Round vs Oval Diamonds: Shape Comparison

When it comes to the perfect engagement ring, details matter. You might think the shape of your centerpiece diamond ranks of lower importance makes little difference to the ring’s design -- especially when debating the difference between a round and an oval diamond, which are already similar to each other in nature. But when all eyes are drawn to your bride-to-be’s engagement ring, the first thing they’ll see is that big stunner of a diamond… and its shape. This guide is designed to help you decide between round and oval diamonds -- starting with generally understanding the difference between the two.

Brief Overview of Round Diamonds

Particular Concerns with Round Diamonds

Round diamonds are in high demand for good reason: they lend character and charm to your engagement ring. However, high demand results in high costs. Combined with a large amount of wasted material, round diamonds are one of the more expensive options when it comes to choosing a diamond shape.

Pros of Round Diamonds

Yet, sometimes it’s worth paying a little extra for something more special -- and round diamonds are the perfect example of that tenet in action. The faceting of round diamonds is the ideal for maximizing brilliance, meaning round diamonds sparkle brighter than many other shapes.

Round diamonds don’t tend to show much color either, thus hiding inclusions well. So, while you might pay more for the shape itself, you don’t necessarily need to splurge for the perfect colored diamond when you go for a round diamond.

And don’t forget the versatility of round diamonds: they can be set in almost every single setting, affording you more options for a unique, non-traditional ring -- and, of course, they’ll never go out of style!

Brief Overview of Oval Diamonds

Particular Concerns with Oval Diamonds

Unlike round diamonds, oval diamonds show more color in their ends, since they’re shallower. Buy the wrong colored oval diamond and you might find your ring suffering from the bow-tie effect. Plus, the aforementioned require a bit more decisiveness, since you need to know what length-to-width ratio you want before you buy.

Pros of Oval Diamonds

There’s nothing quite as elegant as an oval diamond when it comes to engagement rings! Oval diamonds elongate the shape of hands and fingers, adding an element of sophistication to an ordinary ring.

Like round diamonds, oval diamonds are also perennially stylish. No matter which you choose, you’re bound to have a classic ring your bride will love wearing for years to come.

Round vs. Oval Diamonds: The Similarities

Round and oval diamonds are both classic, sophisticated shapes that never go out of style. Depending on the length-to-width ratio of an oval diamond, the shapes themselves may be quite similar. If the cut is excellent, both have brilliant faceting and sparkle well -- so you really can’t go wrong with either shape!

Round vs. Oval Diamonds: The Differences

One of the most prominent differences between round and oval diamonds is the cost: oval diamonds cost a bit less for the same carat weight thanks to their ratio. Because of their shape, ovals may also look bigger at the same carat weight. However, while you might save initially on an oval diamond, ovals may require you to work closely with a gemologist due to the concerns with color in the ends, and particularly the bow-tie effect. Learn how to avoid diamond bow-ties here.

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