Why Oval-Cut Lab Diamonds Are the ‘It’ Engagement Ring of the Year
When you’re shopping for an engagement ring, you want a diamond that not only maximizes sparkle but also stands out for its beauty, size, and sustainability. It’s the perfect description of the oval-cut lab diamond, which is making waves in 2025 for all the right reasons.
With its larger-than-life look, flattering silhouette, and sustainable origins, the oval cut stands out in both style and value. It creates the illusion of a bigger diamond, sparkles beautifully, and looks exquisite in any setting. In this guide, we’ll explore why this elegant cut is the ‘It’ engagement ring you’ve been dreaming of and how you can find the one that’s meant for you.
Why We Love Oval-Cut Diamonds
While engagement ring trends shift with time, some styles are absolutely timeless, and the oval cut is one of them. Not only is it the best selling diamond cut at Keyzar, but its elongated shape has been embraced by celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Blake Lively as well as modern brides everywhere. Social media has also fueled the trend toward these diamonds, with engagement ring inspiration flooding Instagram and Pinterest. Paired with the affordability of lab-grown diamonds, this cut offers a luxurious look without the premium price tag.
Keyzar couple Shea and Josh Schmidt knew they wanted a ring that was both timeless and breathtaking, and The Lia was the perfect choice. Set with a 2.5-carat oval lab diamond, this stunning three-stone engagement ring captured everything they were looking for: exceptional sparkle, an elegant silhouette, and a meaningful, ethical choice. From the moment Shea slipped it on, she was in love with its brilliance and delicate design. The Lia’s refined setting and captivating oval diamond made it a dream come true, proving that the perfect ring is one that feels just as special as the love it represents.
Lab Diamonds: Exquisite and Ethical Luxury
So, what exactly is a lab-grown diamond? Unlike natural diamonds, which are formed over millions of years beneath the Earth’s surface, lab diamonds are created using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-growing process. The result is a diamond that is chemically, physically, and visually identical to a mined diamond, but with a more ethical and sustainable origin. Lab diamonds also tend to cost significantly less, allowing couples to choose larger, higher-quality stones for the same budget.
What Makes Oval-Cut Lab Diamonds So Popular?
Some engagement ring trends come and go, but the oval cut is proving its staying power. Here are three reasons why it continues to be a top (and timeless) choice.
Larger Appearance
One of the biggest draws of oval-cut diamonds is their ability to appear larger than other shapes of the same carat weight. Because of their elongated silhouette and spread-out surface area, oval diamonds take up more space on the finger. This means you can get a diamond that looks bigger without necessarily increasing the carat size.
The Ashley solitaire engagement ring has a slender band that makes an oval diamond appear even larger and more eye-catching. Its delicate claw prongs offer a barely-there look, allowing maximum light to enter the stone for incredible sparkle. Plus, the low-profile setting keeps the diamond close to the finger, combining comfort with an effortlessly sophisticated aesthetic. The result? A ring that feels both understated and undeniably stunning.
Exceptional Sparkle
Oval-cut diamonds have 58 brilliant facets that allow them to reflect light beautifully. Like round diamonds, they offer a balance of fiery brilliance and soft, romantic glow, making them ideal for those who want both sparkle and elegance.
With an oval-cut lab diamond at its center, The Penelope delivers next-level sparkle. Its thin band and pave-set accents draw even more attention to the center stone, amplifying its fire and shimmer. Plus, the hidden micro diamonds in the bridge add an extra layer of sparkle, catching the light with every movement. This design ensures that The Penelope doesn’t just shine: it mesmerizes.
Flattering on All Hands
The elongated shape of an oval diamond has a slimming effect on the fingers, making it a universally flattering choice. Whether you have petite hands or long fingers, this cut enhances the natural shape of your hand, making it a favorite among brides-to-be.
With an oval-cut lab diamond at its center, The Lindsey engagement ring flatters every hand. The elongated shape of the oval cut naturally creates a slimming effect on the finger, making it look longer and more graceful. Its hidden halo adds a touch of brilliance without overwhelming the design, while the marquise and round-cut diamonds along the band are pure luxury. Whether your fingers are slender, petite, or wide, The Lindsey is a universally flattering fit.
Pairs Beautifully with Many Settings
Oval-cut diamonds work well with a variety of engagement ring settings, from classic solitaires to intricate halos. Whether you love a modern, minimal design or something vintage-inspired, an oval diamond can adapt to your vision.
An oval-cut lab diamond transforms The Jasmine into a vintage-inspired masterpiece. The classic shape of the oval cut beautifully complements the intricate Art Deco details while milgrain accents and the delicate mix of oval and round frames create an air of old-world romance. The combination of vintage charm and modern brilliance makes this ring a piece destined to be treasured for generations.
Works Well with Different Band Styles
Because of their elongated shape, oval diamonds look stunning with slim, delicate bands, bold statement styles, and even stacked ring designs. Whether you prefer pavé accents, three-stone settings, vintage-style pieces, or a plain metal band, an oval diamond pairs seamlessly with any look.
With an oval-cut lab diamond at its heart, a pave engagement ring like The Pave Lexie radiates pure elegance and brilliance. The oval shape naturally reflects light beautifully, and when paired with the shimmering pave-set diamonds along the band, the result is a seamless flow of light that makes the entire ring glow.
The Benefits of Choosing a Lab-Grown Oval Diamond
Beyond their visual appeal, oval-cut lab diamonds come with significant practical advantages. Lab-grown diamonds have revolutionized the jewelry industry, offering the same chemical, optical, and physical properties as mined diamonds, without the higher price tag or ethical and financial concerns.
Better Value for Size
With lab-grown diamonds costing 50 to 70% less than natural diamonds of the same quality, buyers can afford a larger or higher-quality stone for the same budget. This makes it easier to prioritize features like cut, clarity, and color without breaking the bank.
For example, a 2-carat natural diamond with excellent cut, G color, and VS2 clarity might cost between $27,000 and $41,000. In contrast, a 2-carat lab-grown diamond with the same specifications could range from $1,500 to $4,600. That’s a difference of over 90%, so you’re getting the same stunning look and quality at a fraction of the price.
Sustainability Factor
Natural diamonds require extensive mining, which has a lasting environmental impact. Lab-created diamonds, on the other hand, are grown in controlled environments using advanced technology that reduces waste and resource consumption. For eco-conscious buyers, this makes lab-grown diamonds an ethical and responsible choice.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Oval-Cut Lab Diamond
While oval diamonds are stunning, selecting the right one requires a bit of attention to detail. Here’s what to look for.
Consider the Length-to-Width Ratio
The ideal length-to-width ratio for an oval diamond is typically between 1.35 and 1.50. A lower ratio creates a rounder oval, while a higher ratio gives it a more elongated shape. The choice comes down to personal preference and how you want the diamond to sit on your finger.
Check the 4C’s
A diamond’s beauty is defined by the 4 Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, and choosing the right balance ensures maximum brilliance.
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Cut is especially important for oval diamonds, as a poor cut can create a bowtie effect (a dark shadow in the center that reduces sparkle). A well-cut oval diamond minimizes this issue by allowing for even light reflection and fire.
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Color plays a key role, too; a balanced color grade lifts the stone’s vibrancy, while clarity ensures a flawless look free from visible inclusions.
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Finally, carat weight impacts the diamond’s overall presence, with oval cuts often appearing larger than other shapes of the same weight.
Prioritizing all four factors helps you find a diamond that’s as dazzling as your special day.
Conclusion
Oval-cut lab diamonds have rightfully earned their place as the ‘It’ engagement ring of the year. Their combination of size, brilliance, and elegance makes them a standout choice, while their versatility ensures they complement any style. Add in the affordability and sustainability of lab-grown diamonds, and it’s easy to see why modern couples are choosing this shape for their engagement rings.
If you’re looking for a ring that feels both timeless and contemporary, an oval-cut lab diamond might be the perfect choice. Explore our collection and find the perfect oval-cut lab diamond for your dream ring.
