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Oval Loose Diamonds
Oval cut loose diamonds were developed by the great jeweler Lazare Kaplan, who introduced the design in the 1960's. It is a fairly new loose diamond shape, and was touted as a modern and edgier alternative to the classic round loose diamonds cut.
The oval loose diamond shares many of the round brilliant cut's desirable characteristics: brightness, and an elegant and feminine curve. However, the round brilliant being so common it accounts for almost 80% of loose diamonds sales all over the world some people may crave for a shape that is more unique and one of a kind. Kaplan believed that oval loose diamonds were the answer.
An oval loose diamond has 56 facets, though the measurements are not as precise as those set for the round brilliant loose diamond.
Choose the Best Oval Loose Diamonds
While the exact proportions of an oval loose diamond may sometimes be a matter of preference, experts say that the perfect ratio should at least approximate 1.5:1. In fact, if it exceeds that ratio, the loose diamond may look a little deformed. Oval loose diamonds should also have elliptical shape when viewed from the top.
A skilled craftsman must also cut the diamond in such a way as to maximize its brilliance. Done well, it can be almost as bright as a round brilliant loose diamond. Here, your eye is the best judge. Does it look dull, almost glass-like? Avoid the halogen lights in retail jewelry stores, which will force an artificial brightness.
As for depth, many experts recommend using a stone with a depth that is at least in its lower 60s. This will help the light enter the loose diamond at a particular angle, and bounce back in such a way to create a beautiful and eye catching sparkle. To get even more shine, look for a table that measures at least in the upper 50s. Inspect the crown, as well, to check if it falls in the upper percentage, such that it can absorb the light for a "lively look". The oval shape does tend to reveal inclusions and impurities, though, so it's necessary to choose a loose diamond with a very high clarity grade.
Another thing to watch out for is the bow-tie effect. This is when the diamond seems to have a dark area, caused in part by improperly cut angles.
Oval Loose Diamonds Design Considerations
The oval cut seems to work best with colorless loose diamonds, because of its ability to reflect such an extraordinary amount of light. But it can be used with colored loose diamonds, especially for very modern or dramatic designs. Another option is frame an oval loose diamond with smaller colored stones or semi precious stones.
Oval shaped loose diamonds can also be very beautiful as cocktail rings: large and oversized rings that have become very fashionable in the last few years. They are also used in brooches, necklaces, and sometimes earrings (sometimes combined with pear diamonds for a dramatic chandelier design).
Oval shaped loose diamonds can make very beautiful engagement rings for women with thick and short fingers, since they tend to create a flattering illusion of length.
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