Oval Diamond Engagement Rings

About Oval Shaped Diamonds

Oval solitaire

The oval may seem like a truly antique option, but in fact, it is a relatively new diamond shape, only perfected in the 1960s by Lazare Kaplan. At the same time, however, the oval is so similar to the popular round brilliant shape that it immediately became favored by discerning brides-to-be, which has led to many grandmothers passing on oval shaped heirloom engagement rings to younger generations. Today, oval shapes are once again growing in popularity and can be found in different ring styles and designs to suit any couple’s preferences.

Oval Diamond Quality

An oval diamond has 56 facets: slightly fewer than the round brilliant diamond shape, which makes it slightly less sparkly. Because of the elongated shape, oval diamonds can have a bow-tie shadow effect in their interior reflections, though a well cut oval diamond will have only a small, barely noticeable shadow. The traditional length-to-width ratio for a perfectly proportioned oval is between 1.3 and 1.6, though the precise shape of the gem is largely determined by personal preference – some couples prefer a lengthier oval, while others want a diamond with a thicker appearance.

Because of the fewer facets and the elongated shape, exceptional diamond color and clarity is crucial for a beautiful oval stone. Flaws and inclusions are more visible in this shape and a high quality stone will have fewer noticeable blemishes.

Styles of Oval Diamond Engagement Rings

Oval diamonds are classically beautiful, though not as predictable as round diamonds and not as flashy as marquise diamonds. There is still a wide range of ring styles to choose from with this exquisite shape, however, including:

Accented oval ring

• Tiffany settings to highlight the stone or bezel settings for a more vintage appearance.
• Three stone engagement rings that use graduated ovals or similarly sized gems.
• Rings with multiple accents such as a trio of small round diamond chips or larger pear shapes or trilliant side stones.
• Unusual east-west settings that position the diamond lengthwise along the ring’s band.
• Cluster settings that surround the oval stone with accents, similar to Princess Diana’s engagement ring.
• Non-faceted oval stones such as opals, turquoise, and other unusual gemstones.
• Split shank diamond rings that help balance the longer stone shape.
• Textured engagement ring mountings that swirl the ring’s band around the center stone to accentuate its unusual shape.

Finding Ovals

Oval gemstone ring

Despite their similarity to round shapes and their growing popularity, it can be difficult to find oval diamond engagement rings, particularly as diamond solitaires. Couples interested in this type of engagement ring may want to investigate loose diamonds that can then be mounted in semi mount rings for a completed design. Online jewelry stores typically have a larger selection of oval diamonds available and may be a good option for couples comfortable buying an engagement ring online.

While oval diamonds may be challenging to find, colored oval semi precious gemstones are relatively abundant. This makes oval stones a great option for couples interested in birthstone engagement rings or other gemstone rings for a colorful ring as well as a more creative shape.

Additional Oval Diamond Jewelry

Oval diamonds are also popular in other types of jewelry that can make luxurious engagement gifts or bridal jewelry. Bracelets, pendants, and diamond earrings can all be found with this elongated shape, and it is a popular choice for class rings with any type of gemstone.

Oval diamond engagement rings are stunningly beautiful options that help elongate fingers and emphasize the center stone without losing the classic feel of a vintage diamond shape. With many options available for different styles and alternative gemstones, oval rings are becoming increasingly popular with brides-to-be.