Your Guide To Finding The Perfect Oval Diamond Ring Size
To the naked eye, all diamonds might sparkle the same, but when it comes to size, it’s easier to spot the difference. Finding the perfect gem to wear for a lifetime goes beyond sparkle or even cut, size plays an important role in the look and feel of the engagement ring you choose.
Understanding diamond sizes allows you to make a more informed decision not just based on big or small but things like cut, dimensions, or carat weight. A smaller diamond may appear bigger in certain cuts like a classic round or oval cut, while some cuts, like emerald or cushion, might require a higher carat weight to pull off the same visual impact.
In this guide, we’re breaking down oval-cut diamonds and how their appearance changes depending on size, setting design, and even the size of your hands.
When It Comes To Diamonds - Size Matters
To understand oval diamond sizes, you first have to understand how diamonds are measured no matter the cut. Diamond sizes are measured using a combination of weight, dimensions, and proportions to determine their overall appearance and value. You’re most likely familiar with carats, which is the primary unit of measurement for diamonds, with one carat equaling 200 milligrams. However, carat weight alone does not fully capture the size or visual impact of a diamond.
Diamonds are also measured in terms of their dimensions, including length, width, and depth, which is crucial in determining the proportions and shape. You also have to take the cut grade into consideration when assessing the size. A quality cut diamond will maximize its beauty, helping it appear larger or more impressive compared to a diamond of lesser cut quality.
And lastly, what angle are you looking at the diamond? Diamond sizes are generally assessed based on the face-up appearance. This means diamond sizes can look different when viewed from the top.
Now that you’ve got a general idea of how diamonds are measured, let’s talk about the shape you’re here to learn more about.
Oval Diamond Rings 101
Over the years, oval cut diamonds have remained a popular choice for engagement rings. That comes as no surprise when you factor in its beauty and ability to complement a variety of settings and styles. That beauty is primarily due to the stunning elongated shape of the oval cut diamond that can create an illusion of length, which can be very flattering for many hand sizes.
Speaking of size, it’s important to note that appearance can vary significantly based on the dimensions and setting you choose for this cut. There are two main factors that come into play when it comes to this:
Length to Width Ratio
The length-to-width ratio will determine the overall shape of the oval diamond. The higher the ratios, the more elongated the shape of the oval, and the lower the ratios, the more the ring will take on a rounder appearance.
Carat Weight
As the carat weight increases, so does the size of the oval diamond. With that in mind, it’s important to consider that carat weight alone does not determine the appearance of the diamond.
The length-to-width ratios and carat weight are just the beginning when you start designing your ring and playing with settings, you’ll see how much more oval diamond sizes can change. For example, halos are known for enhancing diamond sizes, while solitaire settings depending on the size you choose, can vary in appearance.
What To Consider When Choosing An Oval Diamond Ring Size
As you explore oval diamond sizes, you can narrow down your decision by considering your style preferences, the setting, and whether it fits within your budget.
Personal Style
Your style preferences play a pivotal role in determining your ideal size. Do you like to go bold, or is your style more subtle? Those are things you’ll have to think about as you test out different size options.
Ring Setting
As mentioned before, the setting impacts the look of your ring. Are you looking for a three stone ring, where two additional diamonds support the center stone? Do you want a wide pave band or cathedral bezel? Depending on the ring setting you choose, the size of your ring can visually change.
Budget
There’s no surprise that the bigger you want your stone, the bigger your budget may have to be. That doesn’t mean that a smaller ring couldn’t embody everything you want to see in a diamond ring, but your budget will determine the options you have available to you.
The Perfect Size Is Possible
There are complexities when it comes to oval diamond ring sizes, but finding the perfect one for you isn’t impossible. Once you have an understanding of the nuances that impact size, you can make a more informed decision about what you truly want. That’s why it’s just as important to explore your options.
Each diamond possesses its own unique characteristics and variations in size, shape, and proportions, so the more you test them out, the closer you are to finding the perfect balance. Exploring your options can look like making an in-person appointment with your preferred jeweler to try on different oval diamond carat sizes or testing them out from the comfort of your home. At Plum Diamonds, we’re here to make finding the perfect oval diamond ring easy.
We’ve created a gorgeous collection of oval cut engagement rings that come in a variety of styles and metal types for you to explore, and if you don’t see the ring you desire on our website, you have the option of customizing your ring in as little as four weeks.