Best clarity grades for oval cut rings
Oval diamond engagement ring are admired for their graceful shape, elongated sparkle, and timeless elegance. But beyond brilliance and size, one factor that deserves serious attention is clarity—especially because oval diamonds tend to show imperfections more readily than some other shapes. At KRK Jewels, we want you to feel confident that your engagement ring not only looks stunning but also holds long-term value. So what are the best clarity grades for oval cut diamonds? Let’s break it down.
What Is Clarity in a Diamond?
Clarity refers to the presence of internal inclusions and external blemishes in a diamond. These natural imperfections formed during the diamond’s creation and are graded by institutions like the GIA on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I1, I2, I3). The fewer the imperfections, the better the clarity—and often, the higher the price.
Why Clarity Matters in Oval Cuts
Unlike round brilliants, oval cut diamonds have a larger surface area (table) and elongated body. This makes them more prone to revealing inclusions, especially in the center or along the open ends. Additionally, oval cuts do not mask imperfections as well as cushion or radiant cuts might. The bottom line? Clarity matters more with ovals—but that doesn’t mean you need to pay for flawless.
Best Clarity Grades for Oval Cut Diamonds
1. VS1 to VS2 (Very Slightly Included)
For most buyers, VS1 or VS2 clarity is the sweet spot. These diamonds have minor inclusions that are invisible to the naked eye and only detectable under 10x magnification. With a VS clarity oval diamond, you’ll enjoy a clean, crisp appearance without paying a premium for higher grades.
✅ Best for: Engagement rings where the diamond is the focal point, and visual perfection is desired without overpaying.
2. SI1 (Slightly Included – Carefully Chosen)
If you’re shopping smart on a budget, SI1 can offer tremendous value—as long as you view the diamond before purchasing. Many SI1 oval diamonds are “eye-clean,” meaning their inclusions are not visible without magnification. However, be cautious: inclusions near the center or under the table can be noticeable due to the oval’s wide table facet.
✅ Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a larger carat weight without compromising overall visual quality.
3. VVS1 to VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included)
Diamonds in this range have inclusions that are extremely difficult to detect, even under magnification. While they offer exceptional purity, they may not offer better visible performance than VS1 or VS2 unless you’re buying for investment or sentimental perfection.
✅ Best for: Discerning buyers who want top-tier clarity and are willing to pay a premium for it.
4. Avoid: I1 and Lower
While some I1 clarity diamonds may be acceptable in other shapes, they are usually not ideal for ovals. The elongated shape and large table tend to highlight inclusions, especially if they lie in the center. These imperfections can interfere with brilliance and affect durability.
🚫 Not recommended for: Oval cuts intended as engagement rings or daily wear jewelry.
Clarity Tips from KRK Jewels
- Always see the diamond in person or request high-res images/videos before purchasing an SI1 or SI2 clarity oval.
- Ask about the location of inclusions. If they’re off to the side, they can often be hidden under prongs or bezels.
- Pair good clarity with great cut. Even a flawless diamond won’t sparkle if the cut is poor.
Final Thoughts
For oval cut diamonds, clarity is a key factor that impacts not just visual appeal, but also brilliance and longevity. While VVS diamonds are pristine, VS1 to VS2 offers the best blend of quality and value. And with a well-chosen SI1, you can often enjoy a larger stone without sacrificing eye-clean beauty.
At KRK Jewels, we hand-select oval diamonds that meet our high clarity standards—so you get brilliance, elegance, and peace of mind. Explore our curated collection of oval engagement rings and let us help you find a diamond that sparkles with clarity and confidence.
