The slimming and radiant oval cut engagement ring showcases a fancy cut diamond belonging to the modified brilliant category. This classification describes shaped diamonds that are crafted from a round brilliant cut foundation, utilizing the same facet pattern and maximizing brilliance. The pear, heart and the delicate diamond of a marquise cut engagement ring are also modified brilliants.
Lazare Kaplan introduced the world to the modern oval cut diamond in the late 1950s, most likely inspired by his impressive family legacy. Kaplan’s cousin was Marcel Tolkowsky, the creator of the round brilliant cut diamond which forever changed the jewelry world in 1919. Both cousins proudly hailed from a lineage of master jewelers and diamantaires, dating back to the early 1800s. Even with the early fame and success of the family, their incredible craftsmanship did not stop there. As of 2009, some Tolkowskys are representative of the 7th generation of master jewelers.
The length-to-width ratio of an oval will span a range of approximately 1.33:1 to 1.66:1. A lesser ratio will present a fuller and rounder shape and a greater ratio will form a longer and more slender oval. The preference in proportions is completely subjective and as with any diamond, should be selected based on what is most visually pleasing. Marquise cuts, pears and ovals lend a slimming effect to the hand and visual elongation of the ring finger.
