Close-up of oval diamond engagement ring in yellow gold on hand, showcasing sparkle and fine claw setting

OVAL CUT DIAMONDS: THE SHAPE EVERYONE’S ASKING FOR

Oval engagement rings have become a favourite for one simple reason: they deliver the sparkle and elegance of a classic diamond, with a shape that can look larger and more elongated on the hand.
If you love a timeless style but want something that feels a little more distinctive than round, oval is a strong choice.

This guide covers what makes oval diamonds so popular, how to choose the right shape and setting, and what to look for so your ring looks brilliant from every angle.

Close-up of hand wearing three stacked yellow gold rings including an oval halo diamond engagement ring and wedding bands.

Why oval engagement rings are so popular?

Oval diamonds sit right between classic and modern. You get the timeless sparkle of a round cut, with an elongated shape that often looks larger for the same carat weight — and flatters the hand beautifully.

They also suit almost any style, from clean solitaires to halos and three-stone designs. If you want something elegant, versatile, and a little less expected than round, oval is an easy yes.

How to Choose an Oval Diamond?

Oval diamonds vary more than people expect. These quick checks help you find one that looks bright, balanced, and brilliant in real life.

  • Length-to-width ratio: This is the “shape feel”. A more rounded oval looks soft and classic; a more elongated oval feels sleek and modern and can look longer on the finger.
  • Bow-tie effect: Some ovals show a darker shadow across the centre. A little can be normal, but you don’t want it to dominate — always check clear video or in-person sparkle before deciding.
  • Cut quality: Cut is the biggest driver of brilliance. A well-cut oval looks lively and bright, while a weaker cut can look dull or show a heavier bow-tie.
  • Setting choice: Solitaire keeps it clean and timeless, halo adds extra sparkle and visual size, and three-stone designs give a bolder look with more presence.
  • Metal choice: White metals (platinum/white gold) feel crisp and modern, yellow gold brings warm contrast, and rose gold gives a softer, romantic finish.

What Makes Oval Diamonds So Flattering?

Oval diamonds are loved for their soft curves and lengthening effect. The shape naturally draws the eye along the finger, creating a slimmer, more elongated look without feeling over the top.

They’re also flexible across settings — solitaire, halo, three-stone and more — so you can keep it simple or go full sparkle while still getting that sleek oval silhouette.

Woman holding three oval engagement rings in yellow gold, showcasing diamond solitaire and halo styles.

Best Settings for Oval Engagement Rings?

Not sure where to start? These are the most-loved oval styles, depending on the look you want.

  • Most timeless: oval solitaire — clean, classic, and all about the centre stone.
  • Most sparkle: oval halo — extra brilliance and a bigger visual presence.
  • Most statement: three-stone oval — bolder on the hand, with added fire from side stones.
  • Most practical: low-profile/secure setting — sits closer to the finger for comfortable everyday wear.

Our Top Oval Diamond Ring Picks

18ct yellow gold solitaire engagement ring with 1ct lab-grown oval diamond in a four-claw setting. Born Yellow Gold Oval Solitaire - 1ct

The ultimate minimalist statement. A full carat of lab-grown sparkle, set simply in rich yellow gold.

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Platinum three-stone engagement ring with 1.40ct lab-grown oval centre diamond flanked by pear-cut side stones. Born Platinum Lab-Grown Oval with Pear Sides - 1.40ct

A bold centre oval diamond paired with pear-shaped side stones. Clean, dramatic, and totally bridal.

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Platinum engagement ring featuring a 1.20ct oval lab-grown diamond with a sparkling halo setting. Born Platinum Oval Diamond Halo - 1.20ct

A full oval centre surrounded by a shimmering halo. Platinum keeps it crisp, the design keeps it timeless.

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Elegant platinum solitaire ring with a 1.50ct lab-grown oval diamond in a classic four-claw setting. Born Platinum Oval Solitaire – 1.50ct

For those who want wow-factor with edge. The 1.50ct oval gives this ring big presence, balanced by the coolness of platinum.

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18ct yellow gold engagement ring with 1.20ct lab-grown oval diamond and diamond-set shoulders. Born Yellow Gold Oval with Diamond Shoulders - 1.20ct

Classic, but not basic. The oval centre is flanked by round side stones for extra sparkle, all in warm 18ct yellow gold.

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18ct white gold engagement ring featuring a 0.40ct oval diamond in Fraser Hart's signature Orchid setting. Oval Diamond Orchid Setting in White Gold - 0.40ct

A more delicate option with sculptural detail. Soft petal claws and white gold give this one an understated charm.

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Oval vs Round: What’s the Difference?

Oval and round are both timeless, but they give a different look on the hand. Oval feels more elongated and can look larger face-up, while round is the classic benchmark for balanced sparkle.

  • Choose oval if you want: a lengthening effect, a slightly more distinctive shape, and a diamond that often looks bigger for its weight.
  • Choose round if you want: the most traditional look, easy comparisons across stones, and a universally classic silhouette.

Still deciding? Your hand shape and setting choice can make the decision obvious once you try both — the engagement ring guide is a great place to start, and our oval vs round comparison guide will help you narrow it down.

Oval engagement rings suit a wide range of styles — from sleek solitaires to sparkle-heavy halos.

If you already know the look you want, start with our oval edit.

If you’re still deciding, browse all engagement rings and compare shapes side-by-side.