Opinions on JA Oval

[TreeScientist]

No one on this forum receives “compensation/credit” for their recommendations. This is a jewelry forum where you can get advice from prosumers and professionals alike, but unless you see “trade” next to the user name, then the person posting is not affiliated in any way with a retailer. The performance of the Opulence Oval is not a simple “claim” there is ASET and other images/videos to prove its performance.

I was about to post something similar. It's not an unsubstantiated claim. The ASET images and IRL videos posted by August Vintage speak for themselves. Now, if someone was charging a premium for a supposed "superior" cut without these images/videos, then I would say "prove it." But they have proven it. They have definitely proven it.

And, as @SimoneDi said, no-one on here is affiliated in any way with the industry except for those with "Trade" next to their names. And most of us recommend stones from a wide range of vendors depending on the current stock of said vendors and the desires of the poster. In this case, we're all gushing over the Opulence because it is, in fact, superior to any other oval currently on the market in terms of performance. Show me any other oval that has an ASET even half as good as the opulence and then we can talk.

 

[JDDN]

This is all useful information, thank you very much. I have to ask though: for those recommending the Opulent Oval, have you seen it in person? And also, are you affiliated in anyway with that Company — or otherwise receiving any compensation/credit? I understand that it is possible that someone "cracked the code" on cutting the oval better than anyone else. But I'm generally skeptical of any such claims. That is especially so when that vendor is selling statistically undesirable diamonds (i.e. super deep AGS H SI1 stones), and charging nearly twice their retail price.

If you've been around PS long enough you will understand that certain people like certain vendors for various reasons. PS is a giant WF fan club, lol. Many PSers love the OO because of the light performance and the ideal cut since many here are absolute cut nuts. Do some digging on Jonathan Weingarten and you will find out that his knowledge of cut goes deep into a technical rabbit hole and that is true of many diamond shapes not just the oval. It is not surprising that he has moved forward with the ideal oval. The reason why you aren't seeing lots of these ideal cut ovals is because most cutters aren't interested in cutting ideal ovals because they will sacrifice size for optics. Larger ovals with not so great light performance will sell because the vast majority of diamond buyers/consumers are not educated or don't really care about ideal optics. Remember, the cost of a piece of rough will yield either a poor performing 2 carat oval or an ideal cut 1.7 carat oval and right now the poor performing 2 carat is more 'cost effective' for cutters. This is why for example the August Vintage Cushion is more expensive than a poor performing 'vintage' style cushion. Jonathan has his AVC's cut with strict cut parameters that stay true to the antique period cushions and he also has them cut for ideal optics. They have very high crowns and if you were to cut an antique style cushion with a flat crown, well you would get a larger carat weight diamond out of the same size rough.

The nice thing is that the consumer has options. If the optics and performance of a diamond is of utmost importance to you, you can pay for one that has those things. If size is of utmost importance to you, you can pay for that. The former being more expensive than the latter with say carat weight being the same. With Jaime, she is trying to balance performance with size within her budget and most try to do that. Absolutely fine and the hunt is particularly fun for a lot of us. Probably not so much Jaime at this point though .

I'm not sure what you mean by the "vendor is selling statistically undesirable diamonds ie, super deep AGS H SI1 stones and charging nearly twice their retail price." If you'd like to elaborate I'm sure I could speak to that too. And no....I don't get paid anything by the company and I don't get any perks. I'm just another cut nut .

 

[rockysalamander]

I agree with PPs relative to OO. There also seems to be more of a dearth of good ovals on the market we PS members can access for the last 6 weeks or so. So, it's been hard to find lots of options for posters. But, I'm hopeful that will change.

 

[prbaglady]

This is all useful information, thank you very much. I have to ask though: for those recommending the Opulent Oval, have you seen it in person? And also, are you affiliated in anyway with that Company — or otherwise receiving any compensation/credit? I understand that it is possible that someone "cracked the code" on cutting the oval better than anyone else. But I'm generally skeptical of any such claims. That is especially so when that vendor is selling statistically undesirable diamonds (i.e. super deep AGS H SI1 stones), and charging nearly twice their retail price.

I just want to be super clear that I was recommending the Opulence Oval because I actually saw one in person and was VERY impressed with the diamond. I am not an expert and just a consumer, but to my eye, it had a really unique, pleasing facet structure and just sparkled way more than any other oval I had seen. I received no compensation whatsoever and have no commercial relationship with the vendor (outside of buying a stone from him that turned out NOT to be an oval). When responding to this thread, I gave my honest appraisal of the oval that I looked at and highlighted what I consider to be the main negative of these stones, which is the fact that they face up small. I concluded that, although I would have to go up in carat weight to be happy, I would still prefer the opulence. Another negative is the price premium (especially when you realize that size-wise, a 2.4 faces up like a 2) BUT I would feel comfortable going down to an I color with these to save some $$ and I would probably not buy a generic oval lower than an H color. I don't think that the opulence is the be all and end all of all ovals-- it involves a compromise just like any other stone-- no stone is perfect. It just depends on what your priorities are as a consumer.

@prbaglady thank you so much! this is really helpful - i would drop it down to a 2.2 but it scares me to go that low in color -- it's the only oval they seem to have "in house" - the others they would have to order in for me before doing any ASET image work.

I agree that this stone doesn't have the specs that you want (the tint on the stone is somewhat noticeable), but it is a good example of a well cut oval and has a good spread for its carat weight. I actually considered this diamond back when I was looking at ovals and discussed with a WF rep. They said that they don't normally include ovals as part of their in-house collection and that ovals were not their specialty, but when they came across this one, they thought it was spectacular enough for them to make an exception.

 

[Starfacet]

This is all useful information, thank you very much. I have to ask though: for those recommending the Opulent Oval, have you seen it in person? And also, are you affiliated in anyway with that Company — or otherwise receiving any compensation/credit? I understand that it is possible that someone "cracked the code" on cutting the oval better than anyone else. But I'm generally skeptical of any such claims. That is especially so when that vendor is selling statistically undesirable diamonds (i.e. super deep AGS H SI1 stones), and charging nearly twice their retail price.

I own one. I paid for it with my own money. When I spend my hard-earned money on something, I want to get the best quality I can. I received no compensation/credit/deal for purchasing it or for recommending it to others. As @SimoneDi, said the ASET and other images prove its performance.

 

[three staplers]

Thanks everyone. I assumed that that was the case, but I wanted to be sure because the jeweler I visited last weekend balked at that site. My only remaining concern is that I don't actually see any of the ASETs on the August Vintage website? In other words, beyond the "sample document," I don't see any diamond-specific ASETS. Am I missing something?

Now I just need to figure out somehow if my girlfriend would prefer a 1.7 normal oval or a 1.5 opulent one that looks like 1.3. I have no idea how to figure that out

 

[Rockdiamond]

The word "performance" is simply out of place in this discussion without far more detail on what performance we're talking about. Does physical size enter into the calculation of performance?
As opposed to "proving" something, the ASET, and photos show what a stone looks like ( in the ASET, or the camera.
To make a claim that there's some sort of statistical, or scientific advantage of one diamonds design / cut over another is to ignore why most people buy diamonds.
I've yet to come across a buyer- no matter how uninformed- that's not interested in the optics of what they're about to spend thousands of dollars on.
If someone loves a given design. seller, or stone, more power to them- yell it from the rooftops.
But I honestly feel it's a disservice to non regular readers- people coming for honest advice- to conflate "performance" with taste and beauty. There simply is no "best".
Performance=perception, when it comes to diamonds. So any claims about performance relative to other designs are just that- claims.

 

[Starfacet]

But I honestly feel it's a disservice to non regular readers- people coming for honest advice- to conflate "performance" with taste and beauty. There simply is no "best".
Performance=perception, when it comes to diamonds. So any claims about performance relative to other designs are just that- claims.

I don't think anyone is conflating performance with taste. We are responding to jaimem's own comments about what she's seeing in oval cut diamonds that she doesn't like. She is trying to do what most people do - balance all of her desires, which includes nice optics.

 

[Rockdiamond]

Hi Starfacet!
The term or concept of "proven performance" was used.
That's what I'm referring to.
There's no proof whatsoever that any given person ( including those concerned with optics), will pick one design over another.

 

[SparklenHue123]

Thanks everyone. I assumed that that was the case, but I wanted to be sure because the jeweler I visited last weekend balked at that site. My only remaining concern is that I don't actually see any of the ASETs on the August Vintage website? In other words, beyond the "sample document," I don't see any diamond-specific ASETS. Am I missing something?

Now I just need to figure out somehow if my girlfriend would prefer a 1.7 normal oval or a 1.5 opulent one that looks like 1.3. I have no idea how to figure that out

@three staplers i think you will need to get some more info from your GF. Does she know you are searching?? would she want to be involved?

In my situation - my BF knows how crazy I am about diamonds so he said "let me know when you have your choices narrowed down" "let me know when you need me to travel to see stones/be available for phone calls" and "let me know when you have the setting picked out" - he is really leaving it up to me but all couples are different and my situation is especially unique bc of my strive to get *my* perfect ring.

personally - i care about size, I also care about performance, color and clarity. i am not a diamond expert - had no idea about PS until a few weeks ago but have learned so much. I don't necessarily need the BEST stone in the world but I want *my* perfect stone - whether it's perfect in everyone's else's eyes doesn't matter (lol but don't get me wrong - i don't want to end up with a crappy one!). i have been looking at stones since march 2015 and started seriously looking february 2017 - and im so happy i have taken my time because the ones i saw originally were some real duds. If your GF likes traditional ovals - i wouldn't rule those out ! I am not sure if i will personally end up with an OO because i will lose on the spread but that is just my personal preference. i would consider all your options and also what you think she would like best. i'm sure that rhino will give you asets if you ask him - he seems to have most available on his site and is very friendly, knowledgeable and responsive !

if i can help at all with a female perspective let me know ! and i am most definitely NOT in the diamond biz lol although at this point i might consider a career change

 

[Starfacet]

In my situation - my BF knows how crazy I am about diamonds so he said "let me know when you have your choices narrowed down" "let me know when you need me to travel to see stones/be available for phone calls" and "let me know when you have the setting picked out" - he is really leaving it up to me but all couples are different and my situation is especially unique bc of my strive to get *my* perfect ring.

He is so nice!!! @jaimem123, you are on the verge of finding your perfect stone. I can feel it!!!

 

[SparklenHue123]

He is so nice!!!

lol thank you! he is a sweet heart - let's hope he still wants to get engaged after my craziness

 

[Starfacet]

lol thank you! he is a sweet heart - let's hope he still wants to get engaged after my craziness

I would think he would be glad he is marrying someone who takes so much care with a large purchase! Your tenacity says something about you!

 

[three staplers]

@three staplers i think you will need to get some more info from your GF. Does she know you are searching?? would she want to be involved?

In my situation - my BF knows how crazy I am about diamonds so he said "let me know when you have your choices narrowed down" "let me know when you need me to travel to see stones/be available for phone calls" and "let me know when you have the setting picked out" - he is really leaving it up to me but all couples are different and my situation is especially unique bc of my strive to get *my* perfect ring.

personally - i care about size, I also care about performance, color and clarity. i am not a diamond expert - had no idea about PS until a few weeks ago but have learned so much. I don't necessarily need the BEST stone in the world but I want *my* perfect stone - whether it's perfect in everyone's else's eyes doesn't matter (lol but don't get me wrong - i don't want to end up with a crappy one!). i have been looking at stones since march 2015 and started seriously looking february 2017 - and im so happy i have taken my time because the ones i saw originally were some real duds. If your GF likes traditional ovals - i wouldn't rule those out ! I am not sure if i will personally end up with an OO because i will lose on the spread but that is just my personal preference. i would consider all your options and also what you think she would like best. i'm sure that rhino will give you asets if you ask him - he seems to have most available on his site and is very friendly, knowledgeable and responsive !

if i can help at all with a female perspective let me know ! and i am most definitely NOT in the diamond biz lol although at this point i might consider a career change

Alright, it seems to me like you have basically the same taste that my girlfriend does. Except I can't afford a 2+ct oval, so the size dropoff is even more pronounced for me. Since she liked the traditional ovals we looked at, and I was already squeamish about shelling out for the ~1.7ct diamond she had her eyes on -- I think it doesn't make sense for me to do the opulent oval even though they do seem so cool. if you do happen to come across an oval that you like except that it's too small (i.e. because it's like 1.6-1.8ct), would you pleeeease let me know?

Thank you guys very much!

With respect to the search -- she seems far more interested in finding the perfect setting. I might even try to propose with a stone on a super basic setting and then work with her to find the perfect one. I want to maintain some surprise though...

 

[Rhino]

Dave you crack me up. Just to address your comments.

The word "performance" is simply out of place in this discussion without far more detail on what performance we're talking about. Does physical size enter into the calculation of performance?

Absolutely not. David ... a half carat diamond can be more beautiful than a 2ct diamond all because of optics and light performance. Size has nothing to do with the dynamics that contribute to diamond beauty.

As opposed to "proving" something, the ASET, and photos show what a stone looks like ( in the ASET, or the camera.

No. Why do you think optical scientists like Jose Sasian stand behind these tools David as well as the integral team at AGS Laboratories?!? You think there's a big conspiracy theory?

To make a claim that there's some sort of statistical, or scientific advantage of one diamonds design / cut over another is to ignore why most people buy diamonds.

David seriously ... you need to spend more time listening to our friend Karl. I can't speak for all consumers but when people go look at diamonds with their eyes 99 out of 100 will always pick the the diamond with the ideal optics when making an informed choice. I've done this for 35 years (two of those decades while being online). How do you think Marcel Tolkowsky came up with his Ideal Cut back in 1919 which has further been proved by the technologies we enjoy today?!?!? He showed regular every day people diamonds side by side of various proportion combinations. Seriously David, think it through.

I've yet to come across a buyer- no matter how uninformed- that's not interested in the optics of what they're about to spend thousands of dollars on.

After 35 years in a retail store specializing in super ideal cuts I can testify to the exact opposite.

If someone loves a given design. seller, or stone, more power to them- yell it from the rooftops.
But I honestly feel it's a disservice to non regular readers- people coming for honest advice- to conflate "performance" with taste and beauty. There simply is no "best".
Performance=perception, when it comes to diamonds. So any claims about performance relative to other designs are just that- claims.

Then you are willfully ignoring the eye witness testimony of some of the very people in this thread David. It is a phenomena that can not only be witnessed with the eyes but also via video, same lighting side by side. All the evidence is stacked against you David.

Hi Starfacet!
The term or concept of "proven performance" was used.
That's what I'm referring to.
There's no proof whatsoever that any given person ( including those concerned with optics), will pick one design over another.

Otherwise ... good chatting my friend and hope this finds you well. One of these days I'll pop in and we'll do some coffee.

Peace,
Rhino

 

[SparklenHue123]

I would think he would be glad he is marrying someone who takes so much care with a large purchase! Your tenacity says something about you!

Aww shucks - thank you so much <3 so sweet of you to say and makes me feel a little bit better lol!

@three staplers most happy to share my experience with you - although like i said i am not the expert but if you'd like a female perspective you're most welcome to give me a shout jmfitnesstest at gmail.com!

 

[Starfacet]

Also, correct me if I'm wrong @Rhino, but isn't the Oplulence technically a "traditional" oval?

 

[Rockdiamond]

Dave you crack me up. Just to address your comments.



Absolutely not. David ... a half carat diamond can be more beautiful than a 2ct diamond all because of optics and light performance. Size has nothing to do with the dynamics that contribute to diamond beauty.
So who determines which is more beautiful?
I'm by no means saying that badly cut diamonds don't exist, of course they do. If we're discussing ovals in particular, most are not well cut. But there's a range of well cut oval diamonds. Inside that range, there's a variety of different optical designs. Is one "better" than another? No. Will some observers choose one, while others select a different one. Yes.
If we're discussing beauty, there's really no such thing as "better" in a provable, scientific sense.



No. Why do you think optical scientists like Jose Sasian stand behind these tools David as well as the integral team at AGS Laboratories?!? You think there's a big conspiracy theory?
That is by no means a conspiracy- it's a brand. AGSL promotes their brand. AGSL does indeed have a singular manner of looking at this- and there's other experts whoi feel differently. That does not make either of them wrong- but it shows that not all "cut mavens" will agree which is best.
In terms of ASET as a tool- it's a tool. The tool is based on science. We agree on that part. But interpreting the images is by no means an established science.



David seriously ... you need to spend more time listening to our friend Karl. I can't speak for all consumers but when people go look at diamonds with their eyes 99 out of 100 will always pick the the diamond with the ideal optics when making an informed choice. I've done this for 35 years (two of those decades while being online). How do you think Marcel Tolkowsky came up with his Ideal Cut back in 1919 which has further been proved by the technologies we enjoy today?!?!? He showed regular every day people diamonds side by side of various proportion combinations. Seriously David, think it through.
To quote Ronnie, "There you go again" What are "ideal optics" and who determines the answer?
My friend, I've got 10 years on you in the biz overall- and just as long online. Do you really believe that your sales pitch has nothing to do with the way folks react when you show them stones? Seriously Jon- think it through.

I wrote "I've yet to come across a buyer- no matter how uninformed- that's not interested in the optics of what they're about to spend thousands of dollars on."

After 35 years in a retail store specializing in super ideal cuts I can testify to the exact opposite.
Now you have me confused Jon- I say that every buyer is interested in optics, you find the exact opposite???



Then you are willfully ignoring the eye witness testimony of some of the very people in this thread David. It is a phenomena that can not only be witnessed with the eyes but also via video, same lighting side by side. All the evidence is stacked against you David.

So we have one ( or more) people who love the cut after seeing it, or owning it. I've never seen it in person, I'm sure it's lovely.
But using a few people's preferences as "evidence" is beyond ridiculous.





Otherwise ... good chatting my friend and hope this finds you well. One of these days I'll pop in and we'll do some coffee.

Peace,
Rhino

Yes, always good chatting Amigo

 

[JDDN]

The word "performance" is simply out of place in this discussion without far more detail on what performance we're talking about. Does physical size enter into the calculation of performance?
As opposed to "proving" something, the ASET, and photos show what a stone looks like ( in the ASET, or the camera.
To make a claim that there's some sort of statistical, or scientific advantage of one diamonds design / cut over another is to ignore why most people buy diamonds.
I've yet to come across a buyer- no matter how uninformed- that's not interested in the optics of what they're about to spend thousands of dollars on.
If someone loves a given design. seller, or stone, more power to them- yell it from the rooftops.
But I honestly feel it's a disservice to non regular readers- people coming for honest advice- to conflate "performance" with taste and beauty. There simply is no "best".
Performance=perception, when it comes to diamonds. So any claims about performance relative to other designs are just that- claims.

The ASET shows how the light is being returned which in turn shows us in one measure how the diamond "performs" in terms of the optics. No the physical size does not have anything to do with performance.

I think you are equating how much light is being returned/light performance to what a person's subjective opinion of a diamond is. I also think maybe you are equating 'performance' with how a person thinks it looks. You could have an ideal cut 2 carat RB next to a GIA Fair cut 2 carat diamond. Is there a "best" in this scenario? I don't think there is a "best" and nobody is saying "X" brand diamond is the "best", but there sure is a diamond that is more sparkly, bright and lively. Call it whatever you want. Some people may choose the Fair cut over the Ideal cut, but I wager most won't. The thing is whatever the person chooses is great, peachy keen, just fine. The person who chooses the Fair cut doesn't have bad taste and isn't in some way deficient in choosing the Good cut diamond.

The person who determines which is more beautiful is the person who is wearing the diamond! When PSers help people who come here looking for advice on which diamond to choose, we are helping virtually and are relying on numbers, video, and ASET images. Ideally in the perfect world the consumer could order 5-6 diamonds and view them in person in different lighting and choose that way. But most aren't. Sure we may recommend the RB closest to a Tolkowsky ideal cut, but the consumer may actually like the steep deep a little more. But based on what we have to work with and what a lot of us have seen and experienced personally, we recommend the diamonds the majority here have appreciated the most. It's not a perfect system but it seems to be working out alright.

I'm not understanding your statement of "some sort of statistical or scientific advantage of one diamonds design/cut over another is to ignore why most people buy diamonds." I thought the reason most people buy diamonds is because they love the sparkle, the light play and either/and the luxury or emotional significance of the diamond.

 

[JDDN]

Three Staplers....I think involving your intended with the choosing/design of the setting is a fabulous idea. Someone once suggested after the proposal with the diamond in a temp setting, to make a romantic date out of looking at settings and trying them on. The options are endless in that regard!

 

[rockysalamander]

Just found these. These are all slightly to a bit more over budget, but I wanted to find some options that looked great. If you like these please put on hold. Like right now. Then ask for ASET. I don't expect my first two to ASET perfectly, but hopefully better than the one that began this thread.

Hoping some fancy lovers chime in on the traditional ovals and the covals (my term ).

These are not perfect (especially at the E/W in the table), but it otherwise exceed your brief and looks great by video.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.04-carat-d-color-vs2-clarity-sku-4281771 {9.78*7.30*4.63; It also has clouds and additional clouds, so that will need to be reviewed, but at VS2...rarely an issue.}
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.01-carat-f-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-4375524 {9.48*7.21*4.54}

I was super excited about that until this one. Hubba Hubba. One tiny cloud on a VS1...forget about it!
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.03-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-3458756 (9.81*7.42*4.60}

This should really be called a coval. This is stunning! I love this stone. I love the cushiony faceting with the oval outline. If this baby has a nice ASET, I'd be in love.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.02-carat-d-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-2653627 {10.36*6.89*3.98}

Cousin to the coval above.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.01-carat-e-color-vs2-clarity-sku-326569 {9.86*6.63*4.33}

@tyty333 @valeria101 @diamondseeker2006 @Niel @jaimem123

 

[Rockdiamond]

JDDN, You raise excellent points and considerations. We now have a Dibox- so I can take consistent ASET pics- and I've been working with Karl, and real live fancy shape diamonds to analyze what the diamonds are telling us, as compared to what the ASET is telling us.
One thing to be clear- ASET evaluation for round brilliant diamonds is a completely different discussion than for Fancy Shapes. Using ASET/IS, it's possible to document small, yet important differences that give a "Super Ideal" superior Light Performance, as compared to a run of the mill EX cut grade.
We all agree that there's a lot of badly cut fancy shapes out there- the truly well cut examples of Pear Shape, Marquise, and Oval are indeed rare. We agree that when comparing a truly well cut diamond to a poorly cut diamond, 99% will choose the better cut. But there's quite a range of well cut diamonds.
When we are considering how to assess the light performance of a diamond, rounds and fancy shapes again, pose completely different considerations.
An RBC is, after all, always round. Ovals come in a limitless variation of LxW as well as overall profile. Then we have the general differences between Oval Modified Brilliant versus Oval Brilliant.
We can agree that by using ASET, a really well cut OB will return more light than a really well cut OMB. But that still might not make it perform better.
You are correct that in the case of Ovals ( and Radiant Cuts and Cushions) I can't separate performance from preference.
If a well-informed person is comparing two diamonds and has a clear visual preference than that's the diamond that performs best for that individual. Then again, to be honest- as a seller- my goal is to fulfill the preference of the person we're assisting. That certainly colors the way I view the term "performance" when it comes to a diamond.
In my research with Karl, there have already been cases of really great looking stones that are definitely well cut- yet that did not ASET well. On the other hand, it is an excellent tool for identifying a certain type of cutting style- even in Fancy Shapes.
IOW- although we've seen false negatives, we have not seen a false positive.

Sorry if I didn't answer all your points- but I really appreciate the discussion

 

[SparklenHue123]

Just found these. These are all slightly to a bit more over budget, but I wanted to find some options that looked great. If you like these please put on hold. Like right now. Then ask for ASET. I don't expect my first two to ASET perfectly, but hopefully better than the one that began this thread.

Hoping some fancy lovers chime in on the traditional ovals and the covals (my term ).

These are not perfect (especially at the E/W in the table), but it otherwise exceed your brief and looks great by video.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.04-carat-d-color-vs2-clarity-sku-4281771 {9.78*7.30*4.63; It also has clouds and additional clouds, so that will need to be reviewed, but at VS2...rarely an issue.}
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.01-carat-f-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-4375524 {9.48*7.21*4.54}

I was super excited about that until this one. Hubba Hubba. One tiny cloud on a VS1...forget about it!
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.03-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-3458756 (9.81*7.42*4.60}



This should really be called a coval. This is stunning! I love this stone. I love the cushiony faceting with the oval outline. If this baby has a nice ASET, I'd be in love.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.02-carat-d-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-2653627 {10.36*6.89*3.98}

Cousin to the coval above.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.01-carat-e-color-vs2-clarity-sku-326569 {9.86*6.63*4.33}

@tyty333 @valeria101 @diamondseeker2006 @Niel @jaimem123

Thank you so much!!! I am looking into these now. We did up the budget for the stone to $25.5 so it does give us a little more cushion for a bigger stone (2.3-2.5ish) - but TBH i wasn't even finding anything that great on JA in that carat size. The cushiony oval is SO unique - I do wonder about the fact though that the GIA was done back in 2008 - it's been on the market for 10 years?

Thank you for finding these "gems" for me requesting asets now.

 

[Karl_K]

Since I was mentioned I feel compelled to respond.
I think the main thing that is that Performance metrics does not equal Appearance.
This is really true in fancy cuts where the standards for performance set by some group do not line up with the appearance that people love from that type of cut. Who is right in that case?
It is entirely possible for a stone to have an awesome ASET image and for someone to hate the way it looks.
It is equally possible for someone to love a diamond with a less than stellar ASET.

Another issues is that ASET images are static and diamonds are rarely static when being worn.
When David sends me a good looking ASET of a diamond the first thing I ask him is how does it look as you move it?
When I see something that is not perfect on an ASET, I point out how to see it in person and judge how it affects real world appearance.
I cant go too far down this rabbit hole without it being self promotion....
I think you can get the picture however.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Just found these. These are all slightly to a bit more over budget, but I wanted to find some options that looked great. If you like these please put on hold. Like right now. Then ask for ASET. I don't expect my first two to ASET perfectly, but hopefully better than the one that began this thread.

Hoping some fancy lovers chime in on the traditional ovals and the covals (my term ).

These are not perfect (especially at the E/W in the table), but it otherwise exceed your brief and looks great by video.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.04-carat-d-color-vs2-clarity-sku-4281771 {9.78*7.30*4.63; It also has clouds and additional clouds, so that will need to be reviewed, but at VS2...rarely an issue.}
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.01-carat-f-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-4375524 {9.48*7.21*4.54}

I was super excited about that until this one. Hubba Hubba. One tiny cloud on a VS1...forget about it!
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.03-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-3458756 (9.81*7.42*4.60}

This should really be called a coval. This is stunning! I love this stone. I love the cushiony faceting with the oval outline. If this baby has a nice ASET, I'd be in love.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.02-carat-d-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-2653627 {10.36*6.89*3.98}

Cousin to the coval above.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.01-carat-e-color-vs2-clarity-sku-326569 {9.86*6.63*4.33}

@tyty333 @valeria101 @diamondseeker2006 @Niel @jaimem123

I really think this one looks great, and the best of the bunch! I can honestly say that this is a stone I could consider buying for myself! Nice find, RS!

https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.03-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-3458756

As to the last two, I think from their table shape, they may have started life as marquise and were recut. That first one has dimensions that would make me think that being narrow and long. Second one has too thick a girdle. So I am on team 2.03 G VS1, and I hope the OP reserves it because it isn't easy to find one that good, plus, really nice color and clarity!

 

[JDDN]

I was going to say the 2.03 G VS1 looks really, very nice! I would definitely take a look at that one in person if it's feasible and within your specs/budget. +1 on a nice find RS .

 

[JDDN]

Rockdiamond- That you are analyzing what the diamond is telling you vs what the ASET is telling you is really cool. When I was evaluating some diamonds for my own consideration, I decided to look at the 3 stones in various environments and pick a favorite and then AFTER that, look at the ASET's. The stone I liked the most had a marginal ASET, lol. But it didn't change my perspective or my mind of why I liked the stone I liked.

You makes some good points about a RB always being round vs say an oval with varying dimensions so that is certainly a consideration in terms of preference and the wider range of 'well cut' ovals. I also think you hit on something that a seller is especially privy to. The way you view 'performance' is greatly swayed by what the client's preferences are and what the client is looking for. I think when just looking at ASET's it is more of an objective analysis vs looking at the actual stone which is more of a subjective analysis. Both valid and both important.

I completely agree that the ASET alone does not with certainty define whether or not the stone is going to be beautiful to the beholder. For the purposes here on PS with respect to helping people vet stones to take a further look, the ASET is one really great tool to use. It's not the be all end all with a 100% correlation to the most beautiful diamond in real life, but for people who are ordering stones and having to pay for them to view and will have to pay to return them, it's a very nice piece of technology.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Alright, it seems to me like you have basically the same taste that my girlfriend does. Except I can't afford a 2+ct oval, so the size dropoff is even more pronounced for me. Since she liked the traditional ovals we looked at, and I was already squeamish about shelling out for the ~1.7ct diamond she had her eyes on -- I think it doesn't make sense for me to do the opulent oval even though they do seem so cool. if you do happen to come across an oval that you like except that it's too small (i.e. because it's like 1.6-1.8ct), would you pleeeease let me know?

Thank you guys very much!

With respect to the search -- she seems far more interested in finding the perfect setting. I might even try to propose with a stone on a super basic setting and then work with her to find the perfect one. I want to maintain some surprise though...

Hi! Please post a new thread and tell us the basics of what you're looking for and the budget, and people will be glad to help you, too!

 

[SparklenHue123]

Thank you everyone!!! I got the ASET images for the G and one other

Here is the G: https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.03-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-3458756 . It looks GREAT !!!!!! But -the blue suggests a bow tie I presume? But it's balanced ?? This is where I get a little fumbly with ASET images lol. The spread is just under 10 mm long so it's a just a wee bit smaller than I wanted but not too bad. amazing find @rockysalamander !! thank you! If we think that the ASET is good - I'll put a hold while the b2c return gets processed!



Here is a 2.35 E VS that I also found: https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.35-carat-e-color-vs2-clarity-sku-4463634 . although I wonder about the medium flor with an E color.



And lastly - this is the ASET from a G VS that I have coming from B2C which I don't believe is too shabby? Yes there is a lot of white but it seems to have a bright belly WITH reds and greens spread throughout.



Gosh you guys - I just can't believe how dead the E was that I got today - it literally looks like a piece of glass !! LOL so happy I came to PS and learned a thing or two

 

[TreeScientist]

Thank you everyone!!! I got the ASET images for the G and one other

Here is the G: https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.03-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-3458756 . It looks GREAT !!!!!! But -the blue suggests a bow tie I presume? But it's balanced ?? This is where I get a little fumbly with ASET images lol. The spread is just under 10 mm long so it's a just a wee bit smaller than I wanted but not too bad. amazing find @rockysalamander !! thank you! If we think that the ASET is good - I'll put a hold while the b2c return gets processed!



Here is a 2.35 E VS that I also found: https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.35-carat-e-color-vs2-clarity-sku-4463634 . although I wonder about the medium flor with an E color.



And lastly - this is the ASET from a G VS that I have coming from B2C which I don't believe is too shabby? Yes there is a lot of white but it seems to have a bright belly WITH reds and greens spread throughout.



Gosh you guys - I just can't believe how dead the E was that I got today - it literally looks like a piece of glass !! LOL so happy I came to PS and learned a thing or two

The ASET for the G VS1 looks great as far as normal OBs are concerned! That's the best you've posted in this thread yet! Yes, the blue does indicate a small bow-tie, which can be seen in the JA video as well, but it's hardly noticeable and actually looks nice since it's symmetrical. What's key here is that there are a lot of red and green areas on the top/bottom and sides and only a few white areas, which indicates that the diamond should look fairly "lively." I definitely think you should place this one on hold and try to see it in person. I imagine it would look much better than the "dead E" that you received today.

Great find @rockysalamander!