near colorless and are good budget options.&nbsp; </td></tr>
<tr>
	<td>Clarity </td>
	<td>While Flawless to VVS2 are top clarity grades, VS1 and VS2 are exceptional choices. When considering SI1 and SI2 clarity grades, carefully assess the diamond for brilliance. </td></tr>
<tr>
	<td>Certification </td>
	<td>Always buy an oval cut diamond that is either&nbsp;graded&nbsp;by&nbsp;GIA or AGS. Please carefully review the section below on how to read a grading report. </td></tr>
<tr>
	<td>Fluorescence </td>
	<td>Fluorescence&nbsp;is a negative factor in oval cut diamonds. Avoiding
 fluorescence in D-E color diamonds is best. At the same time, faint is okay in F to G color diamonds, and medium blue is acceptable in H and I color
 diamonds. </td></tr>
<tr>
	<td>Settings</td>
	<td>While many settings are available in the marketplace, halo and classic designs suit oval diamonds particularly well; here&nbsp;are our top picks for <a href="https://www.petragems.com/oval-engagement-rings/">oval cut engagement rings</a>&nbsp;for your reference.</td></tr><tr>
	<td>4Cs Prioritization </td>
	<td>When&nbsp;comparing&nbsp;different oval cut diamonds within a given budget
 range, if you do not have budget constraints and want a high-quality
 stone, look for something like this (<a href="https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.01-carat-d-color-vvs2-clarity-sku-18362253?a_aid=5c83f22427304" class="external" rel="nofollow">option 1</a>, VS1, F+ range). If
 you are trying to maximize carat weight within your budget without
 compromising quality, look for an oval cut diamond within this range (<a href="https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/1.50-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-sku-18085466?a_aid=5c83f22427304" class="external" rel="nofollow">option 2</a>, SI1, H+ range). If
 you do not mind compromising more on the other 3Cs (cut, color, clarity)
 to maximize the carat weight (as long as the stone is eye-clean),
 something like this might work for you (<a href="https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/1.50-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-18158261?a_aid=5c83f22427304" class="external" rel="nofollow">option 3</a>, SI2, J+ range). Finally, if you want to compromise on
 one C to maximize the other 3Cs, compromise on color while prioritizing
 clarity and cut (<a href="https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.01-carat-k-color-vs1-clarity-sku-18748707?a_aid=5c83f22427304" class="external" rel="nofollow">option 4</a>. VS1, K-M range). </td></tr><tr>
	<td>Best Places</td>
	<td>Here is a list of our <a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/best-place-to-buy-diamonds-or-engagement-rings-online/">top-rated retailers</a> for buying oval cut diamonds.</td></tr></tbody></table>

Oval Cut Diamonds Key Highlights

Similar to other elegant diamond shapes, preferences for an oval cut diamond also vary based on the length-to-width ratios of the shape. A traditional oval cut diamond typically features a length-to-width ratio of 1.50 or falls within the approximate range of 1.36 to 1.60. This range elongates the outline sufficiently to distinguish it from a round-cut diamond. However, the shape can resemble a marquise cut if the elongation becomes excessive.<a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/oval-cut-diamonds/" target="_blank"><img src="https://admin.petragems.com/api/Images/Picture38.jpg" alt="Oval Cut Diamonds Length to Width " width="511" height="221" title="Oval Cut Diamond Ratio"></a>Ideal Length-to-Width Ratio of 1.45

The "bow-tie effect" phenomenon is noticeable in nearly all oval, marquise, and pear-cut diamonds. Given its significance in evaluating oval cut diamonds, we invite buyers to explore our dedicated article on the impact of the <a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/diamond-bowtie-effect/">bow-tie effect</a> on fancy-cut diamonds for a deeper understanding. In our view, a subtle "bow-tie effect" enhances the appeal of an oval cut diamond. Conversely, avoiding a pronounced "bow-tie effect" is advisable, as it suggests suboptimal diamond cutting.To meticulously compare distinct diamonds, utilize advanced tools like this <a href="https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/all-diamonds/?a_aid=5c83f22427304" class="external" rel="nofollow">video technology</a>, featuring 40X magnification. It can aid in evaluating the influence of a diamond's cut proportions on its overall brilliance. Furthermore, it is a valuable resource for determining the ideal length-to-width ratio that aligns with your preferences.The following proportions serve
 as a general guideline when evaluating the cut quality of an oval cut diamond.





<table class="MsoNormalTable" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="780" style="width: 97.4886%; margin-left: 0.532725%;">
 <tbody>
 <tr>
 <td valign="top" style="width: 22.8261%;">
 Depth % 
 Poor/Fair: &lt;51 or
 &gt;75/71-75 
 Good: 54-56/ 66-71 
 Very Good: 56-58/62-66 
 Excellent: 57-62
 </td>
 <td valign="top" style="width: 25.6211%;">
 Table % 
 Poor/Fair: &lt;51 or
 &gt;72 / 70-72 
 Good: 50 / 66-69 
 Very Good: 52/65 
 Excellent: 53-64
 </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td valign="top">
 Culet 
 Poor/Fair: Very
 Large/Large 
 Good: Slightly large 
 Very Good: Medium/Very Small 
 Excellent: None
 </td>
 <td valign="top">
 Girdle 
 Poor/Fair: Ex. Thin
 – Ex. Thick 
 Good: Very thin - thick 
 Very Good: Very thin - slightly thick 
 Excellent: Very thin - slightly thick
 </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td valign="top" colspan="2">
 Length-to-Width Ratio 
 Poor/Fair: &gt;1.66
 /1.62-1.66 
 Good: 1.57-1.61 
 Very Good: 1.51-1.56 
 Excellent: 1.36-1.50
 </td>
 
 </tr>
 </tbody>
</table>A traditional oval diamond typically has a length-to-width ratio of 1.50. Nevertheless, determining the optimal length-to-width ratio depends on individual preference and taste. From our perspective, we hold an affinity for ratios within the range of 1.40 to 1.55.&nbsp;As illustrated below in the section on how to read a <a href="https://www.petragems.com/gia-diamond-certification/">GIA grading report</a>, a diamond&nbsp;certificate provides precise measurements that
facilitate the calculation of the length-to-width ratio for an oval cut diamond
(achieved by dividing the length by the width). <a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/oval-cut-diamonds/" target="_blank"><img src="https://admin.petragems.com/api/Images/Picture40.jpg" alt="oval cut length to width ratio" width="684" height="249" title="Oval Cut l/w ratio"></a>

When comparing the following three distinct oval cutting styles, we recommend the one with facets resembling the middle image below (please look at the GIA report for its specific cutting style). <a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/oval-cut-diamonds/" target="_blank"><img src="https://admin.petragems.com/api/Images/Picture39.jpg" alt="oval diamond diagram" width="699" height="216" title="oval cut styles"></a>The above cutting styles on the left and right represent older iterations, while the one in the center illustrates the contemporary modified brilliant cut.&nbsp;Featuring 57 to 58
facets, akin to a <a href="https://www.petragems.com/round-cut-diamonds/">round brilliant cut</a>, this modern style offers optimal
brilliance, scintillation, and fire.

Oval Cut Diamond Proportions

Color plays a pivotal role when evaluating oval cut diamonds. After cut, color should be prioritized&nbsp;to maximize a diamond's brilliance. Consider a D-F color range for optimal results unless budget constraints
 dictate otherwise. Nevertheless, <a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/g-color-diamonds/">G color</a> also proves commendable,
 offering a splendid appearance that closely aligns with colorless diamonds in
 terms of their visual allure.<a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/diamond-color/" target="_blank"><img src="https://admin.petragems.com/api/Images/Picture63.jpg" alt="diamond color chart" width="800px" height="522px" title="diamond color chart" style="width: 800px; height: 522px;"></a>

If budget considerations come into play, H and I color present attractive options. Notably, these options come with a significantly
 lower price premium, making them appealing for
 those seeking both cost-effectiveness and visual appeal.

The accompanying table provides an informative reference for your analysis for an in-depth examination of color when buying oval cut diamonds.

<table class="MsoNormalTable" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="780">
 <tbody>
 <tr>
 <td valign="top" style="width: 14.2081%;">
 &lt; 0.50 Carat 
 Poor/Far: &gt;M/ L-M 
 Good: I-K 
 Very Good: G-I 
 Excellent: D-G
 </td>
 <td valign="top" style="width: 14.6739%;">
 0.51 – 1.0 Carat 
 Poor/Fair: J-K /
 &gt;L 
 Good: I 
 Very Good: H 
 Excellent: D-G
 </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td valign="top">
 1.0 – 2.0 Carat 
 Poor/Fair: &gt;J 
 Good: I/H 
 Very Good: G 
 Excellent: D-F
 </td>
 <td valign="top">
 &gt;2.0 Carat 
 Poor/Fair: &gt;J 
 Good: H-I 
 Very Good: F-G 
 Excellent: D-E
 </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td valign="top" colspan="2">
 Fluorescence 
 Poor/Fair: Strong 
 Good: Medium 
 Very Good: Faint 
 Excellent: None
 </td>
 
 </tr>
 </tbody>
</table>

Color in Oval Diamonds

Choose an oval cut diamond that aligns with your standards for clarity. Each buyer has a distinct viewpoint concerning a
 diamond's clarity grade. While some aspire for a flawless gem, others find
 solace in minor inclusions, provided the diamond remains
 visually clean.<a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/diamond-clarity/" target="_blank"><img src="https://admin.petragems.com/api/Images/Picture58.jpg" alt="diamond clarity scale" width="730" height="226" title="diamond clarity scale" style="width: 730px; height: 226px;"></a>

For dependable and accurate diamond clarity grading,
 reputable labs like <a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/gia-vs-ags/">GIA and AGS</a> are benchmarks. Typically, most SI1
 diamonds in the 1-1.3 carat range are perceivably free from inclusions to the
 naked eye. However, when considering diamonds exceeding 1.5 carats, opting for
 a <a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/vs1-vs2-diamond-clarity-/">VS2 clarity grade</a> is generally advisable.

Use the
 following chart as a general guideline when evaluating the clarity grades of oval cut diamonds depending on their carat weight:

<table class="MsoNormalTable" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="780">
 <tbody>
 <tr>
 <td valign="top" style="width: 14.5963%;">
 &lt;0.5 Carat 
 Poor/Fair: &gt;I1/ I1 
 Good: SI2 
 Very Good: SI1-VS2 
 Excellent: FL-VS1
 </td>
 <td valign="top" style="width: 15.9938%;">
 0.51 – 1.0 Carat 
 Poor/Fair: &gt; I1 
 Good: SI2 
 Very Good: SI1-VS2 
 Excellent: FL-VS1
 </td>
 </tr>
 <tr>
 <td valign="top">
 1.0 – 2.0 Carat 
 Poor/Fair: &gt;I1 
 Good: SI2-SI1 
 Very Good: VS2 
 Excellent: FL-VS1
 </td>
 <td valign="top">
 &gt;2.0 Carat 
 Poor/Fair: &gt;I1 
 Good: SI2-SI1 
 Very Good: VS1-VS2 
 Excellent: FL-WS2
 </td>
 </tr>
 </tbody>
</table>

Clarity in Oval Diamonds

In addition to the well-known 4Cs, buyers must be familiar with the following key aspects of an oval cut diamond grading report or certificate, as highlighted in the image below.<img src="	https://admin.petragems.com/api/Images/img-1692912262.jpeg" alt="oval cut GIA certificate " width="818" height="501" title="Oval cut diamond grading report" style="width: 818px; height: 501px;"> Watch <a href="https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/1.23-carat-d-color-vs2-clarity-sku-18610525?a_aid=5c83f22427304/" class="external" rel="nofollow">HD Video</a> of this Diamond. Measurements:&nbsp;This holds significance as it provides the buyer with information about the surface size of the diamond (indicating how large the diamond will appear in millimeters). This will also give you the length-to-width ratio&nbsp;by dividing the length by width (in the above case, it is 8.47/6.02=1.4).Fluorescence:&nbsp;This should be regarded as the 5th C. Given that the color is D, avoiding fluorescence is the optimal choice in this specific example. However, medium blue fluorescence is not as concerning as strong blue fluorescence.Comments:&nbsp;This section will display factors related to clarity and&nbsp;highlight whether a diamond has undergone clarity enhancement utilizing methods like laser drilling or color enhancement. Additionally, be attentive to comments such as "clarity grade based on clouds," which is a worrisome indicator within clarity grades of VS2 and below. The laser inscription of the report number on the girdle is positioned above the comments section, offering an optional service for added verification.Proportions: This chart is the most crucial for assessing the cut of a diamond. Specifically, pay attention to the table percentage (60% in the example, excellent), depth percentage (62.4%, excellent), girdle (medium, excellent), and culet (none, excellent).Clarity Characteristics:&nbsp;This section will indicate the types of inclusions and their respective locations. It can help buyers avoid diamonds with visible inclusions at the center. These details are also useful for correlating the report with the diamond, as these inclusions serve as the diamond's unique birthmarks.

Reading Oval Cut GIA Report

Below, we have provided four primary scenarios of how our clients have frequently prioritized the <a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/4cs-of-diamond/">4Cs </a>during their search and shopping process. These scenarios are designed to aid potential buyers in establishing a suitable strategy when buying oval cut diamonds.<img src="	https://admin.petragems.com/api/Images/img-1688497125.jpeg" alt="oval cut rose white gold diamond engagement ring" width="408px" height="304px" title="oval cut diamond engagement ring" style="width: 408px; height: 304px;"> Scenario 1: Quality-Driven Approach

Clients in this category prioritize top-tier quality. They
 opt for the finest combination of 4Cs within each carat weight range.&nbsp;Their selection for diamonds above 1 carat includes F color, VS1 clarity,
 excellent cut, no fluorescence, and GIA/AGS certification. This emphasis on
 quality ensures buyers acquire premium-grade diamonds.

Scenario 2: Balancing Quality and Size

In this scenario, clients seek a balance between quality and
 size. While still valuing quality, they are willing to make slight concessions
 to secure a larger diamond. Their choice centers around a 1.5-carat diamond
 with SI1/VS2 clarity, G/H color, very good to excellent cut, medium blue
 fluorescence at most, and GIA/AGS certification. These diamonds maintain high
 quality while accommodating a larger size.

Scenario 3: Emphasizing Size with Moderate Compromises

Buyers here prioritize size while moderately compromising on
 the 3Cs. They prioritize a larger stone as long as it remains visually clean
 and displays ample brilliance. They prefer a <a href="https://www.petragems.com/blog/how-much-does-a-2-carat-diamond-cost/">2-carat diamond</a>
 with I/J color, SI1/SI2 clarity, strong blue fluorescence at most, very good to
 ideal proportions, and GIA/AGS certification. An adequate understanding of
 clarity assessment is essential, particularly in avoiding visible inclusions
 like large black crystals.

Scenario 4: Maximized 3Cs with Color Compromise

Clients in this scenario are willing to compromise heavily
 on one "C" to elevate the importance of the 3Cs. Their focus shifts
 to clarity and cut while compromising on color. This choice maintains fire and
 brilliance while resulting in a slightly warmer diamond. An optimal choice
 entails a VVS2 clarity, L color, medium to strong blue fluorescence, and ideal
 proportions. Notably, certifications from IGI or HRD grading labs are also
 viable, given their consistency in grading diamonds with lower color grades, even if
 they might be less strict than GIA in grading high-quality stones.

Use the above scenarios to narrow your selection criteria according to your preferences and priorities.

Balancing 4Cs in Oval Cut Diamonds

Although a universal formula for determining oval cut <a href="https://www.petragems.com/diamond-prices/">diamond prices</a> is yet to be developed, the prices below represent our most informed approximation for competitive retail prices of oval cut diamonds with a GIA grading report, ideal proportions, and no fluorescence.<ul><li>1 Carat,&nbsp;D-E Color, FL-VVS ($8,400-9,800),&nbsp;G-H Color, VS1-VS2 Clarity ($4,400-6,600).</li><li>1.5 Carats,&nbsp;D-E Color, FL-VVS ($18,500-23,000),&nbsp;G-H Color, VS1-VS2 Clarity ($92,00-12,500)</li><li>2 Carats,&nbsp;D-E Color, FL-VVS ($32,000-39,000),&nbsp;G-H Color, VS1-VS2 Clarity ($20,000-25,000)</li><li>2.5 Carats,&nbsp;D-E Color, FL-VVS ($52,000-64,000),&nbsp;G-H Color, VS1-VS2 Clarity ($33,000-$42,000)</li><li>3 Carats,&nbsp;D-E Color, FL-VVS ($85,000-110,000),&nbsp;G-H Color, VS1-VS2 Clarity ($43,000-56,000)</li></ul><a href="https://www.petragems.com/oval-engagement-rings/" target="_blank"><img src="	https://admin.petragems.com/api/Images/img-1688267206.jpeg" alt="oval shaped engagement rings" width="423" title="oval cut engagement ring" style="width: 423px; height: 270px;" height="270"></a><a href="https://www.petragems.com/oval-engagement-rings/">Top Oval Shaped Engagement Rings</a> See the following suggested
 carat weight, cut, color, and clarity of oval cut diamonds for people on a
 tight budget.

Excellent Choice

<ul type="disc">
 <li class="MsoNormal">At least 1.2 Carat in Weight</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">Very Good to Excellent Polish and Symmetry</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">G or above in color</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">SI1 or above in clarity</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">No Fluorescence</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">Length/width ratios: 1.36 - 1.58</li>
</ul>

Very Good Choice

<ul type="disc">
 <li class="MsoNormal">At least 1 Carat in Weight</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">Good to Excellent Polish and Symmetry</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">H or above in Color</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">SI1 or above in Clarity</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">None, faint or medium blue fluorescence</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">Length/width ratios: 1.36 - 1.58</li>
</ul>

Good Choice

<ul type="disc">
 <li class="MsoNormal">At least 0.90 Carats in Weight</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">Good to Very Good Polish and Symmetry</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">I or above in Color</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">SI1 or above in Clarity</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">None, faint or medium blue fluorescence</li>
 <li class="MsoNormal">Length/width ratios: 1.36 - 1.58</li></ul>Check our guide on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.petragems.com/education/lab-grown-diamonds/">lab-created diamonds</a>&nbsp;as
 an alternative to natural diamonds for budget-conscious buyers.

Oval Cut Prices & Budget Options

Are oval cut diamonds
 popular?

Following round cut diamonds, oval diamonds have recently risen in popularity, claiming the position of one of the most sought-after shapes. They have gained traction among individuals who appreciate the appeal of round diamonds but are seeking a distinct and unique choice.

What about the size of
 oval cut diamonds compared to round cut diamonds?

Oval cut diamonds have a substantial surface area. Their elongated shape results in a larger surface area measured in millimeters compared to a round diamond

Do oval cut diamonds
 sparkle the same as round diamonds?

While rounds are the
 king of sparkle and scintillation because of modern cutting techniques, oval
 cut diamonds are the queen. They stand second in sparkle to round diamonds and
 have similar brilliant faceting that qualifies the diamond as a modified brilliant
 cut.

What about the bow-tie
 effect in oval cut diamonds?

The bow tie is a concern that can hurt oval cut diamonds. Carefully review our bow-tie guide and discuss the bow-tie effect with the retailer before purchasing an oval cut diamond. If a stone is cut poorly with uneven proportions, it will exhibit a significant bow tie—a clear indicator of a substandard cut.

What is the ideal
 length-to-width ratio for oval cut diamonds?

A range of 1.3 to 1.6 is considered favorable. The choice within this range hinges on how close to a round appearance you desire the stone to be. Any measurement falling between these values is suitable, though our preferred range is 1.4 to 1.55.

Check our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.petragems.com/blog/buy-a-diamond-ring-without-getting-duped/">loose diamonds</a>&nbsp;page for recommendations for the best places to buy
 oval cut diamonds.

Oval Cut Diamonds FAQ

Oval cut diamonds are renowned for their remarkable
    brilliance and fiery display, further enhanced by their elongated form that
    imparts a perception of 

Oval Cut Diamonds: In-Depth Guide, Proportions, L/W Ratio

Sharif Khan

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