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An engagement ring is one of the most significant purchases a couple will ever make, symbolising love, commitment, and the start of a lifelong journey. Among the many styles of engagement rings available, oval engagement rings have grown in popularity due to their unique elegance and timeless appeal. More and more people are opting for this shape as it offers something distinct yet classic, making it a fitting choice for modern proposals. The elongated design not only makes the diamond appear larger, but it also enhances the overall beauty of the wearer’s hand, adding that extra touch of sophistication. But what exactly makes oval engagement rings stand out from the rest? And why are they becoming such a popular choice in 2024?
Traditional cuts like round and princess shapes have long dominated the world of engagement rings. However, in recent years, oval engagement rings have seen a surge in interest. The reason? Their ability to offer something different while still maintaining a sense of classic charm. Oval-shaped diamonds bring a more elongated look, which can make fingers appear slimmer and more graceful. This shape also provides a greater surface area, which often gives the illusion of a larger diamond without the added cost.
Many find that oval rings blend classic engagement ring styles with a fresh, modern twist. Unlike the sharp angles of emerald or princess cuts, the smooth curves of the oval offer a soft, romantic vibe that complements a range of styles and settings. The oval shape’s versatility also makes it easy to customise, allowing for endless possibilities with band designs, diamond placement, and other unique touches.
A fun fact about oval diamonds: The oval cut dates back to the late 1950s, and it was created by Russian-born diamond cutter Lazare Kaplan. His goal was to create a diamond cut that maximised brilliance while using stones that might otherwise have been discarded due to imperfections. This innovation turned out to be a massive success, and the oval cut has been adored ever since.
One of the standout features of an oval diamond sparkle is its ability to reflect light beautifully. Due to the way the diamond is cut, the oval shape retains much of the brilliance of a round-cut diamond while adding its own unique flair. The elongated design allows light to travel through the stone in such a way that it maximises the fire and brilliance of the diamond.
The secret behind this lies in the “bow-tie” effect, a phenomenon seen in many oval and fancy-shaped diamonds. The bow-tie refers to a subtle darkening in the centre of the stone, which, when cut correctly, enhances the overall sparkle and adds depth to the diamond. While some may view this as a flaw, many experts argue that a well-cut oval diamond uses the bow-tie to create a striking contrast that adds to its beauty.
In fact, modern bridal jewellery trends continue to favour the oval diamond for its radiant sparkle and the added touch of individuality it provides. Oval diamonds, when set correctly, can exude the kind of brilliance that rivals any other cut, making them the perfect choice for those who want their engagement ring to truly shine.
One of the key reasons people choose oval engagement rings is their flattering effect on the wearer’s hand. The elongated shape creates an illusion that makes fingers look slimmer and more elegant. This effect is particularly pronounced when paired with a thin or delicate band, which further accentuates the length of the fingers and draws attention to the central diamond.
Unlike round or square cuts, the oval’s elongation can work wonders for a wide range of hand shapes. Whether someone has long fingers or shorter ones, the oval diamond has a way of complementing their hand in a unique way. The versatility of the oval shape allows for various band styles, from sleek and modern to vintage-inspired, ensuring that the ring not only looks beautiful but also feels personal.
Another key benefit of the elegant engagement ring options available with oval cuts is that they offer a balanced combination of size and shape. The oval diamond often appears larger than it is due to its surface area, meaning you get more visual impact without needing to upgrade to a higher carat weight.
When selecting an oval engagement ring, choosing the right setting is crucial to showcase the diamond’s full potential. The setting can either highlight the beauty of the stone or detract from it. One of the most popular settings for oval diamonds is the solitaire setting, which places the focus entirely on the diamond itself. The simplicity of the solitaire allows the diamond to be the star of the show, highlighting its brilliance and sparkle.
For those looking for a more intricate design, a halo setting can enhance the overall size and sparkle of the ring. By surrounding the oval diamond with smaller stones, a halo adds extra brilliance and can make the central diamond appear even larger. Other settings, like vintage-inspired or pavé bands, offer a more detailed look, perfect for those who want a bit more personality in their bespoke engagement rings.
Choosing the perfect setting also means considering the lifestyle of the wearer. Those with more active lifestyles may opt for a lower setting, where the diamond is set closer to the band, reducing the chance of snags or damage. Alternatively, a higher setting can give the diamond more height and prominence, making it stand out even more.
While diamonds are the traditional choice for engagement rings, more couples are exploring alternative gemstones for their oval engagement rings. Gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, and rubies can add a splash of colour and individuality to the ring, offering a break from the conventional.
Sapphires, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and stunning blue hues. A sapphire oval engagement ring combines the elegance of the oval cut with the rich colour of the gemstone, creating a unique piece of jewellery. Emeralds, with their deep green tones, offer a bold yet sophisticated option, while rubies bring a passionate red hue that symbolises love and commitment.
When choosing a gemstone for an oval ring, it’s important to consider factors like durability, colour, and symbolism. Gemstones like sapphires and emeralds rank high on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them ideal choices for daily wear. This ensures that the ring not only looks beautiful but will also stand the test of time, much like the love it represents.
Choosing an oval engagement ring requires careful consideration to ensure it stands the test of time. Durability is key when selecting any engagement ring, and the same applies to oval-shaped diamonds. One factor to consider is the cut quality. An oval diamond with poor symmetry or proportions will not only lack brilliance but may also be more prone to damage over time. When shopping for an oval ring, look for a diamond with excellent symmetry and a well-balanced length-to-width ratio, as this will help to preserve its structural integrity.
Another essential aspect to look out for is the diamond’s clarity and colour. Oval diamonds tend to show inclusions and blemishes more easily than other cuts, so it’s worth investing in a higher clarity grade. Similarly, colour is important—oval diamonds, especially in larger sizes, may show more colour than their round counterparts. Opting for a stone with a higher colour grade can ensure your ring maintains its brilliance for years to come.
The metal of the band is also a critical factor. Durable metals like platinum or 18k gold are popular choices, as they can withstand daily wear and tear without losing their shine. Additionally, if the wearer leads an active lifestyle, it’s worth considering a bezel or half-bezel setting, which offers more protection for the diamond while still showcasing its beauty. By paying attention to these details, you can ensure that your bespoke engagement ring remains as beautiful as the day you first wore it.
In 2024, engagement ring trends are favouring oval-shaped diamonds more than ever. There has been a noticeable shift towards rings that offer both timeless beauty and a modern edge, and oval rings fit that description perfectly. The shape appeals to brides seeking something elegant and understated yet still distinctive enough to make a lasting impression.
This surge in popularity can also be attributed to high-profile celebrities choosing oval engagement rings, creating buzz and inspiring new trends in the jewellery market. For instance, celebrities like Blake Lively and Hailey Bieber have helped bring the oval cut into the spotlight, leading many brides to consider this shape for its refined elegance and unique charm.
One of the main reasons oval engagement rings are trending in 2024 is their versatility. Whether set in a simple solitaire or surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds, the oval cut offers endless design possibilities. From classic engagement ring styles to more contemporary, avant-garde designs, the oval shape can be tailored to fit almost any aesthetic.
Additionally, the affordability of oval diamonds compared to round diamonds makes them an appealing option for couples who want to maximise the size and brilliance of their ring without breaking the bank. With all these factors combined, it’s no surprise that oval engagement rings are poised to remain a top choice for years to come.
Oval engagement rings bring together elegance, brilliance, and versatility, making them a standout choice for proposals in 2024 and beyond. Whether you’re drawn to the unique oval diamond rings for their flattering effect on the hand or their ability to reflect light beautifully, this style offers something truly special. Oval diamonds not only provide the appearance of a larger stone, but they also allow for endless customisation options, ensuring that every ring is as unique as the love it symbolises. From choosing the right setting to selecting a gemstone that suits your taste, oval engagement rings give couples the chance to create a personalised piece of jewellery that will last a lifetime. As trends continue to evolve, the oval diamond remains a popular and timeless choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their special moment.
We invite you to visit our showroom in the heart of London’s jewellery district. Our team of experts is here to help you find or design the perfect engagement ring, whether you’re looking for a timeless diamond solitaire or something completely unique.
Find Us at 15 Greville Street, Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8SQ.
