The Grace and Glow of the Oval Cut Engagement Ring

Are you dreaming about your perfect engagement ring? Then you’ve surely already been looking online for ideas. You’ve probably noticed one style showing up again and again – the oval cut engagement ring.

The elegant oval diamond ring shape has become a favorite for modern brides. It looks bigger than its size, has ideal sparkle, and feels incredibly romantic. It’s an excellent choice if you love vintage and elegant style.

Celebrities have made this ring style even more popular. Let’s take Blake Lively’s 12-carat pink oval diamond in a rose gold band – this ring became the most copied one by brides. Hailey Bieber wears a glamorous solitaire – a stunning 6-10 carat oval diamond. Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga have also chosen oval stones.

Why are oval cuts so popular? It may seem to be a temporary fashion trend. But it’s a choice that lasts. Read this article to learn more about this diamond shape and what it means. You will also know the benefits and downsides of oval-cut stones and tips on how to find the perfect oval diamond ring.

What Is Oval Cut Dimond Engagement Ring?

An engagement ring in this style has a diamond stretched out. It sparkles exactly the same as a round diamond but has a longer, more elegant shape. Soft, rounded edges and multiple facets (usually 56-58) ideally reflect the light. The elongated shape makes the stone look graceful and feminine. If you want something a little different from a traditional round or square diamond, it’s definitely an oval cut.

The difference in an oval vs round engagement ring is visually clear – ovals are longer and more fluid, and rounds are perfectly circular and classic. Oval diamonds usually have 57-58 facets – same as rounds, but they look larger per carat and give fingers that slender, elegant look. Ovals shine no less than rounds, but they look more romantic thanks to a vintage feel.

The history of the oval cut diamonds is as interesting as their look. Such diamonds also existed in the past, but they were far from perfect. Only in the 50s, a well-known diamond master, Lazare Kaplan, managed to cut the stone facets at the right angle and retain their shine. And even today, his cut remains one of the most successful diamond designs.

Symbolism and Meaning of the Oval Cut

Oval diamonds are in demand today. What’s oval engagement rings meaning? Its smooth, continuous curve represents eternity and unity. The oval’s sophisticated lines symbolize wholeness and an infinite connection. It’s a perfect design for a lifelong commitment.

Oval cuts shout individuality. An oval diamond quietly shows off your style and confidence. It mixes old and new – classic but still different.

The oval is elegant, calming, and graceful. It’s more memorable than a standard round stone. That’s why jewelers say the oval cut becomes a modern classic. Brides looking for something special and enduring often choose oval gems.

Pros of an Oval Cut Engagement Ring

There are many reasons why this cut has become so popular. Here are the benefits of oval engagement rings:

• Look bigger. One of the best features of a ring with an oval gem is that it appears larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight. A 1-carat oval diamond looks like a 1.2-carat round one.

• This shape gives a stone a bold, impressive look without a higher cost.

• Flattering shape. The oval’s length has a slimming effect on the hand. It makes fingers look longer and adds a graceful touch.

• Fantastic sparkle. The oval cut keeps the same dazzling shine as a round diamond. Its shape doesn’t affect the sparkle – it reflects light just as beautifully.

• Versatile style. The oval looks great in any design. It’s wonderful on its own as a solitaire, sparkles even more in a halo, and looks elegant in a three-stone ring.

Ovals are often more affordable than rounds since they use more of the original rough diamond and create less waste.

Cons of Oval Cut Diamond Shape

Oval cut rings are stunning, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you plan to buy one:

• The bow-tie effect. Many oval diamonds show a faint dark shadow across the center that looks like a tiny bow tie. It happens because of light reflection inside the stone. A small bow-tie is fine, but it must not be too dark. This drawback is hard to see in photos, but you will immediately spot it in real life. A well-cut oval will have only a slightly noticeable shadow.

• Symmetry issues. The oval shape must have an ideal balance. If it’s not cut evenly, it may look lopsided. The two ends (the head and the tail) should be symmetrical and rounded, not pointy or flat.

• Clarity check. Ovals have a large, open surface, and even tiny inclusions are immediately noticeable. If you want a clean and bright diamond, choose a clarity grade where flaws aren’t so visible – VS2 or SI1.

Oval Cut vs. Round Cut Engagement Rings

Many brides doubt what shape is better. If you also struggle, consider the following:

• Look and style. Round diamonds are a classic choice. But ovals? They're just as sparkly but have a gentler, artsier vibe. Plus, their length can give fingers a leaner look and add a cool vintage feel.
• Price. Here, the oval often wins. The reason for this is simple, as round diamonds require more rough stone to be cut away, so they are pricier. Ovals usually give you more size for the same budget, so they are often a more reasonable choice.
• Personality. A bride who likes classic, timeless style will appreciate a round diamond ring. This elegant shape is always in fashion. A bride fond of artistic details and vintage charm will love an oval diamond ring. It will add a special touch to her style.

Popular Settings for Oval Cut Rings

The best oval cut engagement rings usually come in one of these settings: 

• Solitaire. It’s timeless and elegant and lets the oval diamond take center stage. The single stone draws all the attention. This clean, minimalist style will look great on any hand. It also pairs beautifully with yellow gold. Many celebrities choose this combination.  
• Halo. In this variant, the oval is circled by small stones. This design makes the main diamond look bigger and more eye-catching. If you love glamour, consider a halo setting. Such a ring will shine from every angle.
• Three-stone setting. Here, an oval diamond takes the center position, and two smaller stones are on either side. Three stones look gorgeous together. You can also choose a slightly different shade for side stones and turn your ring into a masterpiece only you own.   
• East-West setting. This unusual design twist turns the oval horizontally. A bride who loves to step beyond traditions will appreciate it. You can add wedding bands and create a chic look.

How to Buy an Ideal Oval Cut Engagement Ring

If you’re searching for your oval ring, you may quickly feel lost. So, these expert tips will help you find the right match.

• Length-to-width ratio. Here you can choose what you like. However, your oval diamond will look best in a classic shape, with a 1.35 - 1.50. ratio. Actually, it’s not a must. But if it’s closer to 1.30, the stone will look shorter and more rounded. And if you go above 1.50, the oval will look too long and slim. When you see different shapes in real life, you will immediately know which one you do like.
• Cut and symmetry. Many buyers prioritize carat weight and color. But it’s the cut quality that makes an oval so elegant. Look for a stone with flawless symmetry and polish. Look for a diamond with smooth, flowing lines. Its middle should be proportional, and the ends gently rounded. A symmetrical oval will look harmonious on the finger.
• Clarity. It’s known that a diamond is best when it’s an eye-clean stone. VS clarity is usually a safe choice, but many SI1 diamonds also look perfectly clean to the naked eye. Plus, always check the diamond’s certificate (a GIA report) and inspect it attentively before buying.
• Complementary metal and setting. Yellow or rose gold adds warmth to slightly colored diamonds (G–H), and white gold or platinum is great for very white diamonds (D–F). Six prongs offer extra security, and four prongs give a more open look. And don’t forget to think about the wedding band – the best idea is to choose a custom-curved band.

Conclusion: Is an Oval Cut Engagement Ring Right for You?

The oval cut diamond is modern and timeless. It shines like a round diamond but has a unique, flattering shape that feels elegant and personal. It symbolizes love, unity and individuality – all in one.

Is this design right for you? If you love vintage but live a modern life, it’s absolutely your design. If you want an impressive diamond that looks larger for your budget, it also fits. And if you want a ring that truly reflects your style, then the oval cut will definitely cope with this mission.

Of course, you will find a lot of decent options of diamond engagement rings, but the oval has earned its decent place as a modern classic. It doesn’t shout for attention, but wins your heart silently. It captivates with its light, beauty, and timeless charm. An oval cut engagement ring is a perfect reflection of a love that lasts.