Oval Engagement Ring Guide 2023

The oval-cut diamond remains a popular choice for engagement rings, and that comes as no surprise. An oval diamond - with its elegant curves, 58 facets, and brilliant shine – is a charming gem for a ring that symbolizes love and commitment.

Did you know that the egg-shaped oval got its name from the Latin word “ovus” which means egg? That only makes the oval-cut diamond more appropriate for an engagement ring as the shape’s name origin is symbolic of rebirth, fertility, and new beginnings.

If this organic geometric shape with no straight line appeals to you or your special someone, this guide can help you. Read on and equip yourself with the correct information when buying an engagement ring with an oval-cut diamond.

What is an oval engagement ring?

An oval engagement ring is a token of love decorated with a gemstone in an oval cut. An oval-cut diamond, in particular, is a common choice for an engagement ring. An oval diamond has the classic vibe of a round cut yet exudes a distinct charm with its elongated form. Women who choose oval-cut diamonds see the shape as a modified round with a bit more personality and a full dose of glamour.

What is the significance of an oval engagement ring?

Engagement rings with oval diamonds signify different meanings. It can be seen as a symbol of a new beginning, life and rebirth, the promise of eternal love, and fertility. Such symbolisms make oval diamond engagement rings truly appropriate for pledging love and devotion. It stands for a couple's new journey together and their wish to have a prosperous and fruitful marriage.

Being not a perfect circle and not an angular polygon, the oval shape has its own distinctive mold, making it more appealing to creatives and visionaries who refuse to be boxed in by cultural and societal norms.

Are oval engagement rings trendy?

Oval engagement rings for women come with timeless stylishness. There’s a reason why they are still as popular as they were many, many years ago.

The very first oval-cut diamond was recorded in 1304, but it was just a simple enhancement of a rough stone. The oval cut we know today was made in 1957 by the famed Lazare Kaplan, a Russian diamond dealer. Kaplan marketed his invented oval cut as more elegant than the emerald cut. Kaplan’s oval cut gained popularity, and many jewelers noticed that the oval cut looks larger than a round-cut diamond and is less costly.

When Princess Diana wore a 12-carat oval sapphire ring in 1981, the oval cut became all the more popular. The cut continues to be popular until this day, not only for diamonds but also for other precious stones.

Oval VS Round Diamonds for Engagement Rings

The oval cut and the round cut are extremely popular diamond cut choices for engagement rings and other pieces of fine jewelry. You can’t go wrong with either choice. Deciding which cut to pick for an engagement ring depends on the wearer’s preference and budget.

Round-cut diamonds will cost more than oval-cut diamonds because of the former’s enduring popularity and the cutting process. Turning a raw, rough, and imperfect diamond into a round cut yields a lot of raw material wastage which translates to higher costs.

If one is after the actual geometric size, the oval-cut diamond will provide a larger surface area than a round-cut diamond. An oval diamond will appear larger than a round diamond even with the same carat weight.

If sparkle is the primary deciding factor, both are very sparkly but a well-cut round diamond will still deliver a bit more extra sparkle than an oval-cut diamond.

Oval Diamond VS Gemstones for Engagement Rings

Choosing an oval diamond over a gemstone for an engagement ring has advantages and disadvantages. An oval diamond is an undeniably gorgeous and hardwearing stone, but it can be more expensive than most oval-cut colored gemstones.

Some prefer the whimsical sophistication of colored gemstones, though. Because gemstones are available in an array of stunning colors, one can choose a gem that sparkles and stands out like the wearer’s unique personality and style. Gemstones also cost less per carat than diamonds.

How much does an oval diamond cost?

Expect to find a 0.5-carat oval-cut diamond within the $660 to $2300 range. The price of a loose 0.75-carat oval-cut diamond is around $1500. A 1-carat oval diamond ranges from $1,600 to $9,100. For a 3-carat oval diamond, expect to pay above $14,000. Remember that the color and clarity grade will also affect an oval-cut diamond’s price.

What is the ideal length-to-width ratio for an oval-cut diamond?

What’s also great about oval-cut diamonds is that they give more options regarding the shape outline, silhouette, and character of the stone. You can get wider oval diamonds or narrow oval diamonds. Oval diamonds have varying length-to-width ratios, with an approximate range of 1.25 to 1.60. Experts say that the ideal length-to-width ratio is 1.35-1.50 for a just right, not too round, not too pointy oval shape.

Which metal is best for an oval diamond engagement ring?

Precious metals have their own pros and cons. There is no “best” metal for an oval diamond engagement ring or any other type of jewelry.

Platinum will always be an excellent option because of its unmatched durability and elegant sheen that complements the sparkle of diamonds. White gold is a more budget-friendly alternative to platinum as they are both tough and have that silvery white appearance. Yellow gold is a classic choice while rose gold is a more modern and romantic option. Gold-plated sterling silver is another resilient metal option and is the most cost-effective choice.

You can opt for a mixed-metal diamond engagement ring for a two-toned elegance.

How To Measure Ring Size at Home

You can measure your ring size without going to a jeweler. Simply wrap a string, floss, or strip of paper around the ring finger, just below the knuckle. Ensure the fit is snug (but not too snug), then cut or mark where the two ends meet. Flatten the thin paper strip or string, then measure it in millimeters or inches. Match the measurement with the standard ring size chart below.

How to Take Care of an Oval Diamond Engagement Ring

You must provide your ring with a safe, secure, and soft storage space. You can use individual soft cases or pouches or a felt-lined or fabric-lined jewelry box with partitions so your precious jewels won’t rub against each other.

Regularly clean your diamond engagement ring to remove oil and residue build-up. Pat it dry after gently washing it in warm water and a mild dish soap solution.

A monthly inspection will help keep your oval diamond engagement ring in tip-top condition. If you can, have a professional jeweler examine it at least once a year.