Oval Cut (Modified Brilliant Cut)
The oval-shaped cut was created as a combination of a Cushion cut and a Round by Lazare Kaplan in the 1960s, in order to achieve greater brilliance than the Cushion cut and a more slender look than the Round cut. This diamond will look a little smaller in size compared to a Cushion cut, but may elongate your fiancées finger. As with other brilliants, proportions are more important in this cut. Shallow ovals can make the cut look too large. Many jewelers make the mistake of attempting to select a diamond that doesn’t display this effect. This shape will typically have a very deep pavilion which gives the diamond a slightly darker appearance within the table. A shadow in the form of a bow-tie is actually considered part of the beauty of this unique shape. The lack of symmetry can elongate the sparkle of the cut, making it appear much larger than it really is. Color and clarity can be disguised as well as a Round Brilliant with a well-proportioned cut.
A well-proportioned cut with Very Good Symmetry and Good Polish is recommended. A color grade of J and clarity grade of SI2 may be discernable by the naked eye.
Diamond cutters and gemologists agree on a depth percentage between 58-65.4% as it delivers the greatest balance of fire and brilliance while exhibiting a small bow-tie effect. Depths under 58% usually produce larger bow-ties due to reduced pavilion angles while depths over 65.4% generally contain smaller bow-ties but appear darker and smaller overall.
Oval (Length-to-Width Ratio of 1.33-1.66:1)
Table               51-64%