When it comes to choosing the perfect engagement ring, diamond shape is more than just a design detail—it defines the entire personality of the ring. Two of the most loved and timeless options are the oval diamond and the round brilliant cut diamond. Both are elegant, radiant, and deeply symbolic, but they offer very different visual and stylistic experiences.
At Aurika Gems, we believe your engagement ring should reflect your unique love story. So, let’s explore the differences between oval vs. round diamond rings, and help you discover which shape suits you best.
Round Diamond Rings: Timeless Elegance & Brilliant Sparkle
The round brilliant cut is the most popular diamond shape in the world—and for good reason.
Classic Appeal
Round diamonds have been the go-to choice for generations. Their symmetry and perfectly circular outline exude a timeless charm that suits both minimalist and ornate designs.
Maximum Brilliance
Thanks to its 58 facets and optimal proportions, the round diamond offers the most brilliance and fire of all shapes. It reflects light beautifully, making it ideal for those who want a ring that sparkles intensely.
Universally Flattering
Round diamonds complement all hand shapes and ring styles. Whether set in a solitaire or halo, this shape always looks balanced and refined.
Ideal for the Traditional Bride
If you’re someone who values classic aesthetics and prefers tried-and-tested designs, a round diamond engagement ring is a perfect fit.
Oval Diamond Rings: Modern Romance with a Vintage Twist
The oval diamond is a brilliant alternative to the round, offering its own unique set of benefits and a slightly more contemporary feel.
Elongated Elegance
The oval’s stretched silhouette visually elongates the fingers, making hands appear more slender and graceful. This makes it a popular choice among women who prefer delicate or feminine jewelry.
Bigger Look per Carat
Due to its shape, an oval diamond has a larger surface area than a round diamond of the same carat weight—giving the illusion of a bigger stone without a higher price tag.
Soft, Romantic Vibe
The oval is a blend of the traditional and the modern. It carries a vintage-inspired softness with a clean, contemporary flair—ideal for brides who love understated uniqueness.
Great Value
Oval diamonds typically cost less per carat than round diamonds, making them a smart yet stylish option for those looking for more sparkle without stretching the budget.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Oval vs. Round Diamond Engagement Rings
| Feature | Oval Diamond | Round Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Elongated, oval | Perfectly round |
| Sparkle | Excellent (slightly less than round) | Highest brilliance and fire |
| Visual Size | Looks larger per carat | True to carat weight |
| Price | More affordable per carat | Generally higher cost |
| Style Aesthetic | Soft, romantic, unique | Timeless, classic |
| Finger Flattering | Elongates and slims fingers | Universally flattering |
| Availability | Increasingly popular in custom rings | Widely available in all collections |
Which One Suits Your Personal Style?
Choose a Round Diamond Ring if:
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You prefer a classic or traditional look
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Maximum sparkle is your top priority
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You want a timeless design that will never go out of style
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You don’t mind spending a bit more for premium brilliance
Choose an Oval Diamond Ring if:
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You want a more modern, fashionable, or vintage-inspired ring
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You prefer a stone that looks larger than its carat weight
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You like a ring that elongates and flatters your fingers
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You're looking for better value per carat
Best Settings for Each Diamond Shape
At Aurika Gems, we offer a wide variety of stunning ring settings for both oval and round diamonds:
Round Diamond Ring Settings:
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Classic Solitaire – simple, elegant, and timeless
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Halo Setting – enhances the center diamond with added sparkle
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Vintage Filigree – intricate and romantic, ideal for heirloom-style pieces
Oval Diamond Ring Settings:
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Hidden Halo – a trending favourite that adds subtle brilliance
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Three-Stone – often flanked by tapered or pear-shaped diamonds
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East-West Setting – a modern twist where the oval lies horizontally
What UK Brides Are Choosing in 2025
In the UK, round diamonds continue to hold their crown in traditional proposals. However, oval diamond engagement rings are rapidly gaining popularity—especially among millennial and Gen Z buyers looking for a unique twist on tradition.
Many UK brides are also exploring lab-grown oval diamonds for their ethical sourcing, affordability, and visual appeal. At Aurika Gems, we offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds in oval and round shapes—each certified and crafted with precision.
FAQs
Which diamond shape looks biggest on the finger?
Oval diamonds appear larger per carat than round due to their elongated shape and surface area.
Is an oval diamond more affordable than a round one?
Yes. Oval diamonds generally cost 10–20% less per carat than round diamonds of similar quality.
Does a round diamond sparkle more than an oval?
Yes. Round brilliant cuts are optimized for maximum light return, giving them superior sparkle. Oval diamonds still offer excellent brilliance, just slightly less.
Which shape is more durable?
Both are highly durable when set properly in a protective setting. Round diamonds have less chance of chipping due to no sharp edges, while ovals benefit from well-designed prongs.
Final Thoughts
So—Oval or Round? The best engagement ring shape depends on your personal style, budget, and how you want the ring to reflect your story.
Both oval and round diamond engagement rings are beautiful, timeless, and meaningful. Whether you’re drawn to the classic sparkle of a round cut or the graceful elegance of an oval, you’ll find a forever piece at Aurika Gems that speaks to your heart.
Explore Our Collection
Discover ethically sourced, handcrafted oval and round diamond engagement rings at Aurika Gems.
Designed with love. Worn for a lifetime.
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