Oval Diamond Buying Tips: Cut, Color, Clarity & Carat

[KristenMitchell]

Oval diamonds are a favorite among modern brides for their elegant shape, timeless appeal, and flattering appearance. Whether you’re searching for a classic solitaire or an elaborate oval engagement rings, understanding the 4 Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat—is essential when buying an oval diamond.

At krk jewels, we guide our clients through every detail of the diamond selection process. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for in each “C” when shopping for the perfect oval diamond engagement ring.

1. Cut: The Most Important Factor for Sparkle
Unlike round diamonds, oval diamonds do not have an official cut grade from gemological labs like GIA. However, the cut quality plays a huge role in how brilliant and symmetrical your diamond will appear.

What to Look For:

Length-to-width ratio: Aim for a ratio between 1.35 and 1.50 for a pleasing, elongated shape—not too wide, not too narrow.

Symmetry: Make sure both ends of the oval are even and the outline is balanced.

Bow-tie effect: This is a shadowy area across the center of the diamond, common in oval cuts. Look for a stone where the bow-tie is minimal or faint—visible in person or through videos.

KRK Tip: Always request a video or view the diamond in person to evaluate sparkle and bow-tie visibility.

2. Color: How White Do You Want Your Diamond?
Oval diamonds tend to show more color than round brilliants due to their larger surface area. This means color will be more noticeable, especially near the pointed ends.

Recommended Color Grades:

D–F (Colorless): Best for those who want a very bright white diamond.

G–H (Near Colorless): Offers excellent value with minimal warmth—most popular for ovals.

I–J: May show some faint tint, especially in larger carat sizes, but can still be beautiful in yellow or rose gold settings.

KRK Tip: If you’re setting your diamond in a yellow or rose gold band, you can comfortably choose a slightly lower color grade (H–J) without it appearing yellow.

3. Clarity: Eye-Clean is the Goal
Clarity refers to how free the diamond is from internal inclusions and external blemishes. Oval diamonds tend to hide flaws well, especially near the edges where prongs or halos can conceal them.

Recommended Clarity Grades:

VS1–VS2: Virtually eye-clean and excellent for value.

SI1: Often eye-clean depending on inclusion placement. Always inspect closely or ask for expert guidance.

VVS1–VVS2: Ultra-clear, but often unnecessary if inclusions are invisible to the naked eye.

KRK Tip: Choose an “eye-clean” diamond, not necessarily the highest clarity. You can get a larger stone for the same price without sacrificing appearance.

4. Carat: Maximize Size with Smart Choices
Oval diamonds have a naturally larger face-up appearance compared to round cuts of the same carat weight. This means you can go slightly lower in carat size and still enjoy a bold, impressive look.

Popular Carat Ranges:

0.70–0.90 carats: Budget-friendly, still offers good finger coverage.

1.00–1.50 carats: Classic size range for engagement rings.

2.00+ carats: Statement-worthy and luxurious.

KRK Tip: Slightly below benchmark weights (like 0.90ct instead of 1.00ct) can offer significant savings with minimal visual difference.

Bonus Tips from KRK Jewels
Buy certified diamonds: Always ask for a GIA or IGI certificate to ensure quality.

Choose the right setting: A thin band, hidden halo, or halo setting can make your diamond appear larger and more brilliant.

Don’t buy on paper alone: Always view videos or photos, especially for ovals, as proportions and sparkle vary widely.

Final Thoughts
An oval diamond is a stunning, timeless choice—but its beauty truly shines when you know how to shop smartly. By understanding the nuances of cut, color, clarity, and carat, you’ll be better equipped to choose a diamond that offers maximum brilliance and value.

At KRK Jewels, we offer expert guidance and curated selections to help you find the perfect oval diamond engagement ring—designed with love and crafted for life.