Oval Lab-Grown Diamond 5×3 mm, Loose

An oval lab-grown diamond, 5 x 3 mm, D to F color, VVS clarity, sold individually. The same elliptical shape, but more elongated than the 4 x 3 version.

The length ratio decides how the stone looks

A 5 x 3 stone has a length-to-width ratio of about 1.67, much slimmer than the 4 x 3. Set lengthwise on a ring, it lengthens the finger more noticeably; used as side stones, it draws the eye more strongly toward the center.

But the longer the ratio, the more likely a dark bow-tie shape shows across the middle. The trade calls it a bowtie; it appears where light can't reach the center. Every oval has some, and in a well-cut stone it's faint enough not to notice.

With this shape, see it in person

Frankly: the bowtie isn't recorded on a grading report and can't be seen in photos. Two ovals with the same measurements, color and clarity can still differ clearly on this point.

If you're buying an oval for an important piece, drop by and look at the stone in ordinary light. This is a shape where seeing it with your own eyes is worth more than reading the specs.

Ordering and setting

Listed in two dimensions in millimetres, with no ly size. Tell us the orientation before setting — lengthwise or crosswise on the piece.

An elongated stone needs a seat that firmly grips both curved ends. If one end falls short, the stone will wobble after a few months, even if it felt tight when first set.

Care

Wash with warm water and a soft brush, paying attention to the underside in the middle of the stone, where oil collects most. A dirty oval makes the bowtie area look even darker.

Take it off for heavy work. Have the prongs at both ends checked every few months.