Oval Engagement Rings: The Complete Guide

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS--

An oval-cut engagement ring can be a stunning choice for any bride-to-be. The more you learn about the oval-cut, and once couples better understand the meaning and symbolism behind this classic diamond shape, the more they will realize just how perfect it is to represent their union.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About The Oval Cut
• Oval Cut Symbolism
• Uniqueness
• Family
• Connections
• Famous Oval Cut Engagement Rings
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Designs For Oval Engagement Rings

About the Oval Cut

An oval-shaped diamond evokes the classic and traditional vibe of the popular round or radiant cut diamond, but stretches to its own uniqueness. Because an oval is a modification of a round shape, it still has just as many facets and as much sparkle and brilliance, but there is much more variation in its overall proportions. Oval cuts have been around for centuries, but it wasn’t until the late 1950s and early 1960s that the modern oval cut was fashioned. Invented by expert diamond cutter Lazare Kaplan of Russia, this cut elongates that traditional round shape, but retains the rounded edge for greater durability than shapes with sharp corners. This makes an oval cut stone ideal for an active lifestyle and daily wear, perfect for an engagement ring. This shape looks particularly lovely on thick fingers or small hands, as the elongated shape helps give the illusion of greater length.

The proportions of an oval cut diamond or gemstone can vary widely, and the final choice is largely a matter of personal preference. The most common proportions are for the stone to be between 2-3 times as long as it is wide, but both thinner and thicker ovals are also suitable for engagement rings. As a longer cut, the surface area of an oval-shaped stone is increased, which can give it the illusion of a greater carat weight, making more of a visual impact that other stone shapes of similar size.

Symbolism

The square shape of a princess cut diamond may be simple, but there’s nothing simple about its symbolism. Couples can consider the shape’s meaning in a variety of ways as they choose an engagement ring, including…

1. Uniqueness

An oval cut engagement ring has many meanings beyond the love, romance, and commitment of one relationship. This stone shape represents uniqueness and individuality, as well as pushing boundaries while still respecting and honoring tradition.

2. Family

Because the oval is the shape of an egg, this stone shape also symbolizes fertility, rebirth, and family. This can be ideal for a couple hoping to start their family together, or recommitting themselves to a new relationship after a previous engagement, marriage, or breakup.

3. Connections

The graceful curves of an oval shape also create a sense of connection and community, fostering harmony and completion. This is a romantic meaning for couples who “complete” one another and are finding their connections together. The modified circle of an oval is also representative of eternity, perfect for the everlasting promise of an engagement ring.

Famous Oval Cut Engagement Rings

Oval cut engagement rings are lovely designs, and many celebrities and royal figures have opted for oval shapes to their engagement rings. Blake Lively, Katie Holmes, Julianne Hough, Serena Williams, and Hailey Baldwin have all opted for different engagement rings featuring oval center stones, as have Duchess of Cambridge Catherine Middleton and Princess Eugenie of York. With so many high profile names preferring oval-shaped gems, an oval cut engagement ring brings a bit of high society glamour to any bride-to-be who wears it.