Today we want to go over oval diamond ratios and why they are so important. When it comes to fancy shape diamonds the length to width ratio is crucial because it tells you what shape oval you have. When we say shape, we mean the overall outlined appearance of the stone.
To make it easy we have created a video showing oval diamond ratios side by side!
What is a ratio?
The ratio is a comparison of the length and the width on a fancy shape diamond. To achieve the ratio, you divide the millimeter length by the width. The most popular range for oval diamond ratios is from 1.3 to 1.5. For this comparison, we specifically picked out diamonds in similar carat sizes and quality ranges so that we can compare evenly across the board.
Comparing 3 Ovals
Let’s take a look at the 3 oval diamonds side by side in the most popular ratios.
To start we have a 1.5 carat F VS1. The measurements are 9.08 by 6.88 millimeters. If we divide the numbers we get a 1.3 ratio. When you look at this diamond you can tell it has a very full and rounded appearance to it. This is going to be considered a wider oval.
Compare that to the next diamond which is a 1.5 carat D SI1 that has a 1.5 ratio. This is a very elongated oval with a very slim appearance.
These two diamonds are on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of shape which you can see here
For an in between option we have a 1.4 carat F SI1. The measurments give us a 1.39 ratio which is easily considered to be 1.4. This is one of the more popular ratios because it is right in between; it is not too rounded and not too elongated. We find this range of 1.35-1.45 to be the most common.
Where do you find the ratio of the diamond?
You get this by looking at the length and width measurements of the diamond.
Looking at this GIA cert here you can see both numbers shown on the side description and on the plot itself
Moissanite Ratio
The Charles & Colvard oval ratios are in the range 1.3. They come in sizes such as 8x6mm, 9x7mm, and 10x8mm. They have a distinctly rounded and shorter shape to them. Some love this look and others prefer a more elongated oval shape. You can go for a Harro which offers the more elongated variation if the wider Charles & Colvard shape is not your favorite.
So which ratio is best? There is no right answer to this question and it really depends on what you like! If you are looking for more finger coverage you can opt for a higher ratio that will take up more space on the finger. If you are not sure, then something right in between will be your best bet!