Does an oval cut make the stone appear bigger?

"It depends on the proportion and depth. A less deep stone will have a broader 'spread' and look larger than its carat weight," Rector explains.

How much does an oval engagement ring typically cost?

"There are many variables to diamond pricing; the same carat of stone can range from $5,000 to over $60,000. On average, Costanté consumers spend $10,000 on their engagement ring," says Hung. "There are looks to fit every budget!," adds Rector.

What is the most popular carat weight of an oval engagement ring?

"We see customers buying slightly larger stones than rounds - around 1.5 to 2 carats average," Rector says. "1 to 1.5 carats can achieve a subtle look but can also be dressed extravagantly with a diamond halo to exaggerate the center stone appearance," explains Hung.

The 30 Best Oval Engagement Rings of 2021

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Tiffany Oval Cut Ring — Courtesy of Tiffany / Design by Michela Buttignol

Whether you’re hoping for a minimal, timeless, or vintage-inspired engagement ring, an oval-cut diamond will do just the trick. With their elongated shape, flattering effect, and ability to look bigger than their actual carat size, oval diamonds are becoming more and more popular in a variety of settings.

Several celebrity engagements have contributed to the revival of brides' love for the oval engagement ring in recent years. When Hailey Baldwin Bieber was spotted with an eye-catching oval-shaped diamond on an 18k gold band in the summer of 2018, it reminded us why this eternally classic style is so popular.

What Is an Oval Engagement Ring?

An oval engagement ring incorporates an oval-cut diamond or a gemstone such as a ruby or sapphire. Modern oval diamonds have been available since 1957, after the cut was introduced by diamond cutter Lazare Kaplan. An oval-cut stone may be incorporated into any setting from solitaire or three-stone to a diamond pavé band.

Oval engagement rings are a stunning choice and appeal to a variety of brides, including those looking for something just slightly different. “Oval engagement rings are great for women who love the classics but want something just a little bit unique,” says Lauren Priori. “Ovals have the ability to feel feminine and fresh but are still more timeless than trendier shapes like pears or marquises.”

Meet the Expert

Lauren Priori is an expert in the craft of jewelry design as well as the owner of L. Priori Jewelry, a custom jeweler based in Philadelphia.
Roxanna Rector is the Senior Buyer for engagement and bridal rings at Blue Nile.
Originally a self-taught jewelry designer, Connie Hung is now the founder and creative director of Costanté.
Nicole Wegman has blurred the distinct line between jeweler and influencer as the founder and CEO of Ring Concierge.

To select the perfect oval engagement ring, keep in mind that each oval-cut diamond is truly unique. “Some of them are long and thin, others are wide and round, some have pointy ends, and some have flatter ends that almost veer into cushion-shaped territory,” says Priori. “Look at a variety of stones to make sure you choose the stone that's right for you. At the end of the day, trust your own eyes! You're the one wearing the diamond, so you have to love it.”

According to Priori, it's also important to keep an eye out for the bow-tie effect, or a dark facet pattern, that can often occur with oval stones. “All ovals will have some bow tie, but you'll want a stone that's as evenly bright throughout as possible,” she says.

If an alternative oval engagement ring appeals to you, every type of setting from solitaire to sparkly pavé bands and halos are right at your fingertips. No matter your taste, there’s undoubtedly an oval in the perfect setting for you.

Here are our 30 favorite oval engagement rings.

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SHW Mes Ring in Gold

This double-band setting is architectural and sleek, offering a modern option. Its double-band is made with recycled gold and paired with an oval-cut diamond for a stunning design.

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Eva Fehren The Undercover Ring

We’ve never seen anything like this incredible portrait-cut oval ring. With a rose gold band decorated in diamonds, as well as an inverted oval diamond, this option handmade in New York City is definitely a unique piece to be cherished for years to come.

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Lizzie Mandler Oval Diamond With Signature Knife Edge Solitaire Band

Utilizing an oval diamond makes a solitaire setting stand out that much more. And this ring, with 18k yellow gold, captures that perfectly to create a lovely piece.

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Zales 1 CT. Certified Oval Diamond Split Shank Solitaire Engagement Ring in 14K Rose Gold

We can't get enough of this rose gold split shank option. With such an intriguing design, paired with a gorgeous oval diamond solitaire, this is the perfect ring for the bride who wants something classic, yet a touch of unique.

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Vrai The Hover Solitaire Ring

This stunning gem switches up the typical solitaire setting. With a white gold pavé band and a gorgeous oval diamond, this is an unexpected twist on a classic setting.

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Ceremony Dahlia Oval Ring

This East-West oval just screams sleek. We love the classic simplicity of this yellow gold design, with a feminine touch and just a tiny hint of vintage appeal.

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Shahla Karimi Oval East-West Ring

We love the addition of baguette diamonds to the band of this ring, switching up the typical pavé look. With an East-West oval setting, this is such a gorgeous and unique option, reminiscent of the 1920s.

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Tiffany & Co. Oval Halo Engagement Ring with a Diamond Platinum Band

With a pavé band, this oval is the epitome of classic. Halos offer the perfect setting to really make an oval diamond shine.

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Vrai The Duet Ring

This platinum ring marries classic and modern in the most beautiful way. With a split shank band, with partial pavé and an oval solitaire, you'll have a hard time not staring at this ring for hours on end.

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Blue Nile Wide Band Solitaire Engagement Ring

This oval solitaire is a sparkly stunner, but the incorporation of a wide yellow gold band turns the design on its head. Typically, solitaires are set with a thin, sleek band, but we love the way this bold design is switching it up.

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Allurez Diamond Accented Oval Engagement Ring

There is simply nothing that we don't love about this classic oval solitaire. Available in a variety of metals, the bride can even personalize this ring to match her distinct style; who wouldn't want that?

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Mociun Modified Brilliant Diamond Ring

This reverse-set antique diamond ring feels so romantic. With an 18k yellow gold band, six baguette diamonds, and one oval diamond, this piece is truly one-of-a-kind.

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Aprés Jewelry The Stella Ring Setting

What’s more distinctive than a rustic oval diamond on a super thin band? The way this ring marries a classic solitaire setting with claw prongs and an absolutely gorgeous rustic diamond perfectly brings together old and new.

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Vera Wang Oval Diamond Frame Engagement Ring in 14K White Gold with Black Rhodium

This piece just screams classic, yet incredibly unique. White gold is paired with black rhodium to set a bold stage for diamonds along the band, as well as a stunning oval halo.

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Porter Gulch Presley Ring

Featuring eight baguettes on a yellow band, this ring is a bit Art Deco. The gorgeous band paired with an oval diamond is a unique take on minimalism.

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Blue Nile Oval Ruby and Round Diamond Halo Ring

For many, opting for an oval ring is all about the vintage vibe, and this ring certainly hits that nail on the head. With a rose gold band, a diamond halo, and a beautiful oval ruby, this design is a dream.

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Jade Trau Rae Wrap Ring With Pavé

Go for some drama with this unique wrap ring. We love the way a diamond pavé band leads to an oval diamond for a striking look.

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Kwiat Oval Diamond Engagement Ring with Two Half Moon Side Stones

If you’re all about glitz, look no further than this platinum ring with an oval diamond. The two dazzling side stones incorporated truly make this ring pop.

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Grace Lee Oval Rose-Cut Diamond Octagonal Bezel Ring

With an octagonal bezel setting, this rose-cut oval is nothing short of exceptional. Set with a rose gold band, this is such a unique option, while still incorporating a classic oval.

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ILA Brune Ring

If delicate isn’t your look, how about eight claw prongs and a signet setting? Made with recycled 18k gold, this design offers a unique way to show off a dreamy oval-cut diamond.

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Aprés Jewelry The Valentina Ring

This is the ultimate rose gold oval engagement ring. With 18-karat rose gold, a pavé band, and an oval diamond in the center, this ring holds its simplicity while incorporating a lovely sparkle.

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Brilliant Earth Secret Garden Diamond Engagement Ring

This is intricacy at its finest. Adorned with marquise-shaped diamonds intertwined throughout this nature-inspired band, it is no doubt that this elegant oval solitaire is the cherry on top.

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Jennie Kwon Designs Diamond Disc Ring

How sweet is this delicate oval ring? While many settings utilize an oval-cut diamond to look larger, this sleek ring is just the opposite. We love the simple inclusion of an East-West oval diamond with milgrain detailing.

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Michelle Oh Marina Rose Ring

Hello, gorgeous! Rose gold meets white diamonds and a brilliant oval sapphire with this ring. This timeless oval is the definition of a stunning design.

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Forevermark Icon™ Setting Oval Engagement Ring with Diamond Band

This platinum band incorporates pavé diamonds for even more sparkle to pair with a beautiful oval diamond. And as an added bonus, the ring arches up into the basket beneath the center diamond to offer the ultimate comfort-fit.

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Bario Neal Icon Hex Diamond Oval Ring

Who says an oval diamond can't be incorporated into a three-stone setting? This ring, with 14k yellow gold and hexagonal side stones, is a true work of art.

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Anna Sheffield Bea East/West Solitaire Ring

We love the simplicity of this ring, with subtle unique additions. A tapered shank sets this East-West ring apart, along with double-prongs and a gorgeous oval diamond.

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Simply Tacori Platinum Ring With Side Stones and Oval Diamond

We can't get over all of the intricate details of this piece. A platinum band features baguette side stones, adding a contrasting geometric touch to this oval diamond ring.

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Kay Jewelers Three-Stone Diamond Ring Oval Round 14K Rose Gold

This is such a stunning, romantic option with a hint of a vintage feel. A rose gold band is paired with two round side stones and a bold oval diamond in the center for a gorgeous look.

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Brilliant Earth Moissanite Elodie Ring

We'll say it time and time again: nothing beats a classic. Available in a variety of metals to choose from, this oval solitaire engagement ring adds a subtle modern touch to a design that will simply never get old.

What to Look for When Choosing an Oval Engagement Ring

Band

While there are truly no rules when it comes to selecting features to complement your oval stone, we had experts weigh in with insider tips and tricks to consider before you flaunt your forever ring. "We love contour bands that follow the curve of the oval or matching the stones on the band with your center," says Roxanna Rector.

Ultimately, brides generally gravitate towards a minimalistic look. "The modern aesthetic lies in the dainty simplicity of the diamond band," says Connie Hung. "We love our oval sets with a Whisper Thin band, so that the diamond is the star of the show," adds Nicole Wegman.

Setting

Due to the timeless nature of oval stones, simple settings typically pair best with oval diamonds. "Oval engagement rings are especially striking in solitaire settings that show off the spread of the diamond," Wegman suggests.

When in doubt, stick to the classics. "Almost every setting that pairs well with a round diamond will also work for an oval," says Rector.

Style

Oval-shaped diamonds offer great versatility, as they can be designed in ways that accommodate various distinct looks. "Ovals can be super modern (compass-set solitaire on a thin band) or quite romantic (vintage-inspired milgrain) depending on the look you're going for," Rector says.

"While each individual's preference is different, our most popular designs tend to lean towards a classic look with a modern flair" says Hung. "For extra flair, we recommend adding a diamond halo underneath the stone."

FAQ

Does an oval cut make the stone appear bigger?

"It depends on the proportion and depth. A less deep stone will have a broader 'spread' and look larger than its carat weight," Rector explains.
How much does an oval engagement ring typically cost?

"There are many variables to diamond pricing; the same carat of stone can range from $5,000 to over $60,000. On average, Costanté consumers spend $10,000 on their engagement ring," says Hung. "There are looks to fit every budget!," adds Rector.
What is the most popular carat weight of an oval engagement ring?

"We see customers buying slightly larger stones than rounds - around 1.5 to 2 carats average," Rector says. "1 to 1.5 carats can achieve a subtle look but can also be dressed extravagantly with a diamond halo to exaggerate the center stone appearance," explains Hung.

50 Classic Engagement Rings for the Timeless Bride

30 Best Oval Engagement Rings for the Fashion-Forward Bride

A modern-bride favorite.

SHW Mes Ring in Gold

Eva Fehren The Undercover Ring

Lizzie Mandler Oval Diamond With Signature Knife Edge Solitaire Band

Zales 1 CT. Certified Oval Diamond Split Shank Solitaire Engagement Ring in 14K Rose Gold

Vrai The Hover Solitaire Ring

Ceremony Dahlia Oval Ring

Shahla Karimi Oval East-West Ring

Tiffany & Co. Oval Halo Engagement Ring with a Diamond Platinum Band

Vrai The Duet Ring

Blue Nile Wide Band Solitaire Engagement Ring

Allurez Diamond Accented Oval Engagement Ring

Mociun Modified Brilliant Diamond Ring

Aprés Jewelry The Stella Ring Setting

Vera Wang Oval Diamond Frame Engagement Ring in 14K White Gold with Black Rhodium

Porter Gulch Presley Ring

Blue Nile Oval Ruby and Round Diamond Halo Ring

Jade Trau Rae Wrap Ring With Pavé

Kwiat Oval Diamond Engagement Ring with Two Half Moon Side Stones

Grace Lee Oval Rose-Cut Diamond Octagonal Bezel Ring

ILA Brune Ring

Aprés Jewelry The Valentina Ring

Brilliant Earth Secret Garden Diamond Engagement Ring

Jennie Kwon Designs Diamond Disc Ring

Michelle Oh Marina Rose Ring

Forevermark Icon™ Setting Oval Engagement Ring with Diamond Band

Bario Neal Icon Hex Diamond Oval Ring

Anna Sheffield Bea East/West Solitaire Ring

Simply Tacori Platinum Ring With Side Stones and Oval Diamond

Kay Jewelers Three-Stone Diamond Ring Oval Round 14K Rose Gold

Brilliant Earth Moissanite Elodie Ring

What to Look for When Choosing an Oval Engagement Ring

Band

Setting

Style

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