Buying Guide for Oval Engagement Rings

Oval engagement rings look stunning—their modern shape, intense brilliance, and versatility make them a popular choice. While they're a modern choice, they're also timeless. If you're considering getting an oval diamond for your engagement ring, but aren't sure about how to pick one, then you're in luck. We've created a buying guide that focuses on oval engagement rings.

Why Choose an Oval Engagement Ring?

Oval diamonds are great for someone who wants a less traditional engagement ring, with an everlasting and timeless appeal. The elegant, elongated shape is flattering on because it gives the illusion that the fingers are longer. Another attractive characteristic is it looks larger per carat than round diamonds of the same carat weight. It's a lovely choice for diamond jewelry because it stands out without being too trendy—it's still a classic choice.

Key Features to Consider

Some of the key features to consider when picking out an oval diamond are related to their quality grades, also called the 4 Cs. First up, cut.

Cut Quality

Cut is crucial for oval diamonds. The diamond should look symmetrical and proportionate. The ideal length-to-width ratio is generally about 1.3 to 1.5. If the cut is off, the diamond might look rounder instead of oval. The cut also affects the diamond's brilliance, and could cause the bow-tie effect, which is a dark shadow that appears in the center of some poorly-cut stones.

Carat Weight and Size Appearance

Oval diamonds can maximize your engagement ring budget because they appear larger than other shapes of the same carat weight. They give the most visual impact for your money without going outside of your budget.

Clarity and Color

It's important to note that oval shapes might show inclusions more than other shapes because of their unique shape. You can examine each diamond that you're considering. Oval cuts also can hide imperfections better than some other shapes, especially near the edges, so you don't need to go for the highest clarity grade. A clarity of VS2 to SI1 typically offers great value—imperfections are often not visible to the naked eye, but the price is more affordable than higher grades like VVS or IF.

In terms of color, oval diamonds can show more warmth than round cuts due to their larger, open facets. For a crisp, bright stone, going with a color grade between G and H typically provides an excellent balance. It still looks white, especially when set in white gold or platinum, but is more budget-friendly than D-F colorless stones. If you're choosing yellow or rose gold, you can go slightly lower, to I or J, because the setting color can help mask any slight warmth in the diamond.

Popular Setting Styles for Oval Diamonds

Each setting style for oval engagement rings gives the ring a different look. Solitaire settings are clean, modern, and timeless. They're perfect for showcasing the beauty of the oval diamond with minimal distraction—the stone is the focus. Halo settings surround the center stone with a circle of smaller diamonds that add some sparkle and make the center appear larger. Three-stone rings feature side stones that represent the past, present, and future, so they're romantic and classic. For a more contemporary twist, look at hidden halo or bezel settings. They offer subtle elegance and enhanced security—the hidden halo adds sparkle from unexpected angles, while the bezel encases the diamond in a sleek, protective frame.

Customization Tips and Buying Advice

Once you have the setting and metal locked down, it's time for some of the smaller details. You'll want to think about the wedding band that will go with the engagement ring and whether or not you want your rings to match your partner's. You can also choose between lab and natural diamonds. Lab diamonds look exactly like natural diamonds (because they have the same properties), but one is made in a controlled lab rather than mined from the earth. Lab-grown diamonds tend to be more affordable as well as sustainable. Opting for a lab diamond oval engagement ring could stretch your budget even more. Another detail is deciding where you'll buy your ring. Whether you go with a brick-and-mortar store or online retailer, make sure you research the company's policies (returns, warranties, ring sizing) and read customer reviews. Getting an engagement ring is a significant purchase and you want it to last for years.

Caring for Your Oval Engagement Ring

Caring and maintaining your engagement ring and any piece of diamond jewelry can ensure that it'll be cherished for many, many years. Clean your ring at home to remove any dirt, oil, and grime and get your diamond sparkling again. Soak it in a bowl with warm water and mild soap for about 15 to 20 minutes. Use a softly-bristled brush around the setting to remove stuck dirt. Rinse your oval engagement ring and it'll look as sparkly as it did when you first got it. It's also a good idea to have your engagement ring inspected by a professional jeweler about once a year. They can ensure the diamonds are safe in the setting and look at the prongs to make sure they're not damaged or worn down.

Enjoy shopping for your oval engagement ring! It's an exciting time and you're sure to find a stunning ring that you'll adore.