The Ultimate Guide to Buying an Oval Diamond Engagement Ring

Oval diamond engagement rings are a popular choice for those seeking a blend of traditional elegance with modern aesthetics. The elongated shape of the oval cut creates a unique, sophisticated appearance while maximizing the diamond's carat weight, giving the illusion of a larger stone. This cut also offers excellent brilliance and sparkle, similar to that of a round cut diamond. Oval engagement rings are versatile, complementing a variety of settings and styles, making them a timeless and graceful option for an engagement ring. If you’re looking to purchase an oval diamond engagement ring, here are a few important things to consider:

Are oval engagement rings more expensive?

In general, no, oval engagement rings are not more expensive than other types of diamonds. When looking at the price per carat of oval diamonds compared to round diamonds, round diamonds are actually more expensive. For example, a 2 carat, D, VVS1 lab-grown oval diamond is roughly $2,400 per carat, while a round-cut diamond, with the same specifications, is roughly $3,000 per carat. 

What is the most important thing to consider when buying an oval engagement ring?

The most important thing to consider when purchasing an oval diamond engagement ring is actually the combination of proportions, cut, and carat weight. It’s important to purchase an oval that compliments you or your partner's finger the best. 

What is the bow-tie effect with oval diamonds?

The bow-tie effect in oval diamonds refers to a visible pattern that resembles a bow tie across the center of the stone. This phenomenon occurs due to the way light is reflected within the diamond. If the facets are not perfectly aligned, areas within the diamond will not reflect light properly, creating dark regions in the shape of a bow tie. While a slight bow-tie effect is common and can even add character to the diamond, a pronounced bow-tie can detract from its overall beauty. Proper cutting and proportioning by skilled craftsmen can minimize this effect, ensuring that the diamond sparkles brilliantly from all angles. At Besette, we select the finest cut stones to ensure your diamond has optimal sparkle and brilliance. 

What is the best ratio for an oval diamond?

The best ratio depends on your personal preference. A diamond's ratio refers to the proportional relationship between its length and width. This measurement is particularly important for fancy-shaped diamonds, such as ovals, emeralds, and marquises. The ratio is calculated by dividing the length of the diamond by its width. For instance, an oval diamond with a length of 10 millimeters and a width of 6 millimeters would have a length-to-width ratio of 1.67 (10 divided by 6). This ratio would create a “skinny” oval or an “elongated oval”. 

The ideal ratio varies depending on personal preference and the type of diamond. For oval diamonds, a typical desirable ratio ranges from 1.3 to 1.5, where 1.3 tends to produce a rounder appearance and 1.5 offers a more elongated look. 

How much does an oval engagement ring cost?