How to Enhance the Brilliance of an Oval Diamond
Oval diamonds are loved for their elegant shape and dazzling sparkle, but not all ovals shine equally. Due to their elongated design, oval diamonds can sometimes display uneven light performance or a dark bow-tie effect across the center. If you're shopping for or already own an oval wedding rings, you might be wondering how to get the most brilliance out of this unique cut. The good news? Several expert techniques can help you maximize its shine and beauty.
At KRK Jewels we’re passionate about helping you choose and care for a diamond that sparkles from every angle. Below, we outline how to enhance the brilliance of an oval diamond through smart choices in cut, setting, and maintenance.
1. Choose an Ideal Cut
Cut is the most important factor in a diamond’s brilliance. While oval diamonds don’t receive official GIA cut grades like rounds, you can still evaluate cut quality through proportions and symmetry.
Look for:
A length-to-width ratio between 1.30 and 1.50 for a pleasing shape
Excellent or very good symmetry and polish
A well-proportioned depth (ideally 58–63%) and table (around 53–63%)
Avoid diamonds with a strong bow-tie shadow, as it can reduce overall brilliance.
2. Go for High-Quality Clarity and Color
While brilliance primarily depends on cut, clarity and color still play roles in how light reflects through the stone.
Choose VS2 or higher for clarity to avoid inclusions that interfere with sparkle
Aim for G color or better for a bright, icy appearance
Ensure the diamond is eye-clean and free from cloudy spots
The cleaner and whiter the diamond, the more light it can reflect and refract beautifully.
3. Select a Reflective Setting
The setting you choose can significantly impact how much light reaches your oval diamond.
For maximum brilliance:
Prong settings expose more of the diamond, allowing more light to enter
Hidden halos or pavé bands can enhance sparkle without overwhelming the center stone
A white gold or platinum band reflects more light than yellow gold, boosting brilliance
Avoid heavy bezel settings if sparkle is your top priority, as they can block light from entering the sides of the diamond.