17 Apr A Guide to Oval Diamond Engagement Rings
Oval cut diamonds, characterized by their elongated shape and brilliant facets, offer a unique touch to traditional diamond engagement rings. The oval diamond’s elongated structure creates the illusion of lengthening the fingers, making them appear more slender and elegant. Additionally, oval diamonds maximize their carat weight, making them appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight.
Not only do oval diamond rings exude glamour, but they also have a distinctive romantic charm. Their elliptical shape symbolizes an infinite love, and their brilliant sparkle represents the eternal bond shared between two individuals.
So, when it comes to a custom engagement ring that combines sophistication, style, and symbolism, the oval diamond ring is always an option that Carl Blackburn of C. Blackburn Jewelers discusses with San Diego couples.
Let’s dive into the history of oval diamonds, and discuss the important aspects of this diamond cut, so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your dream engagement ring.
The History of the Oval Cut Diamond
The oval-shaped diamond has a rich history that dates back several centuries, although it became more prominent in the 20th century. The creation of today’s oval diamond is often attributed to Lazare Kaplan, a renowned diamond cutter from Russia (1883 – 1986) who also created the Ideal cut diamond.
Kaplan is credited with developing the “modern oval diamond” in the early 1960s. He aimed to create a diamond shape that would combine the brilliance of a round diamond with a unique and elongated silhouette. The result was the oval-shaped diamond, which quickly gained popularity for its elegant appearance and versatility.
While Lazare Kaplan is credited with popularizing the modern oval diamond (which technically is a modified brilliant cut), it’s important to note that oval-shaped diamonds had existed before his time. In antique jewelry from the 18th and 19th centuries, we do find rose cut and brilliant cut diamonds in the shape of an oval set into brooches and pendants. There are also some “old mine cut” or “old European cut” oval diamonds in fine jewelry — although these antique cuts were more commonly used to create cushion shaped diamonds.
It was Kaplan’s innovative approach to cutting and shaping diamonds that helped elevate the oval diamonds to greater heights of popularity in the latter 20th century — not only for engagement rings, but also pendants and earrings.
Comparing Oval Diamond Rings to Other Diamond Shapes
When designing a custom engagement ring in San Diego, it’s important to consider the various diamond shapes available. While each shape has its unique charm, oval diamonds offer several advantages that set them apart.
1. Unique and Eye-Catching: Oval diamonds offer a distinct and eye-catching look that sets them apart from traditional round brilliant cuts. Their elongated shape creates a modern and elegant aesthetic, making them a popular choice for those seeking a unique engagement ring.
2. Size Maximization: Due to their elongated shape, oval diamonds maximize their carat weight, giving the illusion of a larger stone compared to other cuts of the same carat weight. This allows couples to achieve a more significant visual impact without compromising on their budget.
3. Flattering and Versatile: The elongated shape of oval diamonds has a flattering effect on the fingers, making them appear longer and more slender. This characteristic makes oval diamond rings a versatile choice that complements a wide range of hand shapes and sizes.
4. Brilliant Sparkle: Oval diamonds are cut with brilliant facets, which enhance their sparkle and brilliance. This creates an eye-catching display of light and fire, making oval diamond rings truly mesmerizing.
How to Choose the Perfect Oval Cut Diamond
When choosing an oval diamond for a San Diego engagement ring, several factors should be considered to ensure you find the perfect stone. Here are some essential tips to help you make the right decision:Cut: Look for an oval diamond with excellent or very good cut quality. A well-cut oval diamond will exhibit optimal brilliance and sparkle. Check also for symmetry and proportionality. The two ends of the diamond should be symmetrical, and the diamond’s shape should be well-balanced.
Color: Opt for a colorless to near-colorless diamond in the G to J range for a bright and sparkling appearance. Consider the setting metal color when choosing the diamond’s color. If you’re setting the diamond in yellow gold or rose gold, you can go for a slightly lower color grade without compromising the diamond’s beauty.
Clarity: Choose a diamond with a clarity grade of VS2 or higher for eye-clean diamonds without visible inclusions. Inclusions can be less noticeable in oval diamonds due to their shape, but it’s still essential to inspect the diamond closely for any imperfections.
Length to Width Ratio: The ideal length to width ratio for an oval cut diamond is typically between 1.35 to 1.50. This range offers a balanced and pleasing shape. However, the best ratio ultimately depends on personal preference. Some people prefer a more elongated oval, while others prefer a slightly rounder shape.
Certification: Always choose an oval diamond that is accompanied by grading report from a reputable grading laboratory such as GIA or AGS. This ensures that the diamond’s quality has been independently verified.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, choose an oval cut diamond that speaks to you and matches your personal style. Consider what characteristics are most important to you, whether it’s size, sparkle, or shape, and prioritize those features when selecting your diamond.
Design and Setting Options for Oval Diamond Rings
Oval diamond rings offer a wide range of design and setting options, allowing couples to create a unique and personalized engagement ring. Here are some popular setting options for oval diamond rings:
Solitaire: A classic solitaire setting showcases the oval diamond as the centerpiece, allowing its beauty to take center stage. This timeless design emphasizes the simplicity and elegance of the oval shape.
Halo: A halo setting features a ring of smaller diamonds surrounding the oval diamond, creating a dazzling and glamorous look. This setting adds extra sparkle and enhances the size and brilliance of the center stone.
Three-Stone: A three-stone setting incorporates two smaller diamonds on either side of the oval diamond, symbolizing the past, present, and future. This setting adds greater symbolism and creates a striking and balanced design.
Pavé: A pavé setting features small diamonds set closely together along the band, creating a continuous sparkle and adding extra brilliance to the oval diamond. This setting offers a delicate and romantic look.
When it comes to other design elements, like modern vs. vintage, Art Deco vs. Edwardian, or handcrafted aspects like milgraining, engraving, and filigree, La Jolla jewelry designer Carl Blackburn will go over the options in detail, and also look at any photos of rings you may have saved to your phone for inspiration.
To meet with Carl to discuss your custom engagement ring, give him a call today at 858-251-3006 to set up an appointment at his La Jolla jewelry store.
Famous Oval Diamond Engagement Rings
Oval diamond engagement rings have graced the fingers of many famous individuals, adding to their allure and popularity. Here are a few notable examples:
Hailey Bieber: Model Hailey Bieber’s engagement ring from singer Justin Bieber is a 6-10 carat oval diamond set in a diamond-encrusted band. Created by jewelry designer Jack Solow, the ring’s elegant design perfectly complements her style.
Blake Lively: Actress Blake Lively received a stunning oval diamond engagement ring from actor Ryan Reynolds. Designed by Lorraine Schwartz, the ring features a large oval-cut pink diamond set in a delicate rose gold pavé band.
Katie Holmes: Actress Katie Holmes received a 5 carat oval diamond engagement ring from actor Tom Cruise. The ring was set with a beautiful Edwardian cut center stone surrounded by smaller diamonds, creating a captivating halo effect.
Kirsten Dunst: Actress Kirsten Dunst was given an oval diamond engagement ring by her now-husband, actor Jesse Plemons. The ring features an oval-shaped diamond with a vintage-inspired setting and baguette diamond accents.
These famous oval diamond engagement rings have undoubtedly influenced current trends and inspired many California couples to choose this timeless and elegant shape for their own engagement rings.
Pricing and Budget Considerations for Oval Diamond Rings
When it comes to pricing oval diamond rings, several factors influence the cost. These include the carat weight, color, clarity, cut quality, and the overall market demand for oval diamonds.
For example, as with all diamonds, the larger the carat weight, the higher the price. However, due to their elongated shape, oval diamonds tend to appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight. This means you can achieve a significant visual impact without necessarily opting for the highest carat weight.
When it comes to color and clarity, keep in mind that colorless diamonds (D-F) and higher clarity grades (IF-VS) generally command higher prices. As to cut, opting for an excellent cut grade will enhance the diamond’s beauty but also will result in a higher price.
However, keep in mind that you still can buy a large carat oval diamond of high clarity, cut, and color, even if the price tag is beyond your budget. You can do so by purchasing a lab grown oval diamond that is physically identical to an earth mined diamond. These diamonds are just as strong, tough, and brilliant as a natural diamond. The only difference is that they cost up to 90 less.
Carl Blackburn at C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla will answer any questions you have about San Diego lab grown diamonds, and may be able to save you thousands of dollars on the purchase of a natural diamond if that is your preference (see our Diamond Locator service).
Designing an Oval Diamond Custom Engagement Ring
With a wide range of design and setting options, oval diamond rings allow couples to create a personalized and meaningful engagement ring. At first glance, creating a custom engagement ring may seem a bit complicated and more expensive than buying an oval diamond ring from a San Diego jeweler’s showcase.
But Carl Blackburn at C. Blackburn Jewelers makes the process easy, fun, and surprisingly affordable. Carl will gladly work within whatever budget you have set, so that you can present your fiancée with a truly one-of-a-kind engagement ring — one that’s as original and beautiful as your love story.
You’ll be involved in every step of the engagement ring design process: from the first CAD drawings and creation of a resin ring model to the selection of your oval diamond and the final finished engagement ring.
Get started today by giving Carl a call at 858-251-3006 or sending him an email below via the contact form. We’ll arrange a relaxed meeting at our boutique jewelry store in La Jolla By the Sea, and discuss all of the options available for creating your perfect engagement ring.
