Oval vs. Round Cut Diamonds: Choosing the Perfect Shape

When shopping for an engagement ring, the apparent size of the stone is something you need to consider, as it can impact the style and perceived value of the diamond. After all, the goal is to purchase a ring that leaves a lasting impression.

The larger apparent size of the oval cut can accentuate your fingers and give the engagement ring a unique style. When we compare an oval shape to a round shape, we perceive it as larger because we size it from top to bottom, creating the illusion of a bigger stone with a greater overall surface area.

While the round shape remains the most popular and classic choice among shoppers, the oval shape is gaining increasing fame. Firstly, it is considerably less expensive and offers a distinctive style. Additionally, the oval shape gives you more options for different shapes and styles.

The round shape is more durable than stones with other fancy cuts. However, the oval shape shares this advantage. Ovals do not have sharp edges that can chip off, ensuring their durability.

That being said, the durability of the diamond will ultimately depend on the quality of the cut. Since oval cuts are more likely to have irregular shapes and symmetry, they can be more susceptible to damage.

When it comes to style, no shape will be ideal for everyone. The round shape is considered the most popular and most recognizable classic style. But it is not ideal for all shapes and sizes of fingers.

The round cut is perfect for long fingers. However, it is not as flattering as the oval cut. Round shapes may differ in size but are always the same shape. The oval shape provides a greater variety of suitable styles, especially for those with short, chubby, or petite fingers, to choose from.

Ovals come in different ratios. The ratios may range from 1.30 to 1.66. The most common ratio is 1.45, closer to the traditional style. Those with short, chubby, and petite fingers have more ratios available to choose the most flattering ring.

The stone’s size and shape can help you get a flattering ring. Small stones are ideal for smaller fingers. People with small and short fingers are best suited to a small oval stone. Those with long chubby fingers should choose a round or oval of considerable size.

Both cuts are sophisticated and classy. They are, therefore, suitable for engagement rings and most types of elegant jewelry. After all, they are made from a similar cut designed to enhance their sparkle and brilliance.

However, round diamonds are more popular for diamond engagement rings since they have more fire and brilliance. The main problem with the oval shape is the bow-tie lines in some stones. They impact the quality of the fire and brilliance.

While GIA grading may indicate whether a stone has blemishes, it does not indicate whether it has bow-tie lines. Yet bow-tie lines are an important consideration to make when you are buying a stone. The oval cut almost always has these lines. They range from easily discernible to barely perceivable with the naked eye.

So, what does this mean?

When going for an oval shape, you need to examine them closely. Remember that the bow tie is best seen when the stone is face up. This also means you need to be discerning when buying diamonds online. Pictures you view on a website may fail to indicate the extent and true nature of the diamond.

The symmetry of the stone is not that significant for round cuts. Although, round cuts have the disadvantage of creating more waste during cutting. This is part of the reason why they are costlier.

But symmetry is most critical when choosing an oval diamond. The two opposite points must be perfectly aligned; otherwise, the piece will look odd. Not all cuts are perfect. So, shoppers must pay attention to any uneven symmetry that can be discerned on the oval stone.

The stone setting is another important factor that you should not ignore, especially when choosing a unique engagement ring. When it comes to setting, there are two factors you need to balance, the brilliance and durability of the stone.

Setting can affect the brilliance of an oval cut stone. For example, in a prong setting, the more prongs you have, the more the sparkle and fire will be compromised. Also, it hides part of the stone, potentially ruining its style. But fewer prongs may fail to protect the diamond from impact.

The Solitaire, Prong, and Bezel are the most popular engagement ring settings. The solitaire raises the stone so that it is visible and reflects light. Oval shapes have a lower brilliance than round shapes. So, you need to consider the prong size and ensure it doesn’t compromise on brilliance.

But you must also remember that the fewer the prongs, the more unsafe the stone will be. Bigger stones will require more prongs. This shouldn’t be a big problem, even for the oval cut, since a larger stone reflects more light.

Round cut diamonds typically have 4 or 6 prongs. Thanks to their circular shape, they do not require much stability. Oval diamonds can be in 4, 6, or 8 prongs. The slightly more pointed edge of this cut requires more prongs for safety.

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The oval shape is a top choice for those looking for a ring to accentuate their style. The halo may therefore be another good choice for an oval shape.

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The halo makes the stone appear larger and increases the overall sparkle of the stone. It can accentuate a small stone improving its brilliance. It also has the effect of elongating the stone on the ring. The elongating effect is suitable for those opting for an oval shape to make their fingers appear longer.

Every diamond buyer should be aware of the discrepancies between the grade and the perceived characteristics and quality of the stone. Two diamonds may have the same grade, but when examined next to each other, one may show more imperfections.

Both round and oval shapes do not easily show color. The arrangement of their facets disperses light more effectively and makes the color less discernible. This is an advantage when choosing a setting made of platinum or gold.

The nature of color grading is that it is not always the same as when assessed by the naked eye. So, you need to check the stone and examine its color. You can buy a low-grade stone for these shapes and reduce the cost of the ring. Since oval cut diamonds are less costly, you can work with a tighter budget than a round stone.

The cut of a diamond is often regarded as the most crucial factor influencing its brilliance. To ensure you acquire the finest cut diamond, adhere to our recommended cut proportions.

Round cuts are exceptionally popular and versatile. They present fewer challenges regarding settings, brilliance, and revealing flaws, color variations, or inclusions. However, it's worth noting that round cut diamonds can be expensive, particularly when considering all factors.

Oval shaped diamonds offer a potential cost-saving advantage. They are not as commonly sought after as their round counterparts, which can translate into cost savings. Additionally, oval diamonds offer advantages in brilliance and the ability to conceal color variations. Nevertheless, they require scrutiny due to potential issues like the bow-tie effect and symmetry concerns. The round cut remains the top choice when price is not a significant consideration, and you primarily seek brilliance. Nonetheless, it's crucial to carefully evaluate all factors to secure the best possible deal.